Saddle Up in Mackinaw: Guided Horseback Rides from Maple Ridge Stables

VANDERBILT HORSE FIELD GUIDE

Saddle Up in Mackinaw: Guided Horseback Rides from Maple Ridge Stables

Guided 1‑hour, 90‑minute or 2‑hour trail rides through Mackinaw State Forest from Maple Ridge Stables—an expertly led, family‑friendly way to experience northern Michigan.

Saddle Up in Mackinaw: Guided Horseback Rides from Maple Ridge Stables.

Duration
1hour, 90 minute or 2 hour rides, you choose!
Location
Vanderbilt
Operator
Maple Ridge Stables
Category
Horse
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Experience the quiet of northern Michigan on a guided horseback ride through Mackinaw State Forest. Maple Ridge Stables pairs exceptional horses with experienced staff to deliver guided trail rides, lessons and summer camps—offerings tailored for all ages, including special lead-line or “wrangle” rides for young children.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Trails in Mackinaw State Forest

The rides follow trails through Mackinaw State Forest, showcasing northern Michigan scenery on guided outings suitable for a variety of durations.

THE HORSES

Exceptional mounts and experienced staff

Maple Ridge Stables advertises amazing horses and superior staff who lead guided trail rides, creating an outstanding riding experience.

THE FAMILY RIDE

Options for young riders

The operator offers lead line or “wrangle” rides for 6–8 year olds and can accommodate groups of up to 12 riders, making this a family‑friendly outing.

What the day feels like

What the ride feels like

Choose from 1‑hour, 90‑minute or 2‑hour guided rides that move at a pace set by the guide and the group, letting riders focus on the trail, the horses and the northern Michigan forest around them.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this ride suits

1
Families with young childrenWell suited — lead line or “wrangle” rides are available specifically for 6–8 year olds and the operator offers family-friendly options.
2
Beginner ridersA good match — guided rides with experienced staff and supervised group formats accommodate riders with varying experience.
3
Small groupsAppropriate — the operator can accommodate up to 12 riders per group, making it practical for private family or friend groups.
4
Campers & lesson seekersAlso a fit — Maple Ridge Stables provides horse riding summer camps and lessons in addition to guided trail rides.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Rides are offered in three lengths: 1 hour, 90 minutes or 2 hours; choose a duration when you reserve.

Meeting point

Meet at Maple Ridge Stables — 8097 Sunshine Trail, Vanderbilt, Michigan 49795.

Group size

Groups can be accommodated up to 12 riders per outing.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long are the rides?

Rides are offered in 1‑hour, 90‑minute or 2‑hour options.

Where do I meet for the ride?

Meet at Maple Ridge Stables, 8097 Sunshine Trail, Vanderbilt, Michigan 49795.

How large are riding groups?

The operator can accommodate up to 12 riders per group.

Are children allowed to ride?

Yes—lead line or “wrangle” rides are available for 6–8 year olds and the program is described as tailored for all ages.

Does Maple Ridge Stables offer lessons or camps?

Yes—Maple Ridge Stables provides horse riding summer camps and lessons in addition to guided trail rides.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Yes—make your reservation for a guided trail ride at Maple Ridge Stables.