FORT MCCOY HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Three Hours on Horseback Through the Cross Florida Greenway — A Private River Ride from Fort McCoy
A guided, three‑hour private trail ride that threads scenic Cross Florida Greenway trails and includes a one‑hour river stop with the option to swim from horseback.
Three Hours on Horseback Through the Cross Florida Greenway — A Private River Ride from Fort McCoy.
Adventure brief
Three Hours on Horseback Through the Cross Florida Greenway — A Private River Ride from Fort McCoy
Makin Tracks Trail Rides leads a three‑hour private outing from Fort McCoy that follows wooded trails through Florida’s Cross Florida Greenway to a river pause—an hour at the water where swimming on horseback is sometimes possible—before returning to the trailhead. The route and relaxed pace make it well suited to families and riders seeking a gentler, scenic ride rather than a fast trek.
At the edge of Florida’s Cross Florida Greenway, the 3 Hour River Ride - Private Ride offers a family-friendly way to trade pavement for sand, sweat and wide-open river views. Based in Fort McCoy, meeting at 15901 NE 137 Court Fort McCoy, FL. 32134, this guided horseback loop threads shaded pine flatwoods, oak hammocks and river frontage across three restorative hours. The outing is structured for ease and discovery: a one-hour trail ride out, a one-hour riverside stop that may include swimming on horseback, and a one-hour ride back. The operation advertises that '3 Hour River Rides are $160 per person' and that tandem riding is an option with children Ages 2 to 5; guides give a basic lesson at the trailhead so even first-time riders can feel secure before the clock starts. Riders meet at the farm, mount at the trailhead, and follow an experienced leader over terrain designed for family groups. What makes this ride stand out in the region is its river focus. Where many Florida trail rides hug scrubby uplands, this route delivers prolonged time on the river’s edge—shallow siphons of tannin-dark water framed by live oaks draped with Spanish moss and bands of saw palmetto. Birdlife is abundant; egrets, herons and kingfishers line the banks, and clandestine river otters are often spotted slipping through ripples. The ground itself is classic central Florida: sandy soils over ancient limestone, holding trails that warm under the sun and cool under canopy. Practical details are straightforward: rides are private and family-oriented, they accommodate very young children via tandems, and the outfitter asks riders to plan a little extra time for check-in even though appointments are scheduled for arrival times. The relaxed pace makes this a perfect half-day option for visitors based in nearby Ocala and the greater Marion County area who want an active outdoor slice of Florida’s backcountry without technical demands. Beyond the horses and the river stop, this experience connects riders to a larger landscape. The Cross Florida Greenway protects a corridor of water and woods that was once proposed for a canal; today it functions as one of the region’s most accessible wildlife corridors and trail networks. For families, couples or solo travelers seeking a low-stress but memorable way to feel the rhythm of Florida’s waterways from horseback, this private three-hour ride is an inviting, tangible way to explore the state’s quieter side. Reserve through the outfitter’s booking link; riders should bring closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and a water bottle. Note that guests are asked to call with questions about tandem options, size limits, and accessibility. This ride is best for people comfortable walking short distances and those seeking a mellow, scenic horseback outing. Bring insect repellent.
Route Schematic
Route schematic
The trip follows a simple three‑part sequence: trail out, river stop, trail back.
Farm — meeting point
Meet at Makin Tracks’ farm (15901 NE 137 Court, Fort McCoy). Staff provide a basic lesson and help you mount; horses are then moved to the trailhead before the ride begins.
Trail to the river
A one‑hour guided trail ride through the Cross Florida Greenway brings the group to the river.
River stop
A one‑hour stop at the river—this pause may include swimming on horseback—forms the centerpiece of the outing.
Return trail
A one‑hour ride returns the group to the trailhead and then back to the farm.
Children aged 2 and up are allowed; tandem riding is an option for ages 2–5—please contact the operator with any questions about young riders or specific needs.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Meet at the farm; get a short lesson and mounted when ready
Riders meet at the operator’s farm and the team helps with a basic lesson and mounting. Horses are then loaded up and led to the trailhead; your official ride time does not begin until you are actually riding, though you should plan a bit of extra time for check‑in and preparation.
A full hour at the river — possible swimming on horseback
The itinerary includes a one‑hour trail to the river, a one‑hour river stop during which swimming on horseback may occur, and a one‑hour ride back—making the water the central feature of the three‑hour loop.
Private rides and tandem options for very young riders
These private rides are promoted as family‑friendly: tandem riding is available for children ages 2 to 5, children as young as 2 are permitted, and the operator requests you call with any questions about young riders.
What the day feels like
How the three hours unfold
The outing is structured: an hour leads you out from the trailhead through Cross Florida Greenway terrain to the river, an hour is spent at the river—often the most memorable portion where swimming on horseback may be offered—and the final hour retraces the trail back. Guides handle the logistics and provide instruction so riders can focus on the landscape and the horses.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits—and who should check with the operator first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The experience is a three‑hour outing: one hour to the river, one hour at the river, and one hour back.
Arrive at Makin Tracks Trail Rides’ farm at 15901 NE 137 Court, Fort McCoy, FL 32134; the operator schedules arrival times so there’s no need to arrive early, though allow extra time for check‑in and mounting.
Staff provide a basic lesson and assistance mounting; horses are transported to the trailhead and the formal ride time begins once you are riding. When scheduling online, contact the operator if you do not receive the detour map.
The three‑hour River Ride is priced at $160 per person and is offered as a private ride; confirm booking details and any deposit requirements with the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the ride?
The ride is three hours total: one hour out, one hour at the river, and one hour back.
What is the price?
The 3 Hour River Ride is $160 per person.
Where do we meet?
Meet at Makin Tracks Trail Rides’ farm at 15901 NE 137 Court, Fort McCoy, FL 32134.
Can children participate?
Yes—children ages 2 and up may ride; tandem riding is an option for children ages 2 to 5. Call the operator with any questions about young riders.
Do I need riding experience?
No prior experience is required; guides give a basic lesson and help riders mount before the ride begins.
Will we be able to swim?
The itinerary includes a one‑hour river stop and may include swimming on horseback.
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: 2026-11-01T19:41:44.574Z
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.