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Horse Tours of Gettysburg

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We are a Veteran family owned company and have been doing battlefield horseback tours since 2010. We started with five horses and borrowed saddles doing horseback tours, and over the years have expanded to carriage tours, car tours, and walking tours. We take great pride in delivering the best experience possible!

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Whether you're looking for a horseback, carriage, car, or walking tour, we have you covered.  While working with us, we want you to be completely happy with the experience. If you have questions about us, or our services, get in touch! We hope you continue to book with us for many years to come.   

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My favorite way to explore the battlefield is with a Gettysburg horseback tour. The slow pace, the smells, and the sounds of nature transport you back in time and let you experience history in a way that isn’t possible from inside a car.

And take it from a local who loves to ride, there are some great stables in the area that can provide a wonderful Gettysburg horse tour experience . If you don’t want to ride, you can check out a local carriage tour.

I’m happy to be able to say that I’ve seen no unethical or inhumane Gettysburg horseback tour companies. The horses are all well-treated and visitors can enjoy a unique tour no matter which one they choose.

However all of the Gettysburg stables offer different experiences so it’s best to choose one that is right for you. Here’s everything you need to know about experiencing this timeless method of transportation on a battlefield tour.

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Don’t have time to read the whole post? This Gettysburg Horseback Tour comes highly recommended with great reviews.

Before we dive into this post, I invite you to grab a copy of my TRAVEL PLANNER . This 16-page PDF guide helps you organize your trip , from what to pack, to preparing a budget and keeping a schedule.

Why Take A Gettysburg Horseback Tour?

The Gettysburg Battlefield is vast and can be toured any number of ways , but exploring Gettysburg by horseback lets you witness scenes from the past in a unique way.

No matter which of the Gettysburg horse tours you choose, this mode of travel lets you see the battlefield and learn about American history in a unique way.

Touring the Gettysburg battlefield by horseback is also a great way to enjoy nature and relax.

I love how the guide on may last horseback tour remained quiet so that we could hear the same sounds and see the same sights as they did in the 1860s. There was nothing but the singing of birds, the creaking of saddles, the jangling of bits and an occasional sneeze from a horse.

It gives you the feeling of being transported back in time and witnessing Gettysburg as it was back in 1863.

Another thing I love about Gettysburg battlefield tours on horseback is that you see things that you might just pass by in a car. For instance, you’ll ride by the historic barn of the Trostle Farm and see where a cannonball struck the brick wall.

Getting to enjoy a Gettysburg Horseback Tour is just one of the advantages of visiting Gettysburg during the summer months .

Gettysburg Battlefield Horseback Tours

The best Gettysburg horseback tour for you really depends on your personal preference, because the stables offer very different experiences.

As you will see, some of the tours offer licensed guides for those who want to learn more about the battle, and some offer leisurely rides to places on the battlefield that are seldom seen.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose a stable that offers standard tours or historical tours. All of the stables can accommodate first time riders.

Here is the basic information about Gettysburg horse riding venues to help you make a decision.

1. Keystone Trail Rides

This is the newest Gettysburg horse tour company and it offers a very different experience from all of the others.

They do not offer a licensed guide for their tours, but specialize in scenic horseback tours that cover some of the most historic and least-visited trails of the battlefield.

I can tell you from experience that this is true. I have lived in Gettysburg for 50 years and saw parts of the battlefield I have never seen!

Keystone Trail Rides is the only Gettysburg horse tour company to offer a 2-hour sunset ride, which costs $150 per person. They also offer a 3-hour morning ride for $175 per person.

The complementary ride that I went on is 4 hours and costs $225 per person. If you want to see and experience the battlefield the way they did in 1863, this unique private tour is for you.

Even though Keystone Trail Rides is a relatively new company, they have many positive tour reviews .

💡 Quick tip: Save money while exploring top Gettysburg attractions by booking with Viator or Get Your Guide .

Who Is This Ride Best For?

Keystone Trail Rides is best for those who who want to explore lesser seen parts of the battlefield and for horse enthusiasts who are accustomed to riding. The 4-hour ride will probably be too much for the casual visitor or those who have never ridden, but the shorter sunset ride is highly recommended for any visitor.

How I Rate This Ride

I rate Keystone Trail Rides as the best way to experience Gettysburg Civil War sites on horseback . This is not a licensed guided tour of the battle, but a relaxed horseback ride that takes you to parts of the battlefield that only about 1% of visitors get to see. The guide is very knowledgeable and can answer questions about the battle.

