Saddle the Back Forty: A One‑Hour Guided Ride Through Double JJ Resort, Rothbury

ROTHBURY HORSE FIELD GUIDE

Saddle the Back Forty: A One‑Hour Guided Ride Through Double JJ Resort, Rothbury

A supervised, one-hour guided horseback tour through Double JJ Resort’s Back Forty that pairs riders with a mount and covers basic riding and safety techniques—this guide explains arrival, booking, and what to expect.

Saddle the Back Forty: A One‑Hour Guided Ride Through Double JJ Resort, Rothbury.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Rothbury
Operator
Double JJ Resort
Category
Horse
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the open woods and rolling terrain of West Michigan on a one-hour guided horseback tour from Double JJ Resort in Rothbury. Riders of all skill levels are paired with a friendly horse and given essential riding and safety instruction before departing on a leisurely trail through some of the resort’s most beautiful terrain; arrive early to prepare and be briefed for the ride.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

West Michigan back‑country on horseback

The ride threads through the resort’s most scenic terrain, offering a compact, 60‑minute way to take in West Michigan’s natural setting without a full‑day commitment.

THE HORSES

Beginner‑friendly mounts and wrangler support

A wrangler assesses each rider, pairs you with a friendly horse, and reviews basic riding and safety techniques so even first‑time riders can enjoy the trail.

THE PRACTICALS

A concise, accessible format

The one‑hour guided structure is designed for beginners and busy schedules; booking is recommended to secure limited horse spots and arrive early to prepare.

What the day feels like

What the hour feels like

You check in at the barn, are matched to a mount by a wrangler, receive a brief on riding and safety, then set off at a leisurely walking pace for a guided loop through the resort’s terrain—an approachable, supervised hour designed for riders with no prior experience.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this ride suits — and when to reconsider.

1
Active families with young childrenChildren ages 5–7 can ride with additional wrangler ponying and must provide proof of age; children 12 and under require an adult on the same reservation, so families can participate with planning.
2
Beginner ridersThe basic beginner ride requires no prior experience and proceeds at a walking, leisurely pace after an introductory briefing—ideal for first‑time riders.
3
Participants needing accommodation for weightThere is a 265 lb weight limit; exceptions may be made if appropriate horses are available, but check with the operator in advance.
4
Late planners or walk‑upsThere are a limited number of horses per ride and online booking is highly recommended (at least 24 hours ahead); walk‑ins are possible but difficult to accommodate during peak season.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Arrival

Arrive at the Back Forty barn (3300 W Wilke Rd) 30 minutes before your ride. No refunds if you arrive late or miss the ride; you may reschedule. Look for the red and white 'Trail Rides' sign.

What to Bring

Wear closed‑toe, closed‑heel shoes or boots (no crocs). Avoid bags, rain ponchos, dresses, skirts, or flowy clothing. Children ages 5–7 must provide proof of age (a photo of the birth certificate can be emailed to [email protected]).

Booking & Availability

Book online in advance—booking 24 hours ahead is highly recommended and longer near holidays. Walk‑ins may be possible but are harder to fit during summer and peak times.

Cancellation & Refunds

You must cancel at least 24 hours in advance to receive a refund unless otherwise arranged with management.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the ride?

The guided trail ride lasts one hour.

Where do I meet for the ride?

Meet at the Double JJ Back Forty barn, 3300 W Wilke Rd, Rothbury, MI—look for the red and white 'Trail Rides' sign and arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear closed‑toe, closed‑heel shoes or boots (no crocs). Do not bring bags or wear flowy clothing or dresses; helmets are required for everyone under 18.

What are the age and weight rules?

Adults are 18+. Children ages 5–7 may ride with additional wrangler ponying and must provide proof of age; children 12 and under need an adult on the reservation. There is a 265 lb weight limit (exceptions possible if suitable horses are available).

Can I walk up and ride without a reservation?

Walk‑ins are possible but there are limited horses per ride—online booking is highly recommended, especially in summer and near holiday weekends.

What is the refund or cancellation policy?

You must cancel at least 24 hours in advance to receive a refund unless other arrangements are made with management.

Are phones allowed on the ride?

Phones are allowed for pictures only; no FaceTime or phone calls. If a phone is dropped, the ride will not stop and the guest is not allowed to dismount to retrieve it.