Stagecoach Trails Livery is a business near Galena, Illinois that offers stagecoach and covered wagon rides along historic trails. Galena is a scenic town overlooking the Galena River in northwest Illinois. Running through the Galena area are trails that link together Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa. Used for over 10,000 years, these trails were navigated by Native Americans traders, French traders, American pioneers and slaves seeking freedom. Stagecoach Trails Livery offers visitors to the area a chance to experience these trails like a pioneer from hundreds of years ago.
Stagecoach Trails Livery offers rides in a replica of an original Concord Stagecoach. Stagecoaches were horse-drawn carriages used in the 1800s to transport passengers, mail and goods before the advent of cars. Stagecoaches built by Downing and Abbott, known as the Concord Coach, were recognized for their quality and endurance. Stagecoach Trails Livery also offers rides in covered wagons.
Stagecoach Trails Livery follows some of the old stagecoach and wagon trails that ran past Galena, such as the Frink-Walker trail which connected Chicago to Dubuque. During the ride, visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer and wild turkeys. Those riding in a wagon can choose to enjoy a chuck wagon meal on the trail. Chuck wagon meals during that time included items like beans, biscuits, meat and rice.
Besides just riding in a stagecoach or wagon, visitors can actually harness, fasten and drive the Belgian horses themselves. Stagecoach Trails Livery offers instruction and equipment so that both beginners and expert drivers can comfortably lead the way. There is a bunkhouse warming room for visitors to rest in.
The business can be hired to provide transportation for events such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, parties and corporate retreats. Stagecoach Trails Livery also offers hay and sleigh rides. Visitors choose the length of their trip. Rates are charged per hour per group of eight. Contact the owners, Robert and Lavonne Spillane, to make a reservation.
