About The Venue

Danada Equestrian Center in Wheaton promotes safe, humane horse handling and care by advancing the relationship between humans and their equine companions. The center offers horseback riding lessons, lectures, group tours of its Kentucky-style barn and youth summer camps.

The center is located at Danada Forest Preserve featuring prairies, woods, and wetlands. Nearly 8 miles of the nationally designated Danada-Herrick Regional Trail provides scenic excursions for equestrians. A half-mile racetrack and starting gate remain from this center’s former use as a Thoroughbred training facility.

Overnight stalls are available but no camping accommodations offered for challenge participants. Camping may be available at nearby Blackwell Forest Preserve.  Lodging is available in nearby Lisle or Naperville.

The center is owned and operated by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County.

Event Details

Bring your horse and test your skills in a friendly riding competition.

Choose from any of three challenges that best suit your horse and skill set: Saturday trail; Sunday in-hand obstacle; or mounted obstacle. 

The Terrain

The Danada-Herrick Regional Trail is a multipurpose limestone trail with minimal rolling terrain. Danada Forest Preserve also offers grassy trails. Danada Equestrian Center’s parking lot is paved.

Most horses who normally do not wear shoes are comfortable on challenge surfaces; use your discretion.

Meals

Subway Sandwich Platters, Chips, and drinks

Awards

ETS ribbons for novice, intermediate, and advanced: first through sixth-place. Junior (ages 13 – 17): first through third place. Youngin’ (ages 7 – 12): first through third place. Newcomer: first place.

Additional Danada and Forest Preserve District prizes offered.

Additional Fees

All Amenities are Cash or Check Only.

Additional Opportunities

Discover more about the Forest Preserve District, Danada Equestrian Center, forest preserves and trails at dupageforest.org. Visit Danada’s horses in the barn and paddocks; discover more about the center’s programs for adults and children alike; and take in the beautiful gardens at Danada House. Or visit St. James Farm, another horse-friendly forest preserve in Warrenville, to explore the history and ride the trails.