Linda has left a new comment on your post "New Member":
I am also a new member to Ride the River Kern...although I have been riding the river off and on for 40 years. I board at Rancho Notso Grande for the last year (love my new home!) and previously at Robertson's for 2 years...would like to comment on a couple of my concerns.
I ride almost daily so am fortunate to see the changes along the banks of the river. However one feels about the beaver activity - they are a part of the natural environment that we all enjoy so much when we ride. In the interest of co-habitating with these wonderful creatures wouldn't it be great to protect the trunks of the equally wonderful sycamore trees that line the banks of our precious riding area. We all have our favorites, but the sycamores are at the top of the food chain in my book. Rather than fret after the fact when one is gnawed and felled by a beaver can we be proactive and organize a group to nip it in the bud? Anyone interested in this endeavour?
My other concern - hazards on the trail - whether they be pieces of wire or broken glass - what are the rules and regs concerning taking a non-motorized vehicle (golf cart) and picking up some of these hazards? Should signs be posted to warn riders that there is a vehicle on the trail, etc. etc. Input please...
Ed. Note: Hi Linda, how's that new horse doing? (actually it's probably been a year...) I agree about the trees, I'm sure this has been a subject of discussion with the Panorama Preserve group (which is why we should all support them). Maybe we will get a response here, if not, I'll try to contact someone "in the know". But I agree, at least a sizeable number should be identified and protected. My experience with beavers is that they target young trees with trunks or limbs under three inches in circumference. The older, larger trees do get hit if the limbs are low to the ground. (This is NOT a scientific fact, just observation from an untrained eye.)
Regarding the motorized vehicle, again we need to contact someone from the PP but I've been told that cleanups have to be cleared through the PP. This might seem like it's silly, (I mean who wouldn't want someone to go help cleanup?!), but I think it effects their ability to negotiate grants, funds, and liability.
I have posted designated clean up days in the past and will post again when I hear of one coming up. For small things, we will just continue to hop off our horses and bring it home. Thanks for your concern.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Friday, July 24, 2009
FUNDING FOR TRAILS
I found this information on Horsecity.com regarding funding for trails. I'm concerned about the bridge in Hart park, it has been "out of order" for several months. Perhaps an equestrian group could raise some funds and we could pay for it. I'll try to contact the Park authorities next week and find out how much it would cost. In the meantime, here's the information regarding federal funds for local trails...
Recreational Trails Program Up for Reauthorization
Posted on Horsecity.com: Thursday, May 7, 2009
The American Horse Council (AHC) is working to preserve the Federal Highway Administrations Recreational Trails Program. If Congress does not take action this year this program could no longer be available to recreational riders.
The RTP provides funding directly to the states for recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. It was created in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was last re-authorized in 2005 as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, this law is about to expire. The RTP will have to be re-authorized in the next national surface transportation program bill if it is to continue.
Since its inception the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects.
The RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land. The program is a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks, said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass.
In the coming months Congress is expected to begin work on the next 5 year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users is requesting that Congress not only re-authorized the RTP, but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent over the five years of the bill.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program. This is a great program and I hope equestrians will take the time to call or write their Representatives and Senators and let them know this program is important to the horse community, said AHC President Jay Hickey.
Recreational Trails Program Up for Reauthorization
Posted on Horsecity.com: Thursday, May 7, 2009
The American Horse Council (AHC) is working to preserve the Federal Highway Administrations Recreational Trails Program. If Congress does not take action this year this program could no longer be available to recreational riders.
The RTP provides funding directly to the states for recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both non-motorized and motorized recreational trail uses. It was created in 1991 as part of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 and was last re-authorized in 2005 as part of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, this law is about to expire. The RTP will have to be re-authorized in the next national surface transportation program bill if it is to continue.
Since its inception the RTP has provided approximately $677 million for thousands of state and local trail projects across the country, including many that benefit equestrians. RTP projects consist of construction, maintenance and restoration of trails and trail related facilities as well as the acquisition of easements or property for trails.
Although each state manages its own program, 30% of RTP funds must be spent on non-motorized projects like equestrian trails, 30% on motorized, and 40% percent on multiuse projects.
The RTP is one of the few sources for federal funding of trail projects that are not on federal land. The program is a great resource for equestrians to fund projects in their state and local parks, said AHC Legislative Director Ben Pendergrass.
In the coming months Congress is expected to begin work on the next 5 year highway bill. The AHC, in conjunction with a broad coalition of recreational trail users is requesting that Congress not only re-authorized the RTP, but also increase funding for the program to $555 million to be spent over the five years of the bill.
The AHC urges recreational riders to contact their members of Congress to voice support for this program. This is a great program and I hope equestrians will take the time to call or write their Representatives and Senators and let them know this program is important to the horse community, said AHC President Jay Hickey.
Friday, July 10, 2009
UPCOMING EVENTS
This is a re-post of summer events, but I wanted to move it to the top:
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985 This sounds FUN!!!
July 26th, Sunday: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766 sorry, wrong date was listed earlier... the correct date is Sunday.
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia) Are you a "packer"? Call the Sequoia Unit and help pack into the backcountry. ACE stands for American Conservation Experience, where students from around the world literally pay to come work on volunteer projects across the US.
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit) Do you like packing or riding into the backcountry and want to help preserve our access? Call Joy.
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299 Join the Sequoia BCHC unit at beautiful Montano de Oro.
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985 This sounds FUN!!!
July 26th, Sunday: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766 sorry, wrong date was listed earlier... the correct date is Sunday.
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia) Are you a "packer"? Call the Sequoia Unit and help pack into the backcountry. ACE stands for American Conservation Experience, where students from around the world literally pay to come work on volunteer projects across the US.
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit) Do you like packing or riding into the backcountry and want to help preserve our access? Call Joy.
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299 Join the Sequoia BCHC unit at beautiful Montano de Oro.
Local Stables
I'm back from vacation! It was cool at the coast, but I still love Bakersfield...
I recently received an email from an "out of towner" interested in finding a stable. It made me think that it would be a good idea to establish a list of local stables, so here's a beginning (very incomplete, I'd love to have more added. If you know of one, or would like to send a description of the amenities I will add that. I will not get into "ratings" because there is always someone who loves a facility and someone else who hates it...)
