Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

No prior riding experience is required; Shenandoah Riding Center provides guidance for beginners.

Is the honey tasting included in the trip?

Yes, the honey tasting with expert B'Ann Dittmar is part of the 2-hour Hooves and Honey experience.

Can I bring children on this tour?

Participants must be at least 15 years old to join the ride and tasting.

Are snacks and drinks included?

The tour includes honey tasting; a charcuterie tray and bubbly can be added for an additional fee.

What happens in bad weather?

The event takes place rain or shine; riders should dress appropriately for conditions.

How do I book this experience?

Reservations can be made via the provided referral link to Shenandoah Riding Center’s booking platform.

Hooves and Honey: Shenandoah Riding Center Trail Ride | Guided Tour | Food Tour

Set within Illinois' charming Galena Territory, Shenandoah Riding Center offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience balancing rugged trail riding and refined tasting. The Hooves and Honey trip pairs a leisurely one-hour horseback journey through varied terrain—rolling hills, thickets of oak and hickory, and glimpses of limestone bluffs—with a distinctive honey tasting unlike any other. Galena Territory’s landscape is a patchwork of dense woodlands and open clearings, with native wildflowers dotting the trail edges, making the ride a memorable immersion in the Midwest’s natural foothills. After dismounting, guests transition from the natural world to a sensory adventure led by honey expert B'Ann Dittmar, who presents over 20 unique honey varieties. Each one reveals subtle regional nuances shaped by local flora such as clover, wildflower, and goldenrod. Complementing this tasting, optional charcuterie boards featuring Galena River Wine & Cheese products and a glass of bubbly offer a touch of Midwest culinary charm. Shenandoah Riding Center’s ability to link outdoor recreation with local craftsmanship sets it apart from typical trail ride offerings in the region. The low-impact, easy-paced ride is suitable for beginners and seasoned riders alike, all while spotlighting the distinctive flora and fauna that thrive here. This combination makes it a standout destination for visitors wanting to experience Galena beyond its historic downtown and vineyard tours. Whether you’re looking to develop a new appreciation for equestrian pursuits or sample artisan honeys in an unexpected setting, Hooves and Honey offers a refreshing balance of adventure and indulgence in a uniquely Midwestern setting.

About Shenandoah Riding Center

Shenandoah Riding Center, located in Galena, Illinois, is an equestrian facility offering trail rides, clinics, events, and short-term horse boarding. The center operates on well-maintained grounds in the Galena Territory and provides indoor and outdoor arenas, a renovated stall barn, individual tack lockers, and extensive trail access.

Guided trail rides include the Evening Experience Trail Ride that highlights rolling hills, scenic overlooks, and a concluding herd run. Seasonal family events such as the Memorial Day Pony Party and Horses & Hot Rods combine pony rides, games, concessions, and community-focused activities.

Educational opportunities include clinics and multi-day programs led by recognized clinicians. Examples are the 3-Day Beginner Cow Clinic with Matthew Jobe and horsemanship clinics by TJ Clibborn and Veronica Painter, covering liberty work, trick training, groundwork, and group trail exercises. Specialized events like Pony, Prosecco & Polaroids and the Harvest Trail Obstacle Course offer themed social and competitive experiences for adults and families.

Short-term horse boarding at Shenandoah Riding Center emphasizes comfort and convenience for horse owners, with heated viewing areas and access to arenas and forty miles of trails. The facility prioritizes horse welfare through structured amenities and supervised activities.

Visitors and riders can expect professional wranglers, structured programming, and clear safety practices. The center’s diverse calendar, range of services, and on-site amenities make it a reliable destination for riders of varying skill levels seeking recreational rides, instructional clinics, or family-friendly events. Seasonal scheduling and online booking options simplify planning, while staff maintain clear communication, guest support, and consistency.