Michigan Has Glow-in-the-Dark Horseback Riding and It’s Magical

I totally get it. Michigan winters can make you want to stay inside and hibernate! But sometimes the best way to shake off those cold-weather blues is to get outside and try something different. Skiing and sledding are fun, sure, but have you ever tried glow-in-the-dark horseback riding?

Meet R&R Ranch

Rise & Ride Ranch in Allegan is a small, family-owned horseback riding ranch that has been welcoming riders since 2020. Founded by two sisters and their husbands, the ranch is home to mostly rescue horses, each with its own personality and story. The team treats every horse like family and focuses on keeping them happy and healthy, which makes all rides enjoyable for everyone, no matter your experience level.

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They offer private horseback rides, meet-and-greets, holiday-themed rides, and of course, glow-in-the-dark rides! Each experience has its own charm, but the glow rides have a special magic that makes the winter woods feel enchanting.

The Glow-in-the-Dark Horseback Riding Experience

Glow-in-the-dark rides are for anyone 8 and up, with a maximum of 8 riders per group, and last about 45 minutes. These are walking-only rides, so no galloping in the dark, but you’ll still feel the wonder of riding through softly illuminated trails. No prior experience is needed, though riders should be able to steer their horse along the paths.

Public glow rides cost $75 per rider, while private rides are $450 for up to 6 riders, with the option to add extra riders for $65 each. The West Michigan ranch offers glow rides Thursdays through Saturdays. They only schedule one month at a time because Michigan weather can be unpredictable. For example, the first half of February is now open, but the second half is still tentative until they can see how rainy it might be. Spots sell out fast, so it’s best to grab your ride as soon as you can!

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How Do the Horses Glow?

People are always curious about the glowing horses! R&R Ranch explained on Facebook that they make it happen themselves. Over the past couple of years, they started with light-up products like fairy-light tutus and glow bracelets, then learned to solder and create lights that are safe and durable for the horses.

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The LED lights are attached to custom leather halters and breast collars, and the glow sheets are made from organza with long-lasting pixel lights.

Riding through the winter woods with these glowing horses is a magical experience that I haven't seen anywhere else in Michigan!