Is prior riding experience necessary?

No prior experience is required. The guides will help beginners get comfortable on the horses.

Are children allowed to participate?

Yes, children aged 8 and older can join as long as they meet the weight and height requirements.

What happens in case of bad weather?

If severe weather occurs, rides may be rescheduled for another day or time.

Can I bring my own horse?

This ride uses horses provided by Shenandoah Riding Center only for safety and consistency.

How large is each private group?

Groups are limited to 6 riders to ensure a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Are refreshments provided on the ride?

Riders are encouraged to bring their own water; snacks are not provided but can be enjoyed before or after the ride.

Private Trail Ride Adventure in Galena, Illinois

Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of the Galena Territory on a private trail ride with Shenandoah Riding Center. This exclusive experience is designed just for your group, offering a personalized journey through scenic trails and gentle rolling hills. Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner, the skilled guides and well-trained horses ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for everyone. The ride is perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking a quiet connection with nature away from the usual crowds. As you traverse forest paths and open meadows, you’ll encounter breathtaking views and peaceful wildlife, creating moments you'll cherish long after the ride ends. Along the way, your guide shares insights about the local ecosystem and the history of the Galena area, enriching your adventure with unique stories and context. This private trail ride is not only a fun outdoor activity but also an opportunity to bond, relax, and build lasting memories together in one of Illinois’s most beautiful regions.

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.