Ever wanted to pretend you are a cowboy riding through the Old West on your trusty steed? Now might be your chance, if you sign up for horseback trail riding at Myakka River Trail Rides. The property's 40 acres of sprawling fields and shaded trails, along with purebred, trained horses, will have you feeling like a certified cattle wrangler in no time. Choose from intro trail rides, riding time for intermediate trails or a sunset ride with friends.

Where

46405 Clay Gully Road, Myakka City

When

Rides take place daily at 8:30, 9 an 11 a.m. based on reservations received. The one-hour casual trail ride is perfect for beginners and costs $65 per person. The 45-minute trail ride with photo session is great for children and beginners and starts at $75 per person. If you're more advanced, try the one hour advanced walk and trot starting at $85.

If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, try the peaceful one-hour sunset ride at 5 p.m. for $145 per person.   

What to Bring

Horseback riding is a sport requiring the right gear. Closed-toed shoes are advised, as well as jeans or long pants to wear when riding. Helmets, saddles and stirrups are provided at the site. Be sure to bring along a backpack or cross-body bag to hold a phone, camera and maybe some water for the long, sunny trails.

What to Expect

When you first arrive at Myakka River Trail Rides, you will meet your trained guide and instructor, and he or she will introduce you to the horses. Beginners will be given a brief lesson on how to stop, go and navigate the horse's reins. Then, you and your horse will be led to an open pasture, to explore the wildlife, shady oak trees and water.

If you are more advanced, the walk-trot tours will take you to the area to practice faster trots and gallops in the arena before hitting the trails.

Myakka River Trail Rides also offers horseback riding lessons, horse boarding and allows you to sponsor one of the farm's many horses. Breeds include American paint horses, American Saddlebred gelding and one of the world's rarest breeds, Akhal-Teke horses, which originated in Persia 3,000 years ago. Each horse has a name and story the owner will be happy to share.

To book a ride, click here or call (941) 219-9399.