Horseback Riding
You can go horseback riding at Lincoln Woods State Park in two ways: on a guided trail ride from Sunset Stables, the riding concession RI DEM lists for the park, or on your own horse on the park's bridle trails. DEM's history counts six miles of horse trails, and the trails west of Quinsnicket Road, called Zone A, are reserved for horses only. Sunset Stables is at 1 Twin River Road and runs trail rides six days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Wednesdays.
Riding at a Glance
Guided Trail Rides at Sunset Stables
DEM lists Sunset Stables as the park's concessionaire. On its own site, the stable says it offers trail rides through Lincoln Woods six days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Wednesdays, for riders aged eight and up. Rides are booked by phone at 401-722-3033. The stable also offers riding lessons, pony rides for young children and two summer camps, one in July and one in August. Check prices and availability with the stable; this site does not list them.
What to Know Before a Ride
Sunset Stables' own answers to common questions:
- No double riding. A young child cannot ride on your horse with you.
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for comfort in the saddle.
- Rain: call ahead if you need to reschedule; the stable notes the trees block most of the rain.
- Booking: by phone only, 401-722-3033.
Where the Stable Is
DEM's map puts the stable on the west side of the park, near Twin River Road and the Route 146 entrance. Use the Twin River Road entrance; the stable's address is 1 Twin River Road, Lincoln. See parking and directions.
Riding Your Own Horse: Zone A and Zone B
DEM's trail policy is the one rule every rider needs:
- Zone A, the trails west of Quinsnicket Road, is for equestrian use only.
- Zone B, the trails east of Quinsnicket Road, is multi-use and open to mountain bikes as well as horses and hikers.
DEM brought in the zones because of the growing use of the horse trails by both riders and mountain bikers, to protect the trails for horses, keep the public safe and reduce conflicts. State rules allow horses only in designated areas and on bridle trails unless DEM gives written permission, so keep horses on the bridle trails. The park map shows both zones.
Bringing a Trailer
DEM does not publish a horse-trailer lot for Lincoln Woods. Before you haul in, call the park office at (401) 723-7892 to ask where trailers may park and whether your group needs a Special Use Permit.
Sharing the Trails
- Hikers and bikers: in Zone B, slow down and speak to the rider as you approach.
- Riders: keep to the trails, clean up at trailheads and parking areas, and leave the park by sunset.
- Dogs: must be on a leash of six feet or less, which also keeps them clear of horses.
History on Horseback
Bridle trails have been part of Lincoln Woods since its early days: DEM's history lists bridle and hiking trails throughout the park and horseback riding among the recreation the park has offered for over a century.
More to Do
Riding pairs well with a picnic in one of the groves near the west entrance (permits from April to October; see picnic areas) or a walk round the Les Pawson Loop. For hiking in the multi-use zone, see hiking.
Horseback Riding FAQ
Can you go horseback riding at Lincoln Woods?
Yes. Sunset Stables, the riding concession DEM lists for the park, runs guided trail rides, and riders with their own horses can use six miles of bridle trails.
How do you book a trail ride at Lincoln Woods?
Call Sunset Stables at 401-722-3033. The stable runs rides six days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on Wednesdays.
How old do you have to be to ride at Sunset Stables?
Sunset Stables says trail rides are for riders aged eight and up, with no double riding. It offers pony rides for younger children.
Which trails at Lincoln Woods are horses only?
Zone A, the trails west of Quinsnicket Road. Zone B, east of the road, is shared with hikers and mountain bikers.