2. Hickory Hollow Farm

Hickory Hollow Farm is a family-run horseback trail riding company that has been in business for more than 30 years and was voted the #1 Gettysburg outdoor activity on Trip Advisor .

If you’re looking for detailed information about the battle, they can provide a Licensed Battlefield Guide to ride along, describe the battle and answer questions.

Prices start at $90 for a 1.5 hour tour and go up to $115 for a two-hour guided historic tour.  On the rides, you will start at the Confederate line of Pickett’s Charge and ride to the Union Line.

Among the landmarks you will see (depending on the ride) are: the iconic Virginia Monument, which features a statue of General Robert E. Lee; rows of cannons; the Spangler farm; The Pennsylvania Monument, Little Round Top , and the Trostle farm.

Rides start from McMillan Woods. (See below for directions ). You can book a tour online or call (717) 253-6300.

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Hickory Hollow Farm is great for families and for those who want to get a different perspective of the battlefield. The 1.5 and two-hour options are perfect for seeing some major historic sites and getting to experience the 1860s by horseback for a short period of time.

I rate Hickory Hollow Farm as one of the best family-friendly horseback tour in Gettysburg . They have a wide variety of horses and can make sure everyone feels comfortable on their horse.

3. Confederate Trails Of Gettysburg

Horse Tours of Gettysburg  is the collective name for  Confederate Trails of Gettysburg  and The  Victorian Carriage Company .

This family operated business can provide Licensed Battlefield Guided Horseback rides as well as  Horse drawn Carriage Tours  on the Gettysburg Battlefield or downtown Gettysburg.

Founded in 2010 by Rachel Stephens and her husband Doug, this business started with five horses and borrowed saddles. They now have a herd of 80+ horses spread over 4 local Gettysburg pastures.

They offer:

• 2 hour horseback Tour or Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour through the Gettysburg battlefield
• Ride the Battlefield with a LIVE Licensed Battlefield Guide. You will receive a headset with single ear buds.
• When a Guide is not available, you can still listen to a narrative recorded in studio by their Guide.

A 2-hour Gettysburg horseback tour costs $140 or slightly less for group rates. You will see the the Virginia Monument, the Spangler Farm, the Peach Orchard and Little Round Top off in the distance, riding from the Confederate line to the Union line.

Through the  Victorian Carriage Company , the business offers a variety of ways to see the history of the town and the battlefield by carriage, starting at $74 per person. These include a 30-minute Gettysburg Town Carriage Tour, a 1-hour Gettysburg Guided Town Carriage Tour or a 2-hour Licensed Battlefield Guided Carriage Tour.

You can purchase the tickets  on line  or at the Gettysburg Heritage Museum, 297 Steinwher Avenue, Gettysburg. Phone: 717-334-6245

Confederate Trails is great for larger groups and families who want a leisurely ride on the Gettysburg battlefield, as well as those who prefer to see the sites by carriage instead of horseback.

Confederate Trails is a great family-friendly Gettysburg horseback tour company and I rate it highly for offering historical Gettysburg tours for beginners or those who prefer not to ride but travel by carriage.

4. National Riding Stables

National Riding Stables is unique Gettysburg horseback tour company because it is also a 501(c)(3) non-profit rescue organization that saves distressed horses from abuse, neglect, and slaughter, and places them in retirement homes as trail or companion horses.

Their guided horseback tours of Gettysburg National Military Park on their gentle, well-trained rescue horses are a principle means of raising funds for the care of the other horses.

Their most popular tour is the 2-hour historical tour with a Licensed Battlefield Guide. All of their tours feature their rescued horses, who have been saved from abuse, neglect, and slaughter, and retrained for a second career as a trail horse.

Because they are located at Artillery Ridge Camping Resort , there is plenty of parking, a campground store for drinks and snacks and real bathrooms , not porta-potties.

A two-hour guided tour is $110 and and because it is a non-profit, $75 is tax deductible.

National Riding Stables offers horse sponsorships and adoptions on their website. You can book your tour online or call 717-334-5100.

Note : Their weight limit is 210 pounds instead of 250.

The National Riding Stables trail ride is best for those who have an interest in helping this non profit save neglected horses and those who want to hear about the battlefield from a Licensed Guide. Perfect for those with no riding experience and interest in the battle.

