Horseback Riding in New York City

When you mention the idea of horses and New York City to most people, they'll think either of police horses or the horse and carriage rides available at Central park. And while these two things are a definite part of New York City's image, many people don't realize how many options there are for learning and practicing the equestrian arts in New York City. The following are your horseback riding options within New York's five boroughs.

In Manhattan your main option is via Claremont Stables, which provides both riding lessons and horse rental for the bridle paths in Central Park (there are three, each over a mile; the longest is 1.65 miles). For those who already know how to ride, Claremont will rent you a horse for use in Central park any time during the park's operating hours (the park closes from 1am - 6am). Rates are $50 per hour and Claremont Stables is located at 175 West 89th Street. Reservations are required, so don't just show up without calling first. Their number is (212) 724-5100. Claremont is the oldest continuously operating stable in the United States; it is also primarily a riding school that offers both group and private lessons.

If you choose to ride in New York City's outer boroughs, you will have access to more stables and longer bridle paths.

In Queens' Forest Park there is a 4 mile bridle path, and horses are available from two stables. Lynn's Riding School which can be reached at (718) 261-7679 and D&D Stables: (718) 263-3500.

In the Bronx riding is available at two parks Pelham Bay Park and Van Cortlandt Park. At Pelham Bay Park horses are available from the Pelham Bit Stables/ Bronx Equestrian Center located at 9 Shore Road. Guided trail rides are $25/hour and there are one hour or two hour trails available. They also offer brief pony rides for a nominal fee for young children. Riding lessons in both English and Western styles are available starting at $35 for 30 minutes. Discounts kick in with longer lessons or when blocks of lessons are purchased in advance. This stable can be reached at (718) 885-0551.

At Van Cortlandt Park horses are available from the Riverdale Equestrian Centre at Broadway and West 254th Street. It is also easily accessible by subway for those in Manhattan. Their facility is spectacular with 4 outdoor riding rings and an Olympic-sized indoor arena. They also have access to the Van Cortlandt Park trails. On the weekends they're open from 9 - 5, but Tuesday - Friday they are open from 8am to 9am. They offer lessons for all ages and abilities and also have a therapeutic riding for the disabled. They can be reached at (718) 548-4848.

In Brooklyn riding is done in Prospect Park, which has a 3.5 mile-long bridle path. Horses are available from Kensington Stables at 51 Caton Place at East 8th. This location is also easily accessible by subway. Horses are available from 10am to sunset. The stable also offers lessons in a small indoor ring for beginners and in the park for more advanced riders. Pony rides are available for small children, and guided trail rides are also available. Prices start at $25 / hour for rentals and $25 / half-hour for lessons. The stable can be reached at (718) 972-4588. Kensington has a casual, urban vibe, but turns out great riders of all ages who do well in local competition. They also have some truly spectacular horses.

Finally, Staten Island has the widest variety of horseback riding terrain in New York City, but may be the least accessible for those not familiar with the borough. Riders should visit the Seguine Equestrian Center at 440 Seguine Avenue. They offer lessons, boarding, and information about trail rides on the island. And can be reached at (718) 317-1121.

The New York City Parks Department website, as well as teh website of many individual parks have extensive information on riding options available, as well as maps of some of the horseback riding trails. Rmember that different stables require different levels of experience to take a horse out on a trail ride. This is for your safety and the horse's. If you're not ready to ride out yet, consider lessons. While crossing car traffic with a horse can be extremely weird, it's worth it to ride in New York City's beautiful parks.