At Land Trust of Santa Cruz we like to say we have a “big tent”. We believe in providing public access opportunities to everyone. We have quiet trails for hikers, we have fun trails for mountain bikers, we have a pond where folks can boat or fish, we include dogs whenever possible and at Antonelli Pond they can even be off leash. Now we have added equestrians to our tent.

Last weekend we opened equestrian access at the east Glenwood Open Space Preserve. Equestrians have their own parking area on Canham Road. Their ride begins in a beautiful meadow and crosses a creek to meet up with the hiking trails. Riders are allowed anywhere, on and off trail, in the equestrian designated portion of the preserve. Early feedback tells us we’ve created a lovely, but challenging riding experience. If all goes well, we will increase riding opportunities by opening other parts of the east preserve to riders. Horses have a long history at the east preserve so it’s good to see them again.

We look forward to including equestrians in our future projects, such as the 38 miles of trails we plan to build at San Vicente Redwoods. Happy trails!