The National Riding Stables gets high marks for helping to rehabilitate neglected horses and is a great horseback riding tour for Gettysburg history buffs because all of their tours are led by licensed battlefield guides.

Horse Carriage Ride Tours Near Gettysburg

Silvershire farm horse carriage and wagon rides.

If you want to take a scenic ride in a carriage, you can book a tour at Silvershire Farm. Instead of the Gettysburg battlefield, this horse ride winds through the picturesque countryside and apple orchards of Adams County, just north of Gettysburg.

Local farmers produce more apples than anywhere in Pennsylvania, as well as other fruits and vegetables.

The carriages are pulled by Shire draft horses – the largest of all the draft animal breeds. Along the way you will also see a variety of animals, including a herd of Elk.

The journey is narrated with a history of the area during the Civil War Battle at Gettysburg, as well as that of the orchards and the history of the Shire horse.

Best Part? At the end of the ride at Silvershire Farm you get the unique experience of meeting all of the horses on the farm and feed them if you want.

(717) 778-5275 214 Clearview Road, Aspers, PA

This is a wonderful experience that offers a beautiful drive through scenic countryside. I’ve lived here all my life and learned a lot about the apple industry and history of the area.

Can You Tour Gettysburg On Horseback?

The answer is yes you can tour the Gettysburg Civil War battlefield by horseback! There are a number of businesses that offer Gettysburg horse tours on the actual battlefield, and others that offer carriage rides through the historic downtown area as well as the battlefield.

There’s no better way to connect with history and stories of the past than going on a Gettysburg horseback tour.

The use of horses for your transportation to explore this landmark battlefield is a great experience that you will never forget.

What Do You Need For A Gettysburg Horseback Tour?

Many people wonder if they need to have riding experience before touring Gettysburg on horseback. The answer is, “no.” The horses used by local stables are calm and slow, and are accustomed to riders who have never been on a horse.

The stables also offer out-riders who are experienced on the trail and can lend a helping hand if you experience any problems.

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It is important to keep some things in mind when around horses:

• Don’t yell, create unreasonable noise, or make sudden movements when near horses or mounted.
• When approaching a horse, always speak and alert the horse to your presence.
• Always mount from the left-hand side of the horse.
• Avoid ducking under the tie rope; you might cause the horse to pull back, and you’d be extremely vulnerable to injury if he did.
• Be mindful of a horse’s feet while you’re near him. Horses don’t realize how big they are and can accidentally step on your toes.

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Before you visit, you might want to find out more about the mistakes to avoid when visiting Gettysburg

How To Dress For A Gettysburg Horseback Tour

Wear comfortable clothes and don’t forget a hat to keep the sun off your face. You should also bring sunblock, and depending on the time of year, insect repellant can be a good idea too.

Shoes with heels (like cowboy boots) are best for riding, but any closed-toe shoe will do. (No open-toed shoes permitted).

Summers in Gettysburg are hot and humid, so make sure you are well hydrated before starting your ride, and have water available upon your return.

Are There Any Restrictions For A Gettysburg Horse Tour?

Each riding stable has its own rules, so check first. Here are some general rules and restrictions:

Age: Minimum age of a rider is 7 or 8 years old, depending on the stable. Weight: Maximum rider weight is usually 250 lbs. Helmets: Helmets are generally required for riders under 18 and are provided. Health: Reasonable good health and the ability to mount a horse. Attire: Opened-toed shoes are not allowed and long pants are recommended.

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How Do You Book A Gettysburg Horseback Tour?

First, check out the stables below that offer the opportunity to take a Gettysburg horseback tour. Then give them a call or book your ride through their website.

Keep in mind that tours on horseback are popular and the number of horses are limited. Make your plans as early as possible so you don’t miss out.

Gettysburg horse tours depend somewhat on the weather. Though some rides depart rain or shine, they won’t go out if the trails are extremely wet or in bad condition or if there are dangerous thunderstorms or winds.

Due to Pennsylvania law, you will be required to sign a standard Liability Release Form acknowledging the risk of horseback riding.

Gratuity for your tour guide is not included, but is always appreciated.

If the weather in the Gettysburg area has been wet prior to your ride, you may want to call ahead and find out the current status of the horse trails.

Some Tips About Your Gettysburg Horseback Tour

Most of the tours (except for the National Riding Stables), depart from the McMillan Woods Campground on the Gettysburg Battlefield because it provides a horse trailer parking area right on the battlefield.

You should plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. (See below for directions to McMillan Woods).

