Horseback Riding - Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center

The Howell Woods property offers over 15 miles of scenic roads through mature bottomland hardwood forest, open fallow and managed wildlife fields, loblolly and longleaf pine forest, mixed pine/hardwood forest, wet early successional and hardwood forest edge habitat, and a 3/4 mile stretch adjacent to the Neuse River.

All trails are maintained dirt or gravel single-lane roads. Some road surfaces are "crush and run" type gravel. Several water fords with larger stones are located on several of the major roads. There are also two wooden plank bridges on two of the major roads.

Riding trail access does not include the main trail system and will be closed during scheduled hunts. Unless otherwise posted, trail status for riding is:

September to April - Sunday through Tuesday

April to September - No day restriction (7 days a week)

Maps are located under the porch of the Learning Center building and include the length of each trail.

Requirements:

• Reservations are required for horseback riding at Howell Woods. 

• Reservations must be made in advance by filling out the form below or by calling the Learning Center at (919) 938-0115.

• Horseback riders must have a completed registration form and a current negative EIA test for all equines six months and older with them at all times while riding. These documents should be readily available for review by staff upon request.

• All horseback riders are highly encouraged to wear the appropriate safety headgear while on the property.

• All visitors should ensure that gates are closed behind them.

Rates:

• The fee for riding is $20 per person. Payment can be made by phone (card only), in-person, or placed in the return box (check or cash).

There are currently two water spigots located in the parking lot to water horses.

Howell Woods ELC does not have horses onsite; reservations are strictly for use of the trails.