Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides Come to DuPage Co. Forest Preserve This Winter

Several DuPage County Forest Preserve sites will be offering horse-drawn sleigh rides this winter.

Just in time for winter, St. James Farm in Warrenville will offer 20-minute sleigh rides Wednesday through Saturday on Dec. 21 through Jan. 7 at 2, 2:30 and 3 p.m., although it will use wagons if there’s not ample snow on the trails. Private group rides at St. James Farm can be arranged by calling 630-580-7025.

Finally, to complement special events at other forest preserve locations, the District is bringing horse-drawn rides to “Talons and Claus” on Dec. 3 at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn and to “Wonders of Winter” on Feb. 4 at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook.

“This is a great way to expand opportunities for recreation and education at these three beautiful preserves and aligns with our mission to connect people to nature,” said Commissioner Al Murphy, District 6.

“We’re thrilled to offer a program like this year-round. Horse-drawn wagon rides are family-friendly and celebrate our equine heritage,” said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County President Joe Cantore.

All Forest Preserve District horse-drawn hayrides cost $5 per person and are free for kids under 5. Children under 13 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Rides will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis--registration is not required, but the District will cancel rides if there’s severe weather, according to the news release.

Photo credit: DuPage County Forest Preserves District