Robertson Stables: Corner of Manor and Roberts Lane 393-2976
Rancho Rio Stables: 5320 Peacock Park Lane 395-0213
Silverado Stables: 4600 Alfred Harrell Hwy. (Next to Ethel's) 872-9462
Rio Bravo Equestrian Center: East of Lake Ming 872-5050
River Oak Stables: 7931 Garrin Road 834-4985
Shady Grove Riding Club: 10811 Muller Road 363-6959
Triple C Ranch Horse Hotel: 5818 South Fairfax 845-6937 website: www.crittercleaners.com
Valley Tree Ranch: 843 Moon Ranch St. 589-8704
On the Go Farm: 4500 Cosmo 872-7147
Banner Farms Inc.: 2707 South Fairfax Road 366-2128
I recently received an email from an "out of towner" interested in finding a stable. It made me think that it would be a good idea to establish a list of local stables, so here's a beginning (very incomplete, I'd love to have more added. If you know of one, or would like to send a description of the amenities I will add that. I will not get into "ratings" because there is always someone who loves a facility and someone else who hates it...)
Robertson Stables: Corner of Manor and Roberts Lane 393-2976
Rancho Rio Stables: 5320 Peacock Park Lane 395-0213
Silverado Stables: 4600 Alfred Harrell Hwy. (Next to Ethel's) 872-9462
Rio Bravo Equestrian Center: East of Lake Ming 872-5050
River Oak Stables: 7931 Garrin Road 834-4985
Shady Grove Riding Club: 10811 Muller Road 363-6959
Triple C Ranch Horse Hotel: 5818 South Fairfax 845-6937 website: www.crittercleaners.com
Valley Tree Ranch: 843 Moon Ranch St. 589-8704
On the Go Farm: 4500 Cosmo 872-7147
Banner Farms Inc.: 2707 South Fairfax Road 366-2128
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Day Ride to Griffith Park
I just got my newsletter from ETI and they have added a ride to Griffith Park on July 12th. Contact Laura at 366-1390 if you would like to join up and ride.
UPDATE on Aera staging area
The staging/parking area at Stockdale and Jewetta is adjacent (part of?) the Aera baseball field: Marci Cunningham has been following the developments of this area and has the following update:
The Aera Park staging area is still a work in progress. There will be equestrian access at the opposite end from the bridge as soon as additional fencing is installed to keep people out of the canals. The KC Water Agency just met last week to discuss this access and fencing so it will take some time for it to get installed. This access will be adjacent to the double gate so there will be no need for horses to go across the bridge. However I felt comfortable riding my Arabian horse across the bridge even with its proximity to Stockdale and the posts at either end of the bridge. Signage will be placed on the fence indicating horse trailer parking only and the turn around will have no parking signs placed in it. I think those who tie their horse on the park side of their trailer will always need to be aware of vehicles and people since there will often be kids playing baseball. Carolyn Belli asked that the city stripe the length of the trailer parking area to allow for some separation but it won't be much more that a couple of feet off the edge of the asphalt. Keep up the good work with this blog as it is a great way to disemminate information.
The Aera Park staging area is still a work in progress. There will be equestrian access at the opposite end from the bridge as soon as additional fencing is installed to keep people out of the canals. The KC Water Agency just met last week to discuss this access and fencing so it will take some time for it to get installed. This access will be adjacent to the double gate so there will be no need for horses to go across the bridge. However I felt comfortable riding my Arabian horse across the bridge even with its proximity to Stockdale and the posts at either end of the bridge. Signage will be placed on the fence indicating horse trailer parking only and the turn around will have no parking signs placed in it. I think those who tie their horse on the park side of their trailer will always need to be aware of vehicles and people since there will often be kids playing baseball. Carolyn Belli asked that the city stripe the length of the trailer parking area to allow for some separation but it won't be much more that a couple of feet off the edge of the asphalt. Keep up the good work with this blog as it is a great way to disemminate information.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Grand Opening of Allen Road Bridge
Three of us rode out to watch the Grand Opening and I should emphasize "watch" because we were down below the embankment and couldn't go up to join because of locked gates. But our presence was recognized as one of the dignitaries said he was happy to see several groups represented, including cyclists and "esquarians"! Bob and Marion and I looked around to try to spot one of those "square" something or others. Never caught a glimpse so we decided that maybe he meant the equestrians.
We checked out the staging area and the trail, here's our analysis:
The staging area is "passable" but needs some work to become safe.
1. We would like to see a degree of separation between the cars parked for the baseball games and our horses/trailers. As it stands, if you park your trailer on the side of the asphalt and tie two horses on the canal side and another on the baseball side, you had better have someone available to watch your horse and make sure a passing car or wandering child doesn't come up on your horse.
2. We would like signs posted stating that this is a staging area for equestrians.
3. We would like the turnaround end of the parking lot to have red curbs to indicate no parking and have it enforced. I drove by at 5:30 p.m. the other night and even though there weren't many cars in the parking lot, two vehicles still parked in the turnaround. If a horse trailer came in at that time, they would be forced to back up several hundred feet to get out.
4. In addition to the painted curbs, we would like to have a sign stating that vehicles will be towed if parked in that area.
5. The bike/ped bridge is unacceptable. It is too close to Stockdale Hwy and has a post in the middle at both ends to stop vehicles. (Some will say that this is no big deal, and it won't be a big deal until some goofball horse gets itself and a rider hurt. A friend of mine who has won many awards for her expertise in riding , said she would not risk her animal even though her animal is well trained and reliable and they have been through many difficult situations. Her opinion was "why put your animal in a situation that you know can be dangerous.)
6. When coming back from the river trail, we have to cross the bike path, but a tree leans out and you can only see about 30 feet. Either the tree needs to be cut back to allow us to see oncoming bikes (and them see us), or a sign needs to be posted warning cylists that there is a horse crossing coming up. I prefer cutting the tree back.
What we liked:
1. Since we are right next to the baseball diamonds, there are bathrooms!!!!!!!!!!
Although the underpass under Stockdale is a little too close to the water line for me, it is dry now and probably will stay dry unless there is a LOT of water. (won't be soon)
2. The underpass under Allen is super. It's up high above a possible water line and there is plenty of head clearance. It's also nice and open so your horses should feel secure.
3. We rode out on the dirt road for a ways west of Allen. It's a good road, but not as interesting as finding a path (or making one) out in the grassy area. Be careful in the grassy area, we found a lot of short lengths of barbed wire and occasional trash with glass and plastic. Not really bad, just be cautious.
