Update on trials from Randy Winter, BCHA Trail Liaison
March 26, 2020
Many of you may wonder if it is okay to ride your horse on Boulder County Open Space during the current COVID-19 regulations. Today, Cheryl Winter and some friends were out riding on Boulder County Open Space, and were approached by a maintenance worker. They discussed whether they should be out riding their horses on the trail or not. Later in the day, Randy spoke with a Sheriff’s officer who thought it was okay seeing as “pet exercise” is allowed. Afterwards he received the following replies from Alison Ecklund, Community Relations Coordinator, City of Boulder Open Space, and Eric Lane, Parks and Open Space Manager.
Randy thought we should let our members in the horse community know that they can ride the trails as long as riders comply with Social Distancing Requirements.
Hi Randy,
I hope you are doing well. Yes, we double-checked with our city attorney this morning and this is what we heard back: The language around outdoor activity is “To engage in outdoor activity individually or in groups of no more than four persons, provided each individual complies with Social Distancing Requirements as defined in this Paragraph 5, such as, by way of example and without limitation, walking, hiking, biking or running.” Since it’s by way of example, horseback riding and climbing, since they are individual activities would seem to be okay.
Please help pass that on, along with the 6-foot distancing!
Thanks,
Alison
Hi Randy,
Thanks for asking. As long as the trails are open to use, all permitted uses (hiking, running, cycling, horseback riding, etc.) are still allowed. We are urging and strongly advising visitors to maintain social distancing (a little easier when you’re on a horse) from any other visitors, particularly those not from your household. Be aware that some of our trailheads are getting pretty busy, especially in the evening and weekends. From what I’ve seen, people have been doing a good job of respecting the horse trailer parking but it could be a problem when other visitors get frustrated as lots get full.
Enjoy the trails – just be safe!
Eric
Thanks for asking. As long as the trails are open to use, all permitted uses (hiking, running, cycling, horseback riding, etc.) are still allowed. We are urging and strongly advising visitors to maintain social distancing (a little easier when you’re on a horse) from any other visitors, particularly those not from your household. Be aware that some of our trailheads are getting pretty busy, especially in the evening and weekends. From what I’ve seen, people have been doing a good job of respecting the horse trailer parking but it could be a problem when other visitors get frustrated as lots get full.
Enjoy the trails – just be safe!
Eric