Parking is free, but leave enough time to find a parking space and to check in. If you’re visiting during a busy time of year, you will see groups of other riders as well.

Remember that this is an outdoor activity so you will be exposed to the day’s weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to tour the gettysburg battlefield.

To see and experience everything about the three-day battle would take days, but there are many different driving tours, audio tours and Licensed Battlefield Guide tours that you can do in a few hours. There are also walking tours of downtown as well as an abundance of Ghost Tours.

Can You Ride Your Own Horse On Gettysburg Battlefield?

Yes, you can ride your own horse in Gettysburg, the National Park Service has designated bridle trails that must be followed.

For visitors who bring their own horses to the park, limited trailer parking is available at McMillan Woods Youth Group Campground on West Confederate Avenue.

There is a designated section of the parking area in the campground for vehicles and trailers. On weekends during spring, summer and fall, the parking area for horse trailers can fill up quickly. Since parking is limited it is best to arrive early.

Once the lot is full, there are no other places for trailers to park on the battlefield.

Can I Stay Overnight With My Horse In Gettysburg?

Artillery Ridge Campground and Horse Park offers parking for horse trailers for a minimal fee. It is locat ed upon the very grounds of the Union Artillery Reserve and is within walking distance to Gettysburg Battlefield trails, museums, & monuments.  

In addition to horseback tours, they off RV sites, tent camping and cabins. T hey are also the only campground in Gettysburg with overnight accommodations for horses.

The Horse Park offers:

• A warm-up riding arena and round pen
• 10’x12′ covered box stalls
• Single, double, triple and quad horse open gate corrals
• 24’x32′ two horse board corrals

 The Campground & Horse Park is located at 610 Taneytown Road Gettysburg. Phone: 717-334-1288

Directions To McMillan Woods: McMillan Woods Youth campground is located in the park on West Confederate Avenue, which is accessible from West Middle Street (Rt. 116) in Gettysburg. West Confederate Avenue is a two-way road as far as the campground, but changes to one-way beyond (south of) it.

If you still have questions regarding directions NPS parking, call the park at (717) 334-1124.

If you don’t want to contact the stable directly, you can book a ride through Get Your Guide .

Nearby Gettysburg Horseback Trails

Catoctin National Park , Thurmont, MD, (301) 663-9288 Large Parking area – 5 trails totaling 30 miles.

Codorus State Park , Hanover, PA (717) 637-2816 40 trailer parking- 8 miles of trails.

Gifford Pinchot State Park , Lewisberry, PA (717) 292-4112 6 miles of riding trails.

Michaux State Forest , Fayetteville, PA (717) 352-2211 Large Parking area; call for information on length of trails.

Other Things to Do in Gettysburg

In addition to seeing the battlefield and town by horseback or carriage, there are other tours and things to do in Gettysburg.

One of the most popular activities after exploring museums is a Gettysburg Foodie Downtown Tour . Speaking of museums, you can skip the line with a ticket to the Gettysburg Heritage Center museum bought online.

And lots of people come to Gettysburg to see if they can see a ghost. Gettysburg has everything from a Family Friendly History and Haunts Ghost Tour to complete high-tech investigations like this Small Group Evening Ghost Investigation .

Where To Stay During Your Visit To Gettysburg

If you want to stay in downtown Gettysburg , you have lots of options.

I highly recommend the Gettysburg Hotel because of its great location and history.

Just a few blocks away is the Federal Pointe Inn , which is also a historic building (an old schoolhouse) that is close to stores and restaurants.

The 1863 Inn at Gettysburg is a little more budget friendly, and is located next to the Jennie Wade House . Close to everything, including shops, restaurants and hotels.

If you prefer being out in the country in a cabin or a cottage, there are a number of Gettysburg campgrounds that provide both.

If you enjoy staying in historic Bed and Breakfasts , Gettysburg has plenty to choose from.

Planning Your Trip To Gettysburg

🛌 Find the perfect accommodation with Booking.com . From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, they have a room for every preference, including pets and pools. 🎡 Discover the best tours and activities with Viator or Get Your Guide . Explore iconic landmarks, take guided tours and immerse yourself in the history and vibrant culture of Gettysburg. 🚗 Rent a car with Discover Cars and enjoy the freedom to explore the town at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, explore the countryside and make the most of your trip. ✈️   Need a flight? Check FareDrop for the best deals.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Author and Travel Blogger

Jessica James is an award-winning historical fiction author and life-long Gettysburg resident who loves sharing her passions for history and travel. She enjoys exploring the back roads of the USA and uncovering stories about unique destinations, cultures and almost-forgotten history.