Altogether, we had a great ride once we got away from the staging area. Hopefully, the water company or the city will figure out a way for us to get safely on the trail. Marion, thank you for the pictures, I'll post them when I get back from vacation.
We checked out the staging area and the trail, here's our analysis:
The staging area is "passable" but needs some work to become safe.
1. We would like to see a degree of separation between the cars parked for the baseball games and our horses/trailers. As it stands, if you park your trailer on the side of the asphalt and tie two horses on the canal side and another on the baseball side, you had better have someone available to watch your horse and make sure a passing car or wandering child doesn't come up on your horse.
2. We would like signs posted stating that this is a staging area for equestrians.
3. We would like the turnaround end of the parking lot to have red curbs to indicate no parking and have it enforced. I drove by at 5:30 p.m. the other night and even though there weren't many cars in the parking lot, two vehicles still parked in the turnaround. If a horse trailer came in at that time, they would be forced to back up several hundred feet to get out.
4. In addition to the painted curbs, we would like to have a sign stating that vehicles will be towed if parked in that area.
5. The bike/ped bridge is unacceptable. It is too close to Stockdale Hwy and has a post in the middle at both ends to stop vehicles. (Some will say that this is no big deal, and it won't be a big deal until some goofball horse gets itself and a rider hurt. A friend of mine who has won many awards for her expertise in riding , said she would not risk her animal even though her animal is well trained and reliable and they have been through many difficult situations. Her opinion was "why put your animal in a situation that you know can be dangerous.)
6. When coming back from the river trail, we have to cross the bike path, but a tree leans out and you can only see about 30 feet. Either the tree needs to be cut back to allow us to see oncoming bikes (and them see us), or a sign needs to be posted warning cylists that there is a horse crossing coming up. I prefer cutting the tree back.
What we liked:
1. Since we are right next to the baseball diamonds, there are bathrooms!!!!!!!!!!
Although the underpass under Stockdale is a little too close to the water line for me, it is dry now and probably will stay dry unless there is a LOT of water. (won't be soon)
2. The underpass under Allen is super. It's up high above a possible water line and there is plenty of head clearance. It's also nice and open so your horses should feel secure.
3. We rode out on the dirt road for a ways west of Allen. It's a good road, but not as interesting as finding a path (or making one) out in the grassy area. Be careful in the grassy area, we found a lot of short lengths of barbed wire and occasional trash with glass and plastic. Not really bad, just be cautious.
Altogether, we had a great ride once we got away from the staging area. Hopefully, the water company or the city will figure out a way for us to get safely on the trail. Marion, thank you for the pictures, I'll post them when I get back from vacation.
New Member
Karen recently became a new member to Ride the River Kern and I thought I would post her personal info because I think it is probably true for many of us:
As an endurance rider, trails preservation is very important to me. I regularly ride the trails from Coffee Road to Lake Ming, including the available trails in the foothills between Alfred Harrell Highway and Highway 178. I think it is of the utmost importance that equestrians share their needs with the community at large in an effort to prove that meeting our needs is for the betterment of our community.
As an endurance rider, trails preservation is very important to me. I regularly ride the trails from Coffee Road to Lake Ming, including the available trails in the foothills between Alfred Harrell Highway and Highway 178. I think it is of the utmost importance that equestrians share their needs with the community at large in an effort to prove that meeting our needs is for the betterment of our community.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
GRAND OPENING TOMORROW!!!!!!!
I just received the following message:
Allen Bridge, road, bike re-route and Allen Road access for bikes (north and south) and the equestrian underpass will have their grand opening this Friday at 10 AM!
The elms were replaced with oaks (valley oak no less). Now I get to work on the revegetation plan for fall planting.
Marcia H. WolfeMH Wolfe and AssociatesEnvironmental Consulting, Inc.
I think equestrians should probably go out for an early morning ride then cross the river to the south side where the new Allen Road bridge crosses the river. STAY OFF THE ALLEN ROAD BRIDGE, cars will be coming across. Saddle up and bring your horse, or just drive out and join the festivities.
Allen Bridge, road, bike re-route and Allen Road access for bikes (north and south) and the equestrian underpass will have their grand opening this Friday at 10 AM!
The elms were replaced with oaks (valley oak no less). Now I get to work on the revegetation plan for fall planting.
Marcia H. WolfeMH Wolfe and AssociatesEnvironmental Consulting, Inc.
I think equestrians should probably go out for an early morning ride then cross the river to the south side where the new Allen Road bridge crosses the river. STAY OFF THE ALLEN ROAD BRIDGE, cars will be coming across. Saddle up and bring your horse, or just drive out and join the festivities.
A MESSAGE FROM RICH ONEIL
ED. NOTE: The following was a post under Bakersfield Life Magazine, but I thought you all might miss it, so I'm posting it separately. The highlights and text enlargements were added by me because I want to draw your attention to these facts. This has been a LONG effort that many of us are just getting involved in. Contact Rich, listen to what he has to say, and give him your support.
Equestrians;
Hello. Allow me to introduce myself. (I have never blogged. so I hope this works). My name is Rich Oneil. I am a member of the Kern River Parkway Foundation and Committee. I have worked on the Kern River Parkway or aka, River corridor through Bakersfield since 1974. I have worked on (with many other people) the trail systems along the Kern River since then. That includes the Horse Trail, the Jogging Trail, and the Bike Path--seeking funding. purchase of property, signing, and preservation. --as well as Yokuts Park, Riverwalk Park, staging areas, etc.
I mention this little bit of local history so that I might encourage everyone to " work together ".
The River is used by many people and folks of many varied interests. If we can work together, we can continue to build, map, plan, fund, and preserve the equestrian trail from the mouth of the Kern Canyon to Lake Buena Vista.
For purposes of introduction, I count as my friends and co-workers on the River Plan, the following: Roberta and Billie Robertson, Marian Vargas, Carolyn Belli, Marci Cunningham, Donna Yowell..
I would like to share with you much more current and possibly (of which you might already know) news about the Horse trails along the River. I know that you have much information that also might be useful to the Kern River Parkway Foundation.
