The exquisiteness of equine

Take some time to explore SLO County from the saddle

The world is a beautiful place from the back of a horse. When riding, all troubles go out the window and life is suddenly simple. San Luis Obispo County has a rich and diverse equestrian community. Whatever your discipline, there is something here for you. And while we might speak different “horse languages”, it’s important to realize and remember we share the same love of horses.

It’s important to build a trusting, respectful relationship with your equine partner in the riding ring, but a hack on the trail is where your true horsemanship (or horsewomanship) skills are tested. (Hacking is exercising out on the trails to avoid getting a horse burned out on flat or ring work) So whether you consider yourself a Dressage Queen, a Rodeo Diva, or a Backyard Rough’n’Tumbler, call your horsey friends and plan a playdate! For your convenience, we’ve compiled a list of some great places to ride your horse.

Paloma Creek Arena is free for public use, and also available for reservation. Located in Atascadero on the corner of Halcon Rd. and Viejo Camino next to Paloma Creek Park, exit Hwy 101 at Santa Barbara Rd. and travel towards, then across, El Camino Real. Left on Viejo Camino. Arena is on the right.

The Wranglerette’s Arena in Atascadero, while not available for recreational riding, is a great place to host your next equine event. It’s also a great place to park the horse trailer, since there is easy access to the Salinas River. Exit Hwy 101 at Curbaril Rd. and travel towards El Camino Real. Continue on Curbrail Rd., and turn right on Garbarda Rd., left on Tampico Rd., right on Aragon.

The Jim Green Trail in Atascadero is great for a trail ride. Be aware that there are hikers and often dogs on this trail. Best to park at Wranglerette’s and ride over to the trail head, which is located on Cortez Ave., via the riverbed and adjacent trails. Take caution crossing the railroad tracks.

Santa Margarita Lake has wonderful trails for exploring. Note the $10 vehicle charge to enter park. Exit Hwy 101 at the Highway 58 /Santa Margarita exit. Follow El Camino Real through town, looking for Highway 58 signs. Turn right onto Highway 58 (Also referred to as Santa Margarita Lake Road or Pozo Road). Continue straight (Do NOT turn left at Hwy 58) for approximately 6 miles to Santa Margarita Lake Road. Turn left (the Rinconada Store will be on your right). Entrance to Santa Margarita Lake is at the end of this road.

Experience the gorgeous 8,500 acre Montana de Oro State Park on 50 miles of trails. Ride for the day or camp-out for the weekend. Access the park via Los Osos Valley Rd. in Los Osos. Entrance to the Horse Camp is almost immediately after entering the park, on the left. For reservations call 1 (800) 444-7275.

Take a gallop through the surf along Morro Bay State Beach. Be cautious of other beach-goes, which will undoubtedly include kids and dogs. And please, watch out for the Snowy Plover, a small, endangered bird that lays its eggs on the sand and has a protected, roped-off habitat in this area. Park the trailer at “the Pit”, just past the Morro Bay High School on Hwy 41.

Ana Korgan - is a local writer, photographer, and equestrian.

 

Trail Riding Safety

 

When you’re out on the trail, it’s important to remember safety first. Here are some basic tips for keeping your trail ride safe and more importantly, fun… 

Rule Number One when riding a horse: Always wear a helmet! Even the most experienced horse-rider can have accidents. Forget whatever fashion faux-pas you might associate with helmets; they’re much more stylish than a permanent head injury!

When riding in a group, have a discussion before you mount up. Know which horses like to be in the lead, which like to follow, which might kick, etc.

Be honest about your riding abilities, and understanding about those of others. If you’re a novice, don’t be ashamed to speak up if you’re uncomfortable about moving faster than a walk. If you’re more seasoned and comfortable trotting or loping on the trail, but someone wants to keep the pace at a walk, don’t get upset. Know the ability of your horse; don’t ask an out-of-shape horse to go on an all-day ride, or expect a young, inexperienced horse to be well-behaved on the trail. 

While group riding is fun, you might want to (or have to) go out on your own. Always tell someone where you’re going to ride, when you anticipate on being back, and take a cell phone.

Be respectful to proprietors and the environment. Never trespass on private property or ride on trails that aren’t open to equestrians. If you want to explore a new area, contact the land owner and ask if you can ride there. If they decline, respect their decision and find somewhere else to ride. Try to avoid riding on multi-use trails in wet conditions, since hoof-prints can upset the trail footing, making it difficult for hikers and mountain bikers. Never leave trash out on the trail, or engage in activities that could start a wildfire, ever!

Remember: while the mode of transport is different, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders are out on the trail to enjoy the same thing: fresh air, sunshine, and the majesty of nature. We’re all neighbors, so be friendly when you pass someone on the trail and set a shining example for the equestrian community.

Activities: 
gobbledygook