One Comment

Ms. James: My wife and I own an operate Silvershire Farm in Aspers, PA. We do Horse-drawn carriage rides through the orchards and countryside on our farm. We are inquiring to see what we would have to do to get included on your website. We would be more than happy to have you come for a ride with us to see what we have to offer. If you check out our reviews on google you will see what people have had to say about us. There are lots of photos that people have included. You can also go on our website and see what we have to offer. Are website is silvershirefarm.com. We are also listed with Destination Gettysburg as well as TripAdvisor and Yelp. Thank You for your consideration in at least reading this. Bill and Bobbie Kane Silvershire Farm

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Best Gettysburg Horse Tours: Saddle Up for a Bucket List Battlefield Adventure

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is steeped in history and is known for its pivotal role in the American Civil War. One of the best ways to experience the history of Gettysburg is through one of the Gettysburg horse tours . Imagine navigating Gettysburg and the Battlefields on horseback, just like those who lived and fought here during the 1863 battle.

Battlefields of Gettysburg horse tours allow visitors to travel through the fields and see historic landmarks, monuments, and memorials. It’s a unique and immersive way to learn about the history of Gettysburg without having to navigate on foot or by car.

Best Gettysburg Battlefield Horseback Tour

This guided horseback tour of the Gettysburg Battlefields. Meet at the designated spot, saddle up, and go! BOOK HERE!

Best Gettysburg Battlefield Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

This small-group carriage tour is entertaining and informative. Enjoy the slow-paced adventure with plenty of stops along the way. BOOK HERE!

What Are The Best Gettysburg Horseback Tours?

 Gettysburg offers a range of tours that cater to different preferences, whether you want to explore on your own horse or in a horse-drawn carriage. Tours are available for both experiences!

Trail rides, on the other hand, are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural landscapes surrounding Gettysburg, a little further away from the busier points of interest. These tours cater to riders of all experience levels and provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a unique way.

Prices for trail rides vary depending on the length of the activity. Visitors can choose from a variety of trail lengths, from a simple one-hour ride to an all-day excursion.

Battlefield tours are an excellent way to learn about the events that took place during the three-day battle of Gettysburg. These tours offer visitors a chance to ride through historic fields and trenches while experienced guides provide captivating historical narratives. Licensed battlefield guides lead these tours, providing unique and entertaining historical perspectives.

For visitors seeking a more leisurely experience, carriage rides provide yet another unique opportunity to enjoy the town’s architecture and landscapes. Carriage rides gently roll through the streets and battlefield sights while your guide fills you in on the stories of each location.

No matter which tour you choose, the picturesque scenery of Gettysburg and the beauty of the horses make these tours a must-do and a unique Gettysburg experience.

Gettysburg Battlefield By Horseback

Exploring the Gettysburg Battlefields on horseback provides a unique perspective on the historical site’s monumental events. Touring on horseback provides riders with a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the battlefield while taking in the stunning panoramic views. Riding through the battlefields affords riders a sense of admiration for those who sacrificed so much during the war.

Be sure to book your horseback tour ahead of time , as tour dates do fill up, sometimes weeks ahead of time during the summer months.

The most popular horseback tour routes typically traverse some of the most important landmarks and historical sites. Many tours will take riders through the Taneytown Road, which was one of the primary axes of the battle.

Visitors may have the opportunity to see many sites along the way, either up close or at a distance. Check out both the Spangler Farm and Trostle Farm. Along the way, you’ll have views of both Little Round Top and the Peach Orchard, in addition to all the monuments and memorials dedicated to various military regiments.

On horseback, you’ll get to see parts of the battlefield that are not as easily explored on foot or by car. Plus, you’ll learn and appreciate more of the historical intricacies with your tour guide’s storytelling along the way.

There are various types of tours and packages available, depending on the preferences and needs of riders. Tour operators offer a range of options, from private tours to customizable tours for larger groups. These tours cater to riders of all levels and ages, with some offering experiences suitable for children as young as eight. 

Click here to check availability and book your Gettysburg Battlefield Horseback Tour!

To ensure the safety of riders, tour operators typically enforce certain guidelines, including minimum age requirements, restrictions on open-toed shoes, and weight limits. Riders must typically weigh no more than 250 pounds, and helmets are often required, especially for those under 18. Some operators provide riding boots and helmets as part of their packages.