My phone number is 706-1096.
e-mail is richoneil99@hotmail.com
Sincerely, rich oneil
Also, this is another note from Rich received through an email from Marion,
Judging from recent BC news articles about the river trails and Parkway features, we (us) do not do a good enough job of communicating with one another (organizations). How about , we have a meeting or party whereby all non-profit and other organizations using the Kern River Corridor, get together and share ideas and plans. We all want and need clean water and shady trails along the river. Melissa, are you still willing to help plan this party? Keep brain storming! rich
Equestrians;
Hello. Allow me to introduce myself. (I have never blogged. so I hope this works). My name is Rich Oneil. I am a member of the Kern River Parkway Foundation and Committee. I have worked on the Kern River Parkway or aka, River corridor through Bakersfield since 1974. I have worked on (with many other people) the trail systems along the Kern River since then. That includes the Horse Trail, the Jogging Trail, and the Bike Path--seeking funding. purchase of property, signing, and preservation. --as well as Yokuts Park, Riverwalk Park, staging areas, etc.
I mention this little bit of local history so that I might encourage everyone to " work together ".
The River is used by many people and folks of many varied interests. If we can work together, we can continue to build, map, plan, fund, and preserve the equestrian trail from the mouth of the Kern Canyon to Lake Buena Vista.
For purposes of introduction, I count as my friends and co-workers on the River Plan, the following: Roberta and Billie Robertson, Marian Vargas, Carolyn Belli, Marci Cunningham, Donna Yowell..
I would like to share with you much more current and possibly (of which you might already know) news about the Horse trails along the River. I know that you have much information that also might be useful to the Kern River Parkway Foundation.
My phone number is 706-1096.
e-mail is richoneil99@hotmail.com
Sincerely, rich oneil
Also, this is another note from Rich received through an email from Marion,
Judging from recent BC news articles about the river trails and Parkway features, we (us) do not do a good enough job of communicating with one another (organizations). How about , we have a meeting or party whereby all non-profit and other organizations using the Kern River Corridor, get together and share ideas and plans. We all want and need clean water and shady trails along the river. Melissa, are you still willing to help plan this party? Keep brain storming! rich
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
SUMMER AND FALL EQUESTRIAN EVENTS
Most of the following events were shared by Kern Sierra Unit of Backcountry Horsemen or the Sequoia Unit, thank you to both.
Some of these events are open for the flat land trail rider and some require experience in packing and backcountry riding. Call for more information and join if you are not already a member. Also, many clubs have meetings at private homes, so I will not list meetings unless they are at a public location. Call the organization if you would like to attend meetings and become involved.
June 20th: UC Davis Animal Science Production Sale (530) 754-4156
June 20th: Trout Day Ride: contact Jamie (559) 784-7836 (Sequoia Unit)
June 20th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for United Pegasus Fondation on June 20th, 2009 at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center on 22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Road in Tehachapi, CA .
June 21st: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
June 26-28 Kernville, CA Mule and Donkey Days (760) 378-2222 jporter@lightspeed.net
June 27-29 Food Booth (Springville?) contact Jamie (559) 784-7836
June 27-29 Pack Supplies for ACE contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 9-12 Grey Meadow work project and ride: contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern Sierra Unit)
July 11- 13 Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985
July 25th: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit)
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299
Some of these events are open for the flat land trail rider and some require experience in packing and backcountry riding. Call for more information and join if you are not already a member. Also, many clubs have meetings at private homes, so I will not list meetings unless they are at a public location. Call the organization if you would like to attend meetings and become involved.
June 20th: UC Davis Animal Science Production Sale (530) 754-4156
June 20th: Trout Day Ride: contact Jamie (559) 784-7836 (Sequoia Unit)
June 20th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for United Pegasus Fondation on June 20th, 2009 at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center on 22347 Woodford-Tehachapi Road in Tehachapi, CA .
June 21st: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
June 26-28 Kernville, CA Mule and Donkey Days (760) 378-2222 jporter@lightspeed.net
June 27-29 Food Booth (Springville?) contact Jamie (559) 784-7836
June 27-29 Pack Supplies for ACE contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 9-12 Grey Meadow work project and ride: contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern Sierra Unit)
July 11- 13 Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 15th: ETI Corral 65 meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale Hwy at 7 p.m.
July 18th: Cowboy Race Murrieta, CA (951) 677-5985
July 25th: Mt. Pinos Day Ride and lunch: ETI Corral 65 contact Helen (661) 837-2766
July 25-27: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia)
July 26th: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 1: Day Ride with Kern Sierra Unit (more information to follow)
August 6-9: Maggie Lakes Work Project. contact Joy (661) 399-3603 (Kern sierra Unit)
August 9: "Rancho Rio Open Horse Show Buckle Series" contact Joy at joygirado555@yahoo.com
August 8-10: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
August 22-24: Pack Supplies for ACE: contact Peg (559) 310-3176 (Sequoia Unit)
September 24-28: Montano de Oro Camp and Ride: contact Crystal (559) 972-4299
Monday, June 8, 2009
UPDATE ON STOCKDALE STAGING AREA
Marci Cunningham said...
"Carolyn Belli and I met with KC Water Agency staff and city staff at the staging area in May. We proposed a solution to the equestrian access problem that solved everyone's concerns but it has to go to the water agency's board for approval. The board meeting is not until later in June so we won't have a final solution to announce until after their board meeting."
Sunday, June 7, 2009
EAST OF MING UPDATE
Marci Cunningham has left a new comment on your post "East of Lake Ming" in response to Karen's comment:
"The Nickel property between the golf course and Rancheria Road has a specific trail plan to provide multi use public trails when the property is developed. This specific trail plan was adopted by the city many years ago thanks to the dedicated work of Carolyn Belli. She has recently been working with Jim Nickel on the location of trails as he looks at future development. Most of the continuous equestrian trails will be through the middle portion with trails going to the river for scenic stops. Until the property is developed there is no public access through the ranch but development will include equestrian, hiking and bicycle trails which will be open to the public. "
Karen Sweaney has left a new comment on your post "East of Lake Ming":
"About 14 years ago I boarded my horse at Rio Bravo. The trail that Mary is describing, east from Lake Ming to Rancheria Road, was passable at that time. The service road that I believe she is describing belongs to the Rio Bravo Ranch and is utilized in the Nickell's orange groves, which is where that trail used to funnel out. Once on the ranch property, we would ride to the barn. From that point, there was no access to Rancheria Road without using the dirt roads on the ranch property. The ranch has horse pastures that use the river itself as the northern fence line, so there is no way to pass along the river. When we wanted to get to Rancheria Road, we simply rode out the main entrance road to Rancheria Road.
