Trails for Equestrians
Enjoying our valley from the saddle is possible on five out of six trail systems. Be cautious of hikers and bikers on the trails. Cleaning up after your horse at trailheads is greatly appreciated.
The following list is provided roughly in the order of their popularity with equestrians.
Easy to Moderate Rides (generally in order of popularity)
The Fay-Luther Trailhead offers ample parking for trailers and connects you with lots of terrain to explore. Your ride begins in open terrain which leads to trails meandering through pine forest and hills with views. Horses are not allowed between Valley View Loop and Jobs Peak Ranch Trailhead due to foot bridges and easement restrictions through private land.
This 5.2 mile trail gently climbs and wraps around a large hill with continuous views of the Pine Nut and Carson ranges. Be aware that, although not heavily trafficked, this trail is also popular with mountain bikers and hikers.
Parking: The Pinyon Trailhead is a one-way design that accommodates horse trailers parked parallel on the right side. Additional space is available along the road shoulder or the opposite side of Pinenut Road 2.
The Jacks Valley Loop, James Lee Loops and lower Clear Creek Trail are generally beginner level rides. Above Jacks Valley Road, the Clear Creek Trail has some modest drop-offs and there are bridges that riders should walk their horse across for safety. There are some poor sight line corners on the trail so be prepared for other trail users here. Keep in mind these trails, especially above Jacks Valley Road are heavily used by mountain bikers.
Parking: The only parking for horse trailers down low is at the Jacks Valley School Trailhead on the north side of the fenced solar panel area. Parking at the top of the trail at the Spooner Summit Trailhead is possible but heavily used and often full of autos.
Horses are allowed throughout the trail system and the nearby River Fork Ranch Trail System. Be aware that the most challenging section for horses is the first mile above the Genoa Canyon Trailhead. It is highly advised to walk your horse on this section due to very steep drop offs with minimal passing areas. If you don’t have a trained trail horse, avoid this section of trail.
Parking: The main equestrian parking area is signed along Eagle Ridge Road at the junction of Timberline Road. This is just below the Eagle Ridge Trailhead which does not have a trailer turnaround and is for autos only. There is also no trailer parking at the Sierra Canyon and Genoa Canyon Trailheads. Though not signed, trailers could park along the east side of Jacks Valley Road at Centennial Drive, however riders should be comfortable loading and unloading here with passing traffic of 25-35 m.p.h. Additional parking areas around Genoa are possible but very limited.