For kids who say they love horses, a one-time horseback riding experience is a great way to find out if the reality of riding lives up to their fantasy. Saddle up at one of these Atlanta area stables where beginners can take the reins and learn about horse care.

Georgia Frontiers

Get the true cowboy experience on a Western-style one-hour trail ride through wooded trails. Riders must be age nine or older and under 220 pounds. Rides are tailored to experience level, and guides often share stories about historical events that happened along the route. Request a ride time at least 24 hours in advance; there isn’t a regular schedule.

The Details: 545 Ruff White Rd., Canton; 678-234-8852

Sunburst Stables

Sunburst Stables offers daily one- or two-hour guided trail rides into the Chattahoochee National Forest on mountain trails for any experience level. Riders ages seven and older get their own horse, but younger children double with a parent. On two-hour family adventure rides, trot a mountain path to the mini animal farm and enjoy an up-close visit, stop for fishing at a stocked pond, and take a snack break. Families can also see a blacksmith demonstration, ride a train through a gold mine cave, and check out the bird aviary.

The Details: 251 Sunburst Lane, Clarkesville; 706-947-7433

Linda’s Riding School

Take a family trail ride any day of the week, by appointment. Beginners and families with younger kids can reserve slots in Saturday Camp, where a trail ride is combined with instruction in bridling, saddling and grooming. Participants learn that there’s more to riding than what happens while on their horse!

The Details: 3475 Daniel Bridge Rd., Conyers; 770-922-0184

Serenbe Trailriding

See the rolling countryside of Serenbe on this one-hour trail ride. You can also book a package with a picnic lunch by the waterfall. Minimum age is 12, and the weight limit is 240. Available seven days a week by appointment.

The Details: 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Rd., Chattahoochee Hills; 770-463-2610

Barnsley Resort

Go on a guided horseback ride to see Barnsley Resort’s natural beauty and historic past on the one-hour experience. Young children and beginner may prefer to start with the Beginner Corral Rides & Horsemanship experience to learn the basics of riding. Kids can also paint horses or goats with non-toxic paints for an interactive experience with the animals.

The Details: 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd., Adairsville; 770-773-2457

Southern Cross Guest Ranch

Book a stay at this destination for a fun riding program that gives you time to learn and bond with your horse. Explore more than six miles of wooded trails and acres. Along with scheduled horseback riding, enjoy mingling with the horses in the pastures, great food and relaxation.

The Details: 1670 Bethany Church Rd., Madison; 706-342-8027

Gold City Corral & Carriage Company

Go on a beautiful one- or two-hour ride down forest trails. For the ultimate adventure, go on a half-day ride through the picturesque terrain. They also offer hay rides and carriage rides, and for a unique experience, enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride the includes BBQ, a bonfire, live entertainment and more.

The Details: 49 Forrest Hill Rd., Dahlonega; 706-867-9395

FDR State Park

This state park has different experiences for different levels, and they even offer an overnight adventure package. Families will enjoy meandering alongside the creek on the Creek Trail, or taking the scenic route and enjoy the view from the Overlook with the Mountain Overlook Trail. Other state parks offer horseback riding trails.

The Details: 1063 Group Camp Rd., Pine Mountain; 706-628-7463

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