On a similar note, the trail heading WEST from the day park area, that Mary describes, is well established, and one that I frequent regularly. The trail heads west on the river, just below Lake Ming. As you continue riding, you will share the bike path for about a hundred yards as you pass through the campground. Continue west behind CALM and the soccer park and you will arrive at Hart Park. Again, continue west toward the homes at Goodmanville Road. There is an easement behind these homes, but please pass through QUIETLY as you will be riding in their back yards. The last owner has illegally installed a gate, but the lock is only for looks, reach down and lift the chain. (the red is the editor's note) You will ride along Goodmanville Road for about half a mile before you reconnect with dirt. From here, the trail runs parallel, and very close, to Alfred Harrell Highway. As you crest the top of the hill, you will see Ethel's in the distance."
Thank you Karen for the additional info.
"The Nickel property between the golf course and Rancheria Road has a specific trail plan to provide multi use public trails when the property is developed. This specific trail plan was adopted by the city many years ago thanks to the dedicated work of Carolyn Belli. She has recently been working with Jim Nickel on the location of trails as he looks at future development. Most of the continuous equestrian trails will be through the middle portion with trails going to the river for scenic stops. Until the property is developed there is no public access through the ranch but development will include equestrian, hiking and bicycle trails which will be open to the public. "
Karen Sweaney has left a new comment on your post "East of Lake Ming":
"About 14 years ago I boarded my horse at Rio Bravo. The trail that Mary is describing, east from Lake Ming to Rancheria Road, was passable at that time. The service road that I believe she is describing belongs to the Rio Bravo Ranch and is utilized in the Nickell's orange groves, which is where that trail used to funnel out. Once on the ranch property, we would ride to the barn. From that point, there was no access to Rancheria Road without using the dirt roads on the ranch property. The ranch has horse pastures that use the river itself as the northern fence line, so there is no way to pass along the river. When we wanted to get to Rancheria Road, we simply rode out the main entrance road to Rancheria Road.
On a similar note, the trail heading WEST from the day park area, that Mary describes, is well established, and one that I frequent regularly. The trail heads west on the river, just below Lake Ming. As you continue riding, you will share the bike path for about a hundred yards as you pass through the campground. Continue west behind CALM and the soccer park and you will arrive at Hart Park. Again, continue west toward the homes at Goodmanville Road. There is an easement behind these homes, but please pass through QUIETLY as you will be riding in their back yards. The last owner has illegally installed a gate, but the lock is only for looks, reach down and lift the chain. (the red is the editor's note) You will ride along Goodmanville Road for about half a mile before you reconnect with dirt. From here, the trail runs parallel, and very close, to Alfred Harrell Highway. As you crest the top of the hill, you will see Ethel's in the distance."
Thank you Karen for the additional info.
Friday, June 5, 2009
UPCOMING SUMMER EVENTS
June 6th: Red Cross fundraiser ride. 5 p.m. Start at Rancho Rio and ride to Ethel's. $20 includes ride and BBQ at Old Corral Cafe (Ethel's)Contact: 324-6427
June 11 - 17th: Montano de Oro, contact Laura with ETI. 366-1390
June 29th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for the United Pegasus Foundation at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center. see web site for more information: http://www.ghequestriancenter.com/
July 15th: ETI: 7 p.m. meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale.
July 25th: ETI: Mount Pinos day ride and lunch.
(check back Saturday p.m., I will add BCHC itinerary)
June 11 - 17th: Montano de Oro, contact Laura with ETI. 366-1390
June 29th: The Golden Hills Equestrian Center is hosting a benefit Horse Show for the United Pegasus Foundation at the Golden Hills Equestrian Center. see web site for more information: http://www.ghequestriancenter.com/
July 15th: ETI: 7 p.m. meeting at Cataldo's on Stockdale.
July 25th: ETI: Mount Pinos day ride and lunch.
(check back Saturday p.m., I will add BCHC itinerary)
Thursday, June 4, 2009
The Trails Draw New Citizens to Kern County
Pat M. blogged: "When my husband's Dad, Cliff M., was transferred here to work for Worthington Pump Company to install the pumps for the aquafir and various canal projects, he said he was given a map of greater Bakersfield showing all the riding trails along the river, and a promise that they would remain and be a permanent part of this city's future. This helped him to accept the transfer, since his daughter, Diana, my husband's sister, rode and showed Arabians, and horses were a big part of their life.
Ed. Note: Yes, my friends. Many residents have moved to Kern County or remained here because of the outstanding Equine activities here. Let's keep it country.
Ed. Note: Yes, my friends. Many residents have moved to Kern County or remained here because of the outstanding Equine activities here. Let's keep it country.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
May update on Stockdale staging area
Ed. Note: This was posted by Betty on May 30th and will be found under comments, but I didn't want it to get lost, so here it is again.
I went by the staging area today. (5-30-09) A new chain link fence has been installed that cuts off all access from the East end of the staging area. We used to ride around the end of the fence at the edge of the canal but that is impossible now. Is riding across the bicycle bridge our only option at the moment? I was told horses were not to use the bicycle bridge, has that changed? Betty
Betty, I was just told at a recent meeting that this East end was going to be OPENED UP for us with a gate just for us...guess it didn't happen. Well, back to the city planning meetings and council meetings.
Again, I can't encourage each of you enough to 1) ride these areas 2) document with pictures 3) send pictures and letters to ALL council members and supervisors, 4) go to County and City meetings, and 5) Join equestrian groups.
I went by the staging area today. (5-30-09) A new chain link fence has been installed that cuts off all access from the East end of the staging area. We used to ride around the end of the fence at the edge of the canal but that is impossible now. Is riding across the bicycle bridge our only option at the moment? I was told horses were not to use the bicycle bridge, has that changed? Betty
Betty, I was just told at a recent meeting that this East end was going to be OPENED UP for us with a gate just for us...guess it didn't happen. Well, back to the city planning meetings and council meetings.
Again, I can't encourage each of you enough to 1) ride these areas 2) document with pictures 3) send pictures and letters to ALL council members and supervisors, 4) go to County and City meetings, and 5) Join equestrian groups.
