Horseback Riding

The park has 22 miles of bridle trails providing riders an unequaled view of Governor Dodge's rich and varied landscape. Bring your own horse, as the park does not provide rentals. Day-use parking is available, as well as an equestrian campground for overnight stays.

All riders 16 years and older must purchase and carry a state trail pass while using the designated bridle trails in the park. The trails are open annually from  May 1 to Nov. 15 unless posted otherwise or closed due to inclement weather. 

Interior Horse trail system

This system includes several trail segments totaling 6.7 miles. It connects the Trails End Horse Campground and horse day-use parking area. These trail segments allow horse riders the option of making several shorter loops from the campground or day-use areas by using part of the Meadow Valley Trail or one of these:

• Woodland Trail is a 1.5-mile trail segment on the northeast part of the Interior Trail System. This area of rolling hills takes riders in and out of wooded areas while passing by views of Twin Valley Lake. Follow the red trail markers.
• Old Orchard Pass is a 1.25-mile trail section that connects the Interior Trail System to the Outer Horse Trail. Take advantage of beautiful scenes of Twin Valley Lake and gain access to the horse day-use parking area. Follow the light green trail markers.

Outer horse trail

This is a 15.3-mile loop trail that winds its way through some of the most scenic and remote areas of the park. The access point is the Horse Day Use Parking Area near Hickory Ridge Group Camp. At the southeast corner of the park, there is a snowmobile access trail that connects with the 40-mile Military Ridge State Trail. For safety, this is a one-way, clockwise direction trail.

Uplands trail

This is a 2.5-mile loop trail that begins about 0.25 miles northeast of the park office. Venture through rolling hills as you pass through prairies, woods and near an agricultural field. This trail is a wonderful opportunity to snowshoe, hike or use the park with your pet in the winter. Follow the magenta trail markers.