Take a Moonlight Ride on Horseback Across the Beautiful Illinois Countryside

Have you ever walked out into the cool Illinois night, looked up at the stars glittering in the darkness of firmament, and thought about how fortunate we are to live in the Prairie State? Whether you're out in the crisp snap of spring, the sultry warmth of summer, or the earthy chill of autumn, our nights are absolutely beautiful—and we're lucky to have so many ways to enjoy them, from stargazing to bonfires. I recently learned about another fantastic way to enjoy them: guided, moonlit horseback rides across the forested, rolling landscape of northern Illinois with SaddleSnaps.

SaddleSnaps is an event business that operates in cooperation with Millbrook Trail Rides in Newark, Illinois - just southwest of Chicago. Its founder, Carol Cronin, is a longtime trail guide with Millbrook who saw nighttime horseback rides as a niche that had not yet been filled. Millbrook, or MTR, provides the horses and 240 acres of lovely landscape. Cronin and her team take care of the rest.

"The inspiration for moonlight rides came when my daughter - who guided for MTR when she was home from college - ended up coming back with a group to the barn in the dark after re-routing for a blocked trail. Those riders loved it, and one said it was the most magical experience she ever had," Cronin told me.

Cronin pitched the idea of night rides to MTR and the first SaddleSnaps moonlight ride took place in 2022. Since then, hundreds of riders have mounted up for the experience.

Cronin schedules one moonlight ride every month, usually on a Friday, between April and October and, historically, has sprinkled in other rides and events throughout the season. In 2024, for example, "We had a huge old-fashioned square dance after one ride," Cronin said. "It was so successful that we are planning a line-dance in the barn this July [2025]. Starting in September we’ll have a chili supper after most rides, with chili provided by Sage’s Meat Market in Oswego - including all the fixin’s, plus cornbread and warm mulled apple cider."

On a typical trip, the riders set out just before sunset so they can enjoy the gorgeous countryside, taking in the setting sun and the twilight. When darkness falls, you'll enjoy the cool air on your face and navigate by the light of the moon and stars. Don't worry, though, guides will lead the way.

"We usually have eight customers on each ride plus two guides," Cronin told me. "We put glowsticks on the horses to make sure we’re all staying together." Afterward, riders enjoy a bonfire with the horses and s'mores.

"We bring carrots for guests to give to their favorite horses, but we ask that nobody lets the horses eat their s’mores," Cronin said. "We frequently offer private Tarot or Oracle readings after the rides, which guests find both interesting and entertaining."

Guests are welcome to bring other snacks and beverages, as well. Personally, I'd recommend tucking a headlamp into your pocket to help light your way when you're off your horse and, in the summer, insect repellent.

The Moonlight Rides are beginner-friendly, but according to Cronin, they are "it’s "not a good choice for first-time riders." For those with fewer than five hours of experience in the saddle, Cronin recommends some daylight riding time with Millbrook Trail Rides. In addition, Moonlight Riders must be at least 14 years old, and riders younger than 18 must ride with a parent or guardian.

To book your Moonlight Ride, visit SaddleSnaps on the web. For more photos, check out SaddleSnaps on Facebook, as well. Happy trails!