Bakersfield Life Magazine
I would like to thank Bakersfield Life Magazine for their article covering the River Trail issue, http://www.bakersfieldlife.com/ . Lisa Kimble, the writer, was gracious to come out to the river with a photographer and interview quite a few interested riders. Our purpose was to bring a cross section of riders to show that we are a diverse group, that we need the river to train and condition our horses for a myriad of uses, and that it is a non-renewable resource. I would like to thank all of the riders who joined us for this purpose: Wayne Ketcherside, representing the posse, Captain of Mounted Search and Rescue, and a roper, Anthony Mungary, representing the posse, Leeann Fleetwood, representing MSAR (and top contributor for 2008), performance horses and gymkhana, Claudia Payne with daughter Morgan, representing MSAR and gymkhana, Lynn Joiner, representing Backcountry Horsemen of California as state treasurer, Kern Sierra unit president and California Wilderness Rider of 2008, Patty Montoya, member of ETI, BCHC, and MSAR, not shown: Helen Ordway, president of ETI, Roberta Robertson, co-owner of Robertson's Stables on Roberts Lane, and Marian Vargas, member of ETI and interested trail riders all!!!!!
I'd like to thank Lisa, Bakersfield Life Magazine, and all of the riders for showing up to share their concerns. We need all of the exposure we can get.
I attended a recent County Parks meeting and again heard some very encouraging news, equestrians are on the plan...and although I am the eternal optimist, I am new to this struggle. Those who have been on the forefront, although they are not giving up, are frustrated and probably more realistic than I am.
I met Bill Cooper and just received this email from him,
The public land along the river is part of the expanding Kern River Parkway. The Kern River Parkway Committee was fighting for the equestrian trail 30 years ago and still is. Through the committee's efforts there is still river access.There are some things equestrians need to consider. Carving out new routes with chain saws and other equipment is illegal. Some areas are biologically sensitive. Riparian zones are fully protected by state law.If you would like to meet wih us just let us know. We've been at this for a very long time.
Bill Cooper,
Pres.Kern River Parkway Foundation
wtcooper47@AOL
Bill, Rich O'Neil, Marci Cunningham, Carolyn Belli, and W.C. "Billy" and Roberta Robertson are but a few of the county residents who have been working hard to preserve our rights to the river trails. If it weren't for these individuals, and many others (I'd like to have their names) we wouldn't have river trails to fight for!!!
I spent quite a while with Billy today and he gave me a lot of historical information. Unfortunately, I didn't record his comments or take notes (next time I will), but I'd like to note a couple at this time: Billy told me that he has seen records as early as 1936 showing the efforts of the Kern County Rangers and Rangerettes (the early posse?) attempting to preserve a trail along the river. He also said that around 1951, Lloyd Ming, (a county supervisor?) worked with Kern County Land Company, (later Tenneco West and now Castle and Cooke), to develop an extension of Alfred Harrell Highway all the way to Stockdale Hwy and a river parkway all along the route. Too bad this didn't happen. It amazed me to learn about these visionaries. It's easy to come along now when we can see our access being lost, but for individuals in the 30's and 50's to see the importance of preserving that which was essentially "no man's" land really impressed me. Get the word out, attend meetings, help existing groups with getting involved and supporting the work they have been doing for all of US!
I'd like to thank Lisa, Bakersfield Life Magazine, and all of the riders for showing up to share their concerns. We need all of the exposure we can get.
I attended a recent County Parks meeting and again heard some very encouraging news, equestrians are on the plan...and although I am the eternal optimist, I am new to this struggle. Those who have been on the forefront, although they are not giving up, are frustrated and probably more realistic than I am.
I met Bill Cooper and just received this email from him,
The public land along the river is part of the expanding Kern River Parkway. The Kern River Parkway Committee was fighting for the equestrian trail 30 years ago and still is. Through the committee's efforts there is still river access.There are some things equestrians need to consider. Carving out new routes with chain saws and other equipment is illegal. Some areas are biologically sensitive. Riparian zones are fully protected by state law.If you would like to meet wih us just let us know. We've been at this for a very long time.
Bill Cooper,
Pres.Kern River Parkway Foundation
wtcooper47@AOL
Bill, Rich O'Neil, Marci Cunningham, Carolyn Belli, and W.C. "Billy" and Roberta Robertson are but a few of the county residents who have been working hard to preserve our rights to the river trails. If it weren't for these individuals, and many others (I'd like to have their names) we wouldn't have river trails to fight for!!!
I spent quite a while with Billy today and he gave me a lot of historical information. Unfortunately, I didn't record his comments or take notes (next time I will), but I'd like to note a couple at this time: Billy told me that he has seen records as early as 1936 showing the efforts of the Kern County Rangers and Rangerettes (the early posse?) attempting to preserve a trail along the river. He also said that around 1951, Lloyd Ming, (a county supervisor?) worked with Kern County Land Company, (later Tenneco West and now Castle and Cooke), to develop an extension of Alfred Harrell Highway all the way to Stockdale Hwy and a river parkway all along the route. Too bad this didn't happen. It amazed me to learn about these visionaries. It's easy to come along now when we can see our access being lost, but for individuals in the 30's and 50's to see the importance of preserving that which was essentially "no man's" land really impressed me. Get the word out, attend meetings, help existing groups with getting involved and supporting the work they have been doing for all of US!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
JUNE EQUESTRIAN EVENTS
June 6th: Trail Ride from Rancho Rio to Ethel's, starts at 5 p.m. "Riding for the Red", organized by the Red Cross Kern Chapter. All proceeds go to the local disaster relief fund. $20 ticket includes the companionship of other equestrians, beautiful scenery through the Panorama Preserve, a tri-tip sandwich with salad or fries and a non-alcoholic drink. (Will that be one of those fantastic Old Corral Cafe tri-tip sandwiches? Why do their sandwiches taste so much better than all others? Mmmmm) There will be 50/50 tickets, door prizes...(is that a horse trailer door?) and did I mention, a lot of fun! (If I'm reading the moon phases correctly, there will be a full moon rising at 7:42 p.m. Sounds like a nice ride back in the moonlight. If you're an astronomer, let me know.) (posted 5/14/09)
Contact: 324-6427
Contact: 324-6427
Friday, May 8, 2009
East of Lake Ming
Ed. Note: The following blog may be too long for some of you, but I guarantee it has some very good info for all of us in determining the resources and problems of the trail East of Lake Ming. Thank you to Mary for hiking in and documenting this info. Also, thank you for the photos, but I couldn't grab them from the Adobe file, I'll try to get them from Mary on a disc. Someday, we will collate all of this info to present to the County and City.
From MaryNMo, VP of ETI 65. I picked the chunk of trail to explore east of Lake Ming, from that overflow parking lot behind the large group picnic area behind the golf course out there. I had done the Lake Ming to Hart Park ride several times from that parking lot, and once I had seen some people riding horses into it from a trail coming from the east, but I didn’t have time to explore it.
