The Best Horseback Riding Trails in Maryland: A Rider's Guide

The best horseback riding trails in Maryland reward riders with remarkable variety, because few states pack so many distinct landscapes into so little space. In a single afternoon's drive you can pass from Chesapeake tidewater to rolling farm country to forested mountain ridge.

This guide gives riders a clear, region-by-region overview of the state — and explains how to enjoy a Maryland trail even without a horse of your own.

Region 1: the coastal plain and the Chesapeake Bay

Southern and eastern Maryland, including our own Anne Arundel County, sit on the coastal plain. The terrain here is gentle — flat to softly rolling — with sandy soils and shady, mixed hardwood and pine woods.

This is the most forgiving riding country in the state, which makes it ideal for beginners, families and anyone who simply wants a calm, scenic ride. Wooded trails offer shade in summer and a soft, kind surface underfoot.

Region 2: the rolling Piedmont

Move toward central Maryland and the land rises into the Piedmont — a patchwork of rolling hills, pastures, woodlots and a deep, centuries-old equestrian heritage. This is classic Maryland horse country, dotted with farms and historic estates.

Piedmont trails wind through working agricultural land and public parks, offering longer rides with gentle climbs and lovely open views between the trees.

Region 3: the western mountains

Far western Maryland rises into forested ridges and broad state parks and state forests. Here the trails grow longer and more rugged, rewarding experienced riders and well-conditioned horses with real elevation and sweeping mountain views.

These trails are best suited to confident riders. They are a wonderful goal to work toward, but not the place for a first-ever ride.

Riding without a horse of your own

Most of Maryland's public trail networks assume you arrive with your own horse and trailer. For the many people who love the idea of riding but do not own a horse, that is where guided trail rides come in.

At Solitude Stables in Harwood, our guided trail rides provide the horse, the tack and an experienced guide on private wooded trails. It is the simplest way to experience a beautiful Maryland trail with zero barriers to entry.

Choosing your Maryland trail

The right Maryland trail depends on the rider. Beginners and families are best served by the gentle coastal plain; intermediate riders enjoy the rolling Piedmont; and seasoned riders can chase the mountain views out west.

Whatever your level, plan around the seasons, respect each site's rules, and ride courteously so the trails stay open for everyone.

Three landscapes, one small state — Maryland is a quietly extraordinary place to ride.

Start close to home

You do not have to drive to the mountains to find a memorable ride. Some of the best horseback riding trails in Maryland are the quiet, wooded ones right here in Anne Arundel County — and a guided ride is the gentlest way to discover them.