The well-trained horses used by tour companies are meticulously cared for to ensure riders have a safe and enjoyable experience. Companies often provide comprehensive information about their horses’ upkeep and care, including details on feeding and grooming habits. The horses used for tours are chosen carefully to ensure they are suitable for riders of all levels. They are trained to be calm and gentle, and especially good with children.

Gettysburg Battlefield by Horse-Drawn Carriage

The option to explore the Gettysburg Battlefield by horse-drawn carriage offers visitors a unique and relaxed touring experience. This leisurely pace allows riders to take in the history and beauty of the area in a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere.

This horse-drawn carriage tour is perfect for those who want to enjoy an open-air horse tour from the safety of a cart driven by a professional, rather than being responsible for your own horse, as is the case on a guided horseback tour!

These tours typically last around 2 hours and are available for small groups. The carriages have seats available for up to 10 guests at a time.

The Licensed Battlefield Guide tour takes visitors through the historical landmarks and sites of the battlefield with a trained and knowledgeable guide. This informative tour offers a detailed and educational explanation of the events surrounding the battle.

Click here to check availability and book your Gettysburg Battlefield Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour!

Traveling by horse-drawn carriage is not only a unique touring option but offers a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. The leisurely pace of the carriage allows visitors to fully appreciate the landscape, absorb the history of the area, and snap photos, making it an ideal option for those looking for a tranquil and educational experience.

Scenic Trail Rides Around Gettysburg on Horseback

Gettysburg is not only well-known for its rich history but also for its stunning natural scenery. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the area is by taking a scenic trail ride on horseback. There are many options available for visitors looking to explore the area in this way.

Hickory Hollow Farm , a local company, offers guided horseback tours that take visitors through some of the area’s most beautiful trails. During the tour, riders will enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape while enjoying peaceful natural settings.

In addition to Hickory Hollow Farm, there are also several nearby destinations for a scenic ride, such as Gifford Pinchot State Park and Michaux State Forest. Visitors looking for a more secluded and picturesque ride can explore these beautiful parks on horseback. With miles of designated horse trails, riders will have the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region up close, while enjoying a peaceful and relaxing ride.

When selecting a provider for a guided trail ride, it’s important to consider what type of ride you’re looking for. Some companies offer leisurely horseback rides, while others offer more adventurous trail rides. Be sure to do research on the different companies and their offerings to find the right fit for your needs.

What Do You Need to Bring For A Gettysburg Horse Tour?

If you’re planning a Gettysburg horse tour, it’s important to come prepared. Depending on the type of tour you choose, whether it’s a horseback ride, carriage tour, or trail ride, certain items may be of greater importance than others.

For a horseback ride, proper footwear is essential. Closed-toe shoes with a low heel are recommended to ensure a secure footing in the stirrups. Loose-fitting clothing should be avoided as it may get caught on the saddle or other equipment. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

For a carriage tour, comfortable clothing is recommended. Depending on the weather, you may want to bring a light jacket or rain gear. While the carriages are covered, you can get out and explore at stops along the way. Since you won’t be on horseback, there are no specific footwear requirements, but comfortable shoes are always a good idea.

For a trail ride, dress in layers to be prepared for any weather conditions. Long pants are especially recommended to protect your legs from brush and other hazards along the trail. Along with proper footwear, you may also want to bring insect repellent and a small first aid kit.

Regardless of the type of tour you choose, be sure to check with the tour company beforehand for any specific recommendations or requirements. Proper footwear and clothing are essential for a more enjoyable ride for both the horse and rider in any given weather condition.

Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of the parks on horseback or enjoy a leisurely ride in a carriage, come prepared with the necessary items to make your Gettysburg horse tour a memorable one, in a good way!

How To Dress For A Horse Tour of Gettysburg

When planning to go on a horse tour of Gettysburg, it’s important to consider the weather conditions. Horseback riding tours are available in all kinds of weather, so dressing properly is crucial.

For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, opt for long pants, jeans or leggings, and a comfortable shirt. A hat is also highly recommended to protect yourself from the sun and keep you cool during the hotter months. Tours travel through open fields, and shade is not always available.

Additionally, it’s important to wear closed-toe shoes or boots to ensure proper footing in the stirrups and protect your feet from any potential hazards along the trail. Open-toed shoes are not permitted on horseback tours.

