Guided Horseback Tours Close to WEC — Ride the Cross Florida Greenway
Visiting the World Equestrian Center (WEC) and want a trail ride the whole family will love? Cactus Jack’s Trail Rides offers guided horseback tours on the scenic Cross Florida Greenway — beginner-friendly, rescue-horse proud, and run by a team that truly loves the animals.
Why Ride with Cactus Jack’s Near WEC
- Guided rides on the Cross Florida Greenway — oak hammocks, wildlife, and shaded trails.
- Beginner-friendly & family-friendly; individuals and groups welcome.
- Most of our herd are rescues; we prioritize health, happiness, and safety.
- We operate with the State of Florida at the Land Bridge Trailhead.
- Horses matched to rider weight, experience, and accessibility needs.
- We rotate our ~22 horses so they get regular time off.
About 60 miles from Orlando • A short drive from WEC in Ocala — the Horse Capital of the World.
Ride Options & Schedules
| Ride | Price | Departures |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Hour Guided Trail Ride | $60 + tax | 9:00 AM · 1:00 PM |
| 90-Minute Guided Trail Ride | $80 + tax | 9:00 AM · 1:00 PM |
| 2-Hour Guided Trail Ride | $110 + tax | 9:00 AM |
Please arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, safety briefing, and to meet your horse.
Who Can Ride
- Age: 13+ (a parent/guardian does not need to ride if a release is signed).
- Helmets: Required for riders 17 and under; optional at 18+ (helmets provided).
- Weight limit: 80lbs Min – 260lbs Max
- Health: Must be in good health; not pregnant; no neck/back injuries; no oxygen tanks.
- Experience: Not required — all are welcome.
What to Wear & Gear
- Closed-toe shoes are a must (no sandals or flip-flops).
- Long pants recommended for comfort.
- No double riding (two people on one horse).
- All riders mount via a loading block, regardless of experience.
- Saddles: Australian Trail & Western for comfort and support.
Where We Ride
Ride Through the Cross Florida Greenway
Our guided tours take place on the Cross Florida Greenway — one of the most historic and scenic trail systems in Florida. This protected corridor spans 70,000+ acres and is filled with diverse landscapes, shaded oak hammocks, pine forests, and peaceful meadows.
What makes the Greenway truly unique is its history. Originally dug as part of the Cross Florida Barge Canal project in the 1930s–1960s, this area still shows the massive canal diggings that cut through the land. Those earthworks created rolling terrain and unexpected elevation changes — something rare in Florida’s usually flat landscape. On horseback, you’ll notice gentle climbs and dips, high ridges with sweeping views, and cool low spots where wildlife loves to gather.
Today, instead of barges, it’s horseback riders, hikers, and cyclists who enjoy the land. As the state’s designated horseback riding provider for the Greenway, we’re proud to guide visitors through trails that combine natural beauty, local history, and an unforgettable riding experience.
From Canal Dreams to Horseback Adventures: The Story of Florida’s Cross Florida Greenway
Reserve Your Ride
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Good to Know
- Rain checks provided for inclement weather.
- We love helping horses—rescues, auctions, and donations make up much of our herd.
- A portion of all proceeds supports the Florida Parks Cross Florida Greenway.
If you know a horse in need of help, please email us right away.
Contact
Email: FLHorseRiding@gmail.com
Main Site: cactusjackstrailrides.com
Second Site: https://floridahorseriding.com
Cross Florida Greenway – Land Bridge Trailhead, Ocala, FL • “About 60 miles from Orlando.”
FAQs
Do I need prior riding experience?
No. Our rides are guided and beginner-friendly. We’ll match you with a suitable horse and get you comfortable before we head out.
What if my group is large?
We welcome solo riders and groups. Maximum group size is 12 riders.
What saddles do you use?
We ride primarily in Australian Trail and Western saddles for comfort and support.