Outdoor Adventure

 

Horseback Riding in Custer and the Black Hills

Rugged terrain, maintained trails and miles and miles of open spaces make Custer and the Black Hills a great place to ride a horse. Close to town and throughout the hills you’ll find a variety of stables and outfitters who provide a variety of services from guided trail rides to overnight camping excursions.  

The Black Hills National Forest is a favorite among horseback riding enthusiast. Nearly all of the Forest Service roads and trails are open to horses. Two Forest Service horse camps (one just east of Custer) are great places to start your horseback adventure.  The South Dakota State Game, Fish and Parks department also operate horse camps on the Mickelson Trail and in Custer State Park. 

If you want a true Western adventure, consider staying at one of the working ranches in the Custer and Black Hills area. Many ranches in the area offer visitors an authentic working vacation. 

Things to Remember When Horseback Riding

• Many outfitters have a minimum age requirement for trail rides. Check with individual providers for rates and restrictions.

• To help reduce trail damage, don’t cut switchbacks and ride single file.

• Water horses downstream from campsites and in areas where the stream banks and water access are stable.

• Pack out what you pack in and avoid sensitive areas where there may be historical, archeological and palentological artifacts.

Horseback Outfitters Near Custer