• Access the backcountry on horseback.trail image by michael langley from Fotolia.com
  
  Horseback riding across the United States provides an opportunity to see the country as the Native Indians and pioneers did in years gone by. Riding will open up new areas that vehicles cannot access or may even be prohibited from. Spending time trekking through dense forests, exploring rock cuts and balancing on precarious cliff trails allows you to see the land and the wildlife as never before.
  
  

Ranches

• Book at a guest, or dude, ranch and experience life with cowboys and horses far away from the rest of civilization. Some allow you to bring your own horse. Some of these ranches are working ranches. However, others are dedicated entirely to guests and have removed all traces of ranch life except the horses. Participate in horse or cattle drives and watch local rodeos. Many guest ranches have activities available that do not involve horses, including swimming, hiking and cycling.
  
  

Outfitters

• Bring your own horse or rent one from an outfitter. One of hundreds of outfitters across the United States will guide you across swamps, past bogs, over mountains and through forests then help you set up camp for the night. They usually take groups on overnight horseback trips as opposed to rides by the hour.
  
  

Progressive Riding Vacations

• Progressive riding vacations are a growing industry in the United States. They provide an opportunity to ride through the day from one location and to sleep in comfortable accommodations in a different location. Lunch is often eaten on the trail, while the other meals are served in the same location as your sleepover point.
  
  

Horse Camps

• Horse camps are strictly a bring-your-own horse affair. They provide an opportunity for different-size parties to camp out in the wilderness with their friends and horses. Most camps provide a place to drive in and park with designated areas for the humans and the horses. Camps can be primitive or they may include facilities such as showers and flush toilets. Trails are available in the vicinity for a chance to explore.
  
  

Horse Motels

• Horse motels and bale-and-breakfast places offer a place for you and your horse to spend a night or more. They are convenient if you are traveling to a distant destination or want to explore different areas around the country. Facilities vary widely from campsites to suites for people and stalls or paddocks for horses.
  
  

National Parks

• The United States has an abundance of national parks, many of which offer the chance to explore the backcountry by horseback. Each park has slightly different rules regarding visitors, though they often do not let you bring your own horse. Be sure to check during your planning process; otherwise, nearby outfitters are happy to take you on a tour.
  
  

Groups

• Some equestrian vacations provide women-only options. This is an opportunity for the women to seize the reins, so to speak, and explore the country with their girlfriends. There are many opportunities for children to attend kids-only camps. Other horse holidays have adult-only trips or trips for gay and lesbian riders. However, the largest percentage of horse riding vacations cater to mixed groups and are open to everyone.