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Dane County Parks

Equestrian Trails

Equestrians have access to more than 26 miles of trails in five different parks, each with its own unique features and terrain. A Horse Trail Permit (daily or annual) is required for trail use with your horse and may be purchased online.

Please use good judgement and do not use the trails when they are wet or muddy as this may cause long lasting damage. For trail conditions, please visit the Closures & Trail Conditions webpage.

Equestrian trails are open seasonally - please see our Facility Opening and Closing Schedule webpage for opening and closing dates. Trails will remain open into the fall as long as weather conditions allow.

Equestrian Trails

Donald County Park

Donald County Park has the longest horse trail system in the park system, with multiple loops and a variety of scenery including woods, pine groves, restored prairies, and rock outcroppings. A solid day of riding is available, along with level trailer parking, and ample hitching rails. A rider mounting assistance platform is available. Map created by Friends of Donald County Park.

  • Mileage: 8.4 miles inside park, 17.5 miles outside park
  • Trail Map (PDF)
     

McCarthy Youth & Conservation County Park

McCarthy Youth & Conservation County Park is a perfect place to take kids for their first trail ride. Woods, field, meadow and wetland scenery, this system has multiple beginner level loops for a couple hours of riding.

Silverwood County Park

Enjoy fields and woods with very few rocks, easy trailer turnaround, and views of llamas at Silverwood County Park! Great for a half day or after-work ride.

Token Creek County Park

The trails at Token Creek County Park skirt various use areas and offer fairly flat and easy terrain, take your barefoot horses and enjoy a short jaunt. Suitable for novice riders.

 

Walking Iron County Park

Walking Iron County Park features flat, wide riding trails that border Black Earth Creek and leafy mixed hardwood forest, easy rig turnaround. A great place to take your driving pony.