Horseback riders in the backcountry of Little River Canyon National Preserve (photo by National Park Service / Matt Switzer)
Horseback riding is allowed on the backcountry roads of the Wildlife Management Area in Little River Canyon National Preserve. These roads are shared by vehicles, bikers, hikers, and horses. See the Wildlife Management Area web page here on National Park Planner for a map and photos of what the roads look like.
Hunting is allowed in the backcountry, so avoid riding during hunting season. Also, black bears live in the area.
Individual riders do not need a permit, but organized groups may need one. Contact the park at (256) 845-9605 for more information.
In the Wildlife Management Area on the west side of the Little River, horse trailer parking is available near the southern end of Road 5 at a parking lot on Country Road 295. Road 5 runs the entire length of the backcountry (7.6 miles). While it is in decent shape, roads 7, 8, 9, and 10 are in extremely poor condition. These roads are popular with 4-wheel drive vehicle owners.
Typical backcountry road on the west side of the Little River, Little River Canyon National Preserve
On the east side of the Little River, horse trailer parking is available at the Hunters Check Station off of Country Road 103. This provides access to Road 1. All of the backcountry roads on the east side of the river are in decent condition, but do expect some ruts and potholes that might be filled with water. Roads may even be flooded after a heavy rain.
Typical backcountry road on the east side of the Little River, Little River Canyon National Preserve
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Last updated on June 3, 2025
