PENNSYLVANIA

Claims to Fame: If you prefer to stay on the East Coast, the nation’s sixth most populous state, Pennsylvania, has a central region that offers beautiful views and is very horse friendly.

From guided battlefield tours of Gettysburg National Military Park to jaunts along the scenic Rails to Trails Central Pennsylvania route, which utilizes abandoned railroad corridors, trail riding is widely enjoyed in this region. Some treks will take you through the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, or, if you venture to the Northeast, the famed Poconos. If you prefer to leave your horse at home to explore these territories, there are several ranches in the area that can provide you with a mount and an adventure for a fee.

And no description of central Pennsylvania would be complete without mention of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in the capital city of Harrisburg. Here, one of the biggest attractions is the Pennsylvania Farm Show (farmshow. pa.gov), billed as the nation’s largest indoor agricultural exposition under one roof. Its offerings include Western riding, barrel racing, high school rodeo, cowboy mounted shooting, versatility, and 4-H drill team demos.

Riding club culture is alive and well in central Pennsylvania, with numerous shows hosted by these groups. There’s something for everyone here, including 4-H and a Central Pennsylvania Youth Rodeo Association for the kids, as well as instruction in reining, sorting, and trail events, not to mention boarding stables galore.

Give Me Land, Lots of Land: Central Pennsylvania is rich in agricultural tradition, according to realtor Courtney Lueth. “We’re very blessed to live in a thriving area that’s still in touch with its rural roots,” she says. “There are the small farmettes that are home to one to three horses on less than 20 acres.”

Some of the horsey hotspots include: Port Matilda, the valley from Centre Hall to Spring Mills, and Bellefonte, each of which has its own flavor.

Why We Love It: For Western riders, especially those pursuing barrel racing and other speed events, there are many organizations in the area that support all ages and all levels. “The support network is phenomenal,” notes local trainer Augusta Spandler. Kids are able to join and participate with several 4-H clubs in the area, we have local youth rodeo associations, plenty of different options for shows—local or big.”