If you’re visiting Gettysburg for these tours during the cooler seasons, remember to bring a jacket or sweater to stay warm during the tour. Keep in mind that weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to be prepared for any changes in temperature.

Gettysburg Horse Tour Guidelines

When taking a horse tour of Gettysburg, it’s important to prioritize safety for everyone, including riders, horses, and other park visitors. Here are some guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

Weight Limits and Restrictions : Most horse tours have weight limits, so be sure to check with the tour operator before booking your ride. In general, weight limits range from 225-250 pounds. It’s important to be honest about your weight on your tour registration so that a horse is available for you when you arrive. If you exceed the weight limit, it’s best to consider alternate activities.

Appropriate Clothing and Footwear : Choose comfortable pants and a shirt that allows for easy movement. Closed-toe shoes or boots with a heel are a must to ensure that your feet stay secure in the stirrups. Open-toe shoes or sandals are not permitted for safety reasons. Consider bringing a hat to protect your head from the sun and plan accordingly if rain is in the forecast. Tours typically go out rain or shine.

Mounting and Dismounting : Follow the instructions provided by the tour guide when mounting and dismounting from the horse. Be sure to never stand directly behind a horse, and always approach them from the side.

Handling the Reins : The tour guide will provide instructions on how to hold and control the reins. Never pull the reins too hard or yank on them, as this can cause discomfort for the horse. Instead, use a gentle grip to guide your horse.

Prohibited Actions and Behaviors : Running or galloping on the tour is prohibited to ensure the safety of all riders and horses.

Follow the Tour Guide : Stay with the group and follow the lead of the tour guide to avoid getting lost or separated. The tour guide is there to provide important information and ensure the safety of all tour participants.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable horse tour of Gettysburg.

Can you ride your own horse on the Gettysburg Battlefields?

Yes, you can! There is a designated trail beginning at McMillan Woods and ending at Big Round Top, with a spur trail to the Artillery Ridge Campground. This is similar to what is followed by commercial Gettysburg horse tours.

However, for riders looking to bring their own horses, there are specific guidelines to follow. Be sure to check the trail status prior to visiting, as trail closures occur during certain times of the year based on things like weather and school educational programs.

Note that there is no trail riding permitted after sunset, and groups with 15 or more horses will need a special permit. 

Also, be sure to clean up after your animals and only use designated hitching racks or trailers to secure them so you don’t damage the trees and vegetation unless you are able to cross-tie between 2 trees.

Additional Trails Open to Horses Near Gettysburg

The Gettysburg Battlefields are not the only spot nearby where you can explore on horseback. Other parks and locations with bridle trails near Gettysburg include:

• Cordorus State Park
• Gifford Pinchot State Park
• Michaux State Forest
• Catoctin National Park

Where To Stay While Visiting Gettysburg

When planning a trip to Gettysburg, it’s important to consider where to stay during your visit. As a highly popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months, Gettysburg offers a wide range of accommodations. From luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, and even campgrounds and horse parks, there is something to suit every taste and budget.

Plan to stay at The Union Hotel , a bed & breakfast right in historic downtown. It dates back to 1804, and the morning breakfast pastries are delicious! Plus, you’ll be within walking distance of lots of museums downtown, as well as the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

It is important to note that regardless of what type of accommodation you choose, it is recommended to book your stay in advance, particularly during peak season, to ensure availability. Whether you prefer a luxurious stay or a rustic adventure, Gettysburg has the perfect accommodation to make your visit a memorable one.

Whether you’re traveling to Gettysburg from Philadelphia , road-tripping from Pittsburgh across the state to Gettysburg, or flying in from even further away, this small town packed with history is a fantastic destination filled with things to do.

Exploring the Gettysburg National Military Park on horseback cannot be compared to any of the other battlefield tours. The historical tours are a bucket list activity for both nature lovers and history buffs. Whether planning a horseback tour experience or a Battlefield Guided Carriage tour, you won’t be disappointed. Not only will you get to experience the beauty of the Pennsylvania countryside, but you’ll also get a unique perspective on one of the most significant battles in American history.

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

Trails & Tours

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Historic Carriage Town Tour

Price: $25.00

Ole Tyme Carriage Rides of Gettysburg Intersection of Baltimore Street & South Street Gettysburg, PA

Discover Gettysburg Before, During and after the Battle. Learn the story of Gettysburg you may not know yet! Discover Gettysburg: Before, during and after the Battle while taking a carriage ride

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