Pamela RobertsWhenever I need to slow down and reconnect with the quieter side of Jacksonville, I almost always end up looking for a trail, a pasture, or a shoreline where I can spend time on horseback.
There’s something grounding about the rhythm of a horse’s gait and the mix of beaches, forests, and countryside that make riding here unforgettable.
Over time, I’ve explored beach tours, shady woodland trails, lesson barns, and working ranches, each offering something different. So if you want to try horseback riding, I know just where to go in Jacksonville for a thrilling experience!
1. Amelia Island Horseback Riding
– Image credit: ameliaislandhorsebackriding
Address: 4600 Peters Point Rd, Fernandina Beach
Contact Details: 904-753-1701, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday, 9:00 am – 12:00 am
- Sunday, 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Price: $$$
Amelia Island Horseback Riding is a family-operated business that has been offering beach rides since the early ‘90s, and there’s a reason people rave about it every year.
Riding along the shoreline with the Atlantic breeze at your back feels like something straight out of a postcard, especially during sunrise or sunset!
What stood out to me the most was that their guides are experienced, friendly, and great at making riders of different skill levels feel comfortable, especially someone like me, who is a total beginner.
Their horses are gentle, well-trained, and clearly loved, which makes the whole experience feel even more special.
| Pro tip: Sunrise rides fill up fast, especially on weekends, so book at least two weeks ahead during peak seasons (spring and summer months). |
2. HHH Ranch JAX
Address: 10102 Parman Road
Contact Details: (904) 779-2590, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Price: $$
I was drawn to HHH Ranch JAX because of its warm, family-friendly barn on the westside, where kids can grow into confident young riders.
Their Western youth lesson program is especially popular, helping children learn horsemanship, responsibility, and basic riding skills in a supportive environment.
The ranch also provides boarding with a genuine “home for your horse” atmosphere, which longtime boarders appreciate. It’s a great spot for anyone looking for lessons, arena rentals, or simply a welcoming barn community.
| Pro tip: Afternoon lessons tend to be quieter, which is great if you prefer a calmer, less busy riding session. |
3. Diamond D Ranch
– Image credit: 904happyhour
Address: 5903-1 Solomon Rd
Contact Details: (904) 289-9331
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Price: $$$
Diamond D Ranch is a working cattle ranch that feels like a hidden countryside retreat just 25 minutes from Downtown Jacksonville. With 500 acres to explore, their guided trail rides range from short outings to longer, more immersive rides.
The ranch also hosts educational programs, seasonal horse camps, and field trips that introduce guests to farming and livestock care.
I find the staff patient and knowledgeable, and the landscape, with its wide pastures, shady oak hammocks, and peaceful dirt trails, makes every ride feel serene and unhurried. It’s ideal for families, groups, and anyone who wants a deeper farm-style experience.
| Pro tip: The longer rides offer the best views of the ranch’s open landscape; go for the two-hour option if you can. |
4. Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail
– Image credit: thecoastaljax
Address: 850 N. Center Street
Operating hours: Sunrise to sundown
Price: Free
The Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is a 14.5-mile multi-use greenway that stretches along an old CSX railway corridor. It gives riders a peaceful, scenic route through pine flatwoods, wetlands, and rural landscapes.
That’s also an unpaved equestrian trail that runs parallel to the paved path, making it perfect for horseback riding away from crowds. The trail also connects to Camp Milton Historic Preserve, giving riders a chance to explore even more natural areas.
It’s a quiet, simple, and wonderfully refreshing place for riders who want open space without leaving Jacksonville.
| Pro tip: Start from the Halsema Road trailhead for easier trailer parking and access to the equestrian side. |
5. Julington-Durbin Preserve
– Image credit: caitie.86
Address: 13200 Bartram Park Blvd
Contact Details: (904) 630-2489
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:30 am – 7:00 pm
Price: Free
Julington-Durbin Preserve is a beautiful mix of sandhills, flatwoods, and extensive wetlands along the creeks that border the peninsula. Riders can explore miles of natural trails shaded by tall pines and oaks while spotting wildlife like gopher tortoises, deer, and wading birds.
The preserve offers a peaceful, untouched feel that makes it perfect for riders who want a scenic escape close to the city.
With its variety of habitats and wide, quiet paths, it’s especially appealing for those who enjoy nature study or slow, meditative rides through diverse landscapes.
| Pro tip: Trails can get sandy in drier months, so ride earlier in the day when temperatures are cooler for your horse’s comfort. |
6. Windemere Equestrian Center
– Image credit: windemere_equestrian_center
Address: 6900 Morse Avenue
Contact Details: (904) 777-5650
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Price: $$$
Windemere Equestrian Center is a well-rounded facility offering both English and Western riding with a strong focus on horsemanship and safety. The property includes two large arenas, a full course of fences, and multiple barns, making it ideal for riders ranging from beginners to show-level competitors.
Their trainers—Teresa Pennington, Joan Werner, and Brooke Merritt—are known for their expertise and patient approach.
The center is especially respected within the Appaloosa community but welcomes all breeds. If you or your child is interested in lessons, show prep, or discipline training, Windermere is an excellent choice.
| Pro tip: Ask about their youth programs; they’re structured, confidence-building, and ideal for young riders exploring competitive riding. |
7. Happy Trails Walking Horses
– Image credit: happytrailswalkinghorses
Address: 9600 Peters Point Road, Fernandina Beach
Contact Details: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Price: $$$
Happy Trails Walking Horses stood out because it offers gentle, relaxing rides along Amelia Island’s stunning beaches.
Owner Richard Allen, a Florida native and US Navy veteran, brings a warm, personal touch to every ride. His horses are smooth-gaited, calm, and perfect for both first-timers and returning riders.
The beach setting adds an unforgettable layer to the experience, making it great for families, couples, and anyone wanting a slow, scenic ride by the water. It’s a wonderful option if you want something peaceful and meaningful without a lot of pressure or complexity.
| Pro tip: Sunset rides are incredibly photogenic; bring a light jacket because the ocean breeze gets cooler in the evenings. |
8. The Ranch at Traders Hill
– Image credit: theranch_attradershill
Address: 18344 Avalon Dr., Hilliard
Contact Details: 904-316-8789, 904-735-5066
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Price: $$
Started by Dick and Brigitte Blaudow in 2019, The Ranch at Traders Hill has quickly become a go-to spot for equine recreation and family-friendly outdoor activities.
The property feels spacious and inviting, offering riding opportunities, trail access, and peaceful views of North Florida’s countryside.
The owners’ passion for horses and community shines through in the way the ranch is run with their helpful staff, well-kept grounds, and an overall warm atmosphere. It’s a great place for riders who appreciate a clean, well-managed facility with a neighborly feel.
| Pro tip: If you’re hauling your own horse, call ahead; the ranch staff is great about recommending quieter times for trail access. |
9. Haddenloch
– Image credit: judy3443
Address: 10840 Old Dixie Highway, Ponte Vedra
Contact Details: 904-829-1788, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Saturday, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Price: $$$
Haddenloch is a respected hunter/jumper training facility owned and operated by the mother-daughter team Kitty and Claire Lee. Located near Ponte Vedra Beach, the barn offers lessons for all levels, from beginners to riders working toward Grand Prix competition.
Claire’s professional experience, including years of national and international competition and training under Olympian Norman Dello Joio, gives the program a strong, disciplined foundation.
The atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, and focused on growth, making it a great option for riders who want structured training that is tailored to the rider’s abilities with knowledgeable instructors.
| Pro tip: If you’re new to hunter/jumper riding, ask about starting with a flatwork-focused lesson to build balance and confidence before jumping. |