Also, I have friends at Robertson Stable that said that years ago they packed out from Robertson’s Stable, up Rancheria Road, all the way up to their cabin in Alta Sierra. I was just talking to one of them, Alex, the other day, and he was on that pack trip; so maybe he can find the route they used – if it hasn’t been developed over, that is.
However, this past Saturday, I took my camera and hiked that trail that heads east from that parking lot, to see if it was passable enough to explore from on horseback, and these are my findings, so you can post them to the blog.
Well, it was a good thing I didn’t take a horse, because I ran into obstacles within the first quarter mile.
Here are the pics I took, beginning at the parking lot. It is pretty much just a foot trail that fishermen use to get to fishing spots along the river, close to the river bank, and sometimes too close.
A little ways down the trail from the parking lot – good view of the river, not too close to it at this point.
Maybe a couple of hundred yards from the parking lot, fairly close together, were sizeable fallen trees. I think most horses could step over, but the logs were big enough some horses might be tempted to leap, which could cause less experienced riders to get thrown. Trail grooming would be a must here – a good chainsaw could solve these obstacles.
The next picture is of the live growth at the tip of this fallen tree – it is still alive, but the live growth may or may not be considered of significant enough value ecologically to warrant not clearing the path of the log.
The next obstacle across the trail is a low-hanging branch of a live tree. Again, this could be cleared with a chainsaw. But with this obstacle as well as with the fallen trees, there is no way around – only through. This last obstacle would render the trail impassable to horses – even with getting off and leading the horse, the branch too low to walk under and too high to step over – right smack-dab in the middle.
After this point, the trail veers uncomfortably close to the river bank, with way too sheer drop offs on the north side. The trail goes along a fairly narrow lip up against a hill. In some places, it might be possible to widen the trail or push it to the south enough to keep off the edge.
The next shot was taken a short way past the narrow area and is of a tree that had a wild hive of bees in it. I walked very quietly through the middle of the tree, which also was hanging low enough to need to be trimmed back high enough for horses to pass, but it was doable. Relocation of the hive is another issue!
In the earlier photo of those men walking on the trail, I had asked them if they knew how far the trail went. They were a group of fishermen who frequented the area and said the trail went on a bit further then there was a gate. I continued east on the trail, which continued to come too close to the sheer drop-offs to the river for my comfort til I got to an opening in a fence.
The trail had pulled inland a bit by now and I was still able to proceed – the ‘gate’ was mostly just a missing section in the fence where the wire was cut and hanging to the side.
Next, I came to an enclosure for what looked like some pumping equipment, possibly for the nearby housing developments or possibly for the golf course. There was a trail leading towards the river, that may have lead to some fishing holes, but it was so overgrown from disuse, I didn’t want to go down that way to explore it further for fear of snakes. However, I may go back with a big stick to poke vegetation before stepping into it, to see if there might be a way that a trail could be cleared through the area, since the trail to the south side of the compound goes up a steep slope, and although it is passable, it is very steep and ends up on a service road at the top of the incline.
The next photo is of the trail to the river side of the compound.
The next photo is of the trail that goes to the south and inland side of the pumping compound. It was steep, but not impossible for a fairly fit horse – I’ve been on steeper – although a rider may want to let their horse rest a few times; and there are no ledges or obstacles.
This ascent ends at a service road at the top of the incline.
The next picture is of the view across the river from the top of the hill above the pumping compound.
This next pic is of the way eastward, via the service road, toward the canyon. Can’t really see where it might go from this point – but that’s another episode.
When I was talking to those fisherman earlier on the trail, they said there were trails on the north side of the river too that they had used, but they didn’t know if development had interrupted the trails. The above picture was of what I thought I could see of some possible trails on the other side of the river.
Although I might have proceeded toward the canyon on the service road, I was out of time (and I was hiking in my riding boots and my feet were complaining) so I turned back at that point. I headed back west on the service road toward the golf course, hoping maybe to find a different route back to the parking lot, which might also be a candidate route – hopefully wider, not so close to the river drop-offs, with fewer obstacles. No such luck. I had to skirt through a utility yard at the golf course, behind the care-takers home (nice doggy, nice doggy, don’t eat me, I’m just passing through), clinging to the chain-link, hunting for a trail along the fence-line, before realizing there was none. At this point, fairly near the parking lot, my only option was to virtually ski on my boots in the loose dirt down the least steep embankment I came to, in order to descend back to the original river trail.
Synopsis and Forward Thoughts
Well, that was an adventure! I’d like to explore a few more areas in that direction on both sides of the river. I think if we can get a trail going all the way from at least Rancheria Road west to Enos Lane and then put a horse campground in the vicinity of Rancheria Road that it would provide riders to have a variety of options:
Ride up to Alta Sierra via Rancheria Road, or ride down to the horse camp from there.
Ride into the foothills near the Kern Canyon. I know there are some horse properties near the mouth of the Canyon and riders there likely know trails in the area; and the wild flowers in the spring would be a draw to the area for riders from all over the region.
Riding various portions of the Kern River Trail system. Endurance riders may want to do the whole thing (which also means we might in the future be able to attract endurance rides to be held in our area, which might be a boost to local economy). However, to have some nice doable chunks of trail for more casual riders, with nice stopping places with tie-ups, restrooms, refreshment/picnic areas, especially in the vicinity of the more picturesque areas of the river trail. Some chunks might be:
I5 to the staging area at the Aera Park (I’ve heard of a horse camp being proposed at I5, for travelers. A doable chunk during a layover on a trip, to exercise the horses, might be a nice attraction, with some sort of picnic area at Aera Park (yeah right we barely got a staging area).
Aera Park to Yokuts/Beach Park
Yokuts/Beach to Rancho Rio/Robertsons
Rancho Rio/Robertsons to Ethyls
Ethyls to Hart Park Pony Barn
Pony Barn to Lake Ming
Lake Ming to Rancheria Road
Rancheria Road to Alta Sierra (this would probably need to be broken up further)
Having rest areas at each transition point, with staging areas, where feasible, tie-ups, water for horses, picnic tables, restrooms, maybe even further development, such as snackbars/eateries, like at Ethyl’s.
Anyway, these are some of my visions for the trail system. Happy Trails to us all!!!
