Our Story: A Legacy on Horseback

Saddle Up Stables is a family-owned and operated business with deep roots and a rich history in the Lake George region. For over 90 years, the same family has dedicated their lives bringing their horses to Upstate New York offering trail rides to generations of visitors.

Our story begins in the early 1930s, when our grandfather, “Coot,” and his brother, Bob, traveled from North Carolina to the Adirondacks, bringing a small herd of horses to the region’s summer camps. Recognizing the growing demand for riding experiences at the area’s premier resorts, they established their first stables at Green Mansions and Scaroon Manor—both popular and upscale destinations north of Lake George.

Coot’s reputation for professionalism and well-trained horses quickly grew. Before long, he was invited to open a stable at Sunnybrook Acres, a well-known resort now called Twin Birches, right here in Lake George. That stable became a beloved part of the local summer experience and remained in operation for many years.

In the 1960s, Coot and his two sons, Henry and Babe, expanded the business by opening six additional stables throughout the region. These stables served the growing number of tourists coming to the Adirondacks and operated well into the 1980s.

Today, Saddle Up Stables remains the last of stables, the family operated. It is proudly run by the third generation—sisters Lisa and Suzi, daughters of Henry—who grew up around the stables. You’ll often see their grown children lending a hand during the summer, and even the next 5th generation—grandchildren.

We operate seasonally, offering guided horseback rides throughout the warmer months. Each fall, we return our horses to North Carolina, where they enjoy the off-season roaming lush pastures.

At Saddle Up Stables, we’re more than just a riding stable—we’re a piece of Lake George history. We take pride in continuing the legacy our grandfather started, offering guests a safe, fun, and unforgettable riding experience in the heart of the Adirondacks.