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.
Adventure brief
Saddle the Back Forty: A One‑Hour Guided Ride Through Double JJ Resort, Rothbury
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.
Discover the beauty of West Michigan during a one-hour guided horseback ride at Double JJ Resort in Rothbury. This experience is designed for riders of all skill levels, making it a perfect outdoor adventure whether you’re a beginner or have some riding background. Your friendly horse partner will be matched to your experience, and the guide will take you through essential riding techniques to ensure confidence and safety throughout the ride. As you traverse gentle trails surrounded by Michigan’s forests, open fields, and rolling hills, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh air and impressive scenery. Arriving early allows time for a comfortable introduction to your horse and gear fitting, setting up an unforgettable journey. This private horseback tour offers a peaceful, personalized way to connect with nature and create lasting memories in a relaxed setting. Whether exploring on your own or with close friends or family, this ride is a wonderful way to experience Michigan’s outdoors with expert guidance and care.
Route Schematic
Route & Stops
From check‑in to the trail and back, key moments along the ride.
Back Forty check‑in
Meet at the Double JJ Back Forty barn—look for the red and white 'Trail Rides' sign—and arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled ride to prepare and complete check‑in.
Wrangler assessment & saddle‑up
A wrangler assesses skill level, pairs you with a suitable horse, and covers riding and safety techniques before departure.
One‑hour guided trail loop
A guided, one‑hour ride through the resort’s most beautiful terrain at an easy pace suitable for beginner riders.
Follow wrangler instructions at all times; the operator may adjust the ride or its pace for safety and group comfort.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
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.
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.
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.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
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.
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]).
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.
You must cancel at least 24 hours in advance to receive a refund unless otherwise arranged with management.
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.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-15T02:48:30.953Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.