The Waterloo Recreation Area, located between Jackson and Chelsea, is a popular riding destination with approximately 21 miles of heavily wooded trails open to hiking and horseback riding. There are four trail loops of varying lengths including a 5-mile loop, a 12-mile loop, a 14-mile loop and a 3-mile kids loop for beginner riders. Rocks and hills are a plenty along the trails, as are sandy, rolling hills, grassy fields and large hardwood forests. There are many destinations to visit as you traverse along the trails following the directional signage. Trail destinations include the switchbacks, picnic areas at creek crossing and the pine stand as well as the lake overlook on the kids loop which connects to the Equestrian Campground also known as the horsemen's campground.
Waterloo has two staging areas for day use visitors, one is located at the horsemen’s campground on the east side of the park and the other is on Maute Road centrally located on the trail system. The staging area near the campground has a gorgeous pavilion for gatherings or picnics, a mounting block, vault toilets and a hand pump for water. The smaller Maute Road staging area has mounting blocks and a vault toilet.
Visitors without horses wishing to have a horseback riding experience can call Horse N’ Around Stables, located within the Waterloo Recreation Area, and schecudle a guided trail ride.
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