From MaryNMo, VP of ETI 65. I picked the chunk of trail to explore east of Lake Ming, from that overflow parking lot behind the large group picnic area behind the golf course out there. I had done the Lake Ming to Hart Park ride several times from that parking lot, and once I had seen some people riding horses into it from a trail coming from the east, but I didn’t have time to explore it.
Also, I have friends at Robertson Stable that said that years ago they packed out from Robertson’s Stable, up Rancheria Road, all the way up to their cabin in Alta Sierra. I was just talking to one of them, Alex, the other day, and he was on that pack trip; so maybe he can find the route they used – if it hasn’t been developed over, that is.
However, this past Saturday, I took my camera and hiked that trail that heads east from that parking lot, to see if it was passable enough to explore from on horseback, and these are my findings, so you can post them to the blog.
Well, it was a good thing I didn’t take a horse, because I ran into obstacles within the first quarter mile.
Here are the pics I took, beginning at the parking lot. It is pretty much just a foot trail that fishermen use to get to fishing spots along the river, close to the river bank, and sometimes too close.
A little ways down the trail from the parking lot – good view of the river, not too close to it at this point.
Maybe a couple of hundred yards from the parking lot, fairly close together, were sizeable fallen trees. I think most horses could step over, but the logs were big enough some horses might be tempted to leap, which could cause less experienced riders to get thrown. Trail grooming would be a must here – a good chainsaw could solve these obstacles.
The next picture is of the live growth at the tip of this fallen tree – it is still alive, but the live growth may or may not be considered of significant enough value ecologically to warrant not clearing the path of the log.
The next obstacle across the trail is a low-hanging branch of a live tree. Again, this could be cleared with a chainsaw. But with this obstacle as well as with the fallen trees, there is no way around – only through. This last obstacle would render the trail impassable to horses – even with getting off and leading the horse, the branch too low to walk under and too high to step over – right smack-dab in the middle.
After this point, the trail veers uncomfortably close to the river bank, with way too sheer drop offs on the north side. The trail goes along a fairly narrow lip up against a hill. In some places, it might be possible to widen the trail or push it to the south enough to keep off the edge.
The next shot was taken a short way past the narrow area and is of a tree that had a wild hive of bees in it. I walked very quietly through the middle of the tree, which also was hanging low enough to need to be trimmed back high enough for horses to pass, but it was doable. Relocation of the hive is another issue!
In the earlier photo of those men walking on the trail, I had asked them if they knew how far the trail went. They were a group of fishermen who frequented the area and said the trail went on a bit further then there was a gate. I continued east on the trail, which continued to come too close to the sheer drop-offs to the river for my comfort til I got to an opening in a fence.
The trail had pulled inland a bit by now and I was still able to proceed – the ‘gate’ was mostly just a missing section in the fence where the wire was cut and hanging to the side.
Next, I came to an enclosure for what looked like some pumping equipment, possibly for the nearby housing developments or possibly for the golf course. There was a trail leading towards the river, that may have lead to some fishing holes, but it was so overgrown from disuse, I didn’t want to go down that way to explore it further for fear of snakes. However, I may go back with a big stick to poke vegetation before stepping into it, to see if there might be a way that a trail could be cleared through the area, since the trail to the south side of the compound goes up a steep slope, and although it is passable, it is very steep and ends up on a service road at the top of the incline.
The next photo is of the trail to the river side of the compound.
The next photo is of the trail that goes to the south and inland side of the pumping compound. It was steep, but not impossible for a fairly fit horse – I’ve been on steeper – although a rider may want to let their horse rest a few times; and there are no ledges or obstacles.
This ascent ends at a service road at the top of the incline.
The next picture is of the view across the river from the top of the hill above the pumping compound.
This next pic is of the way eastward, via the service road, toward the canyon. Can’t really see where it might go from this point – but that’s another episode.
When I was talking to those fisherman earlier on the trail, they said there were trails on the north side of the river too that they had used, but they didn’t know if development had interrupted the trails. The above picture was of what I thought I could see of some possible trails on the other side of the river.
Although I might have proceeded toward the canyon on the service road, I was out of time (and I was hiking in my riding boots and my feet were complaining) so I turned back at that point. I headed back west on the service road toward the golf course, hoping maybe to find a different route back to the parking lot, which might also be a candidate route – hopefully wider, not so close to the river drop-offs, with fewer obstacles. No such luck. I had to skirt through a utility yard at the golf course, behind the care-takers home (nice doggy, nice doggy, don’t eat me, I’m just passing through), clinging to the chain-link, hunting for a trail along the fence-line, before realizing there was none. At this point, fairly near the parking lot, my only option was to virtually ski on my boots in the loose dirt down the least steep embankment I came to, in order to descend back to the original river trail.
Synopsis and Forward Thoughts
Well, that was an adventure! I’d like to explore a few more areas in that direction on both sides of the river. I think if we can get a trail going all the way from at least Rancheria Road west to Enos Lane and then put a horse campground in the vicinity of Rancheria Road that it would provide riders to have a variety of options:
Ride up to Alta Sierra via Rancheria Road, or ride down to the horse camp from there.
Ride into the foothills near the Kern Canyon. I know there are some horse properties near the mouth of the Canyon and riders there likely know trails in the area; and the wild flowers in the spring would be a draw to the area for riders from all over the region.
Riding various portions of the Kern River Trail system. Endurance riders may want to do the whole thing (which also means we might in the future be able to attract endurance rides to be held in our area, which might be a boost to local economy). However, to have some nice doable chunks of trail for more casual riders, with nice stopping places with tie-ups, restrooms, refreshment/picnic areas, especially in the vicinity of the more picturesque areas of the river trail. Some chunks might be:
I5 to the staging area at the Aera Park (I’ve heard of a horse camp being proposed at I5, for travelers. A doable chunk during a layover on a trip, to exercise the horses, might be a nice attraction, with some sort of picnic area at Aera Park (yeah right we barely got a staging area).
Aera Park to Yokuts/Beach Park
Yokuts/Beach to Rancho Rio/Robertsons
Rancho Rio/Robertsons to Ethyls
Ethyls to Hart Park Pony Barn
Pony Barn to Lake Ming
Lake Ming to Rancheria Road
Rancheria Road to Alta Sierra (this would probably need to be broken up further)
Having rest areas at each transition point, with staging areas, where feasible, tie-ups, water for horses, picnic tables, restrooms, maybe even further development, such as snackbars/eateries, like at Ethyl’s.
Anyway, these are some of my visions for the trail system. Happy Trails to us all!!!
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