ATTENTION ALL TRAIL RIDERS:

Attached is a General Press Release from the Department of Environmental Protection reminding all users of the trail rules. Unfortunately, because there have been reports to DEP recently on some incidents regarding horseback riders, this release is very timely. CHC has been asked to assist in getting information out to all equestrians.  Please take the time to read this and remember to respect the trails and other people using trails.

CHC works very hard to keep equestrian access on multi-purpose trails and to promote trail etiquette.  When incidents of bad behavior occur – it jeopardizes every equestrian’s opportunity to ride on public lands.

One serious report to CHC recently came from a 65 year old woman who was walking with a large group of people at Bluff Point in April.  Two men with cowboy hats were racing their horses up a hill on a trail and had no sight lines.  The group of people had to move quickly off the trail and the woman fell backwards over a stone wall and was bruised.  The rider’s horses spooked and the riders continued on without stopping to assist or apologize for their bad behavior.  It was also reported by our CHC-Volunteer Horse Patrol Coordinator on that particular day that he had to ask several riders to get off the sand dunes more than once.  It was also reported that people were seen galloping their horses in and out of the water near the picnic tables.

This should not have to be said – but apparently this behavior needs to be addressed.

KEEP YOUR HORSES OUT OF THE RIVER, OFF THE DUNES AND BE COURTEOUS ON THE BEACH.  THERE SHOULD BE NO RUNNING OR GALLOPING ON TRAILS OR BEACHES AND IN AREAS WHERE THERE ARE OTHER PEOPLE AND ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU HAVE NO SIGHT LINES!

KEEP ALL TRAIL HEADS CLEAR – HAVE A FORK AND BROOM TO CLEAN UP AND BRING IT BACK IN YOUR TRAILER WHEN IN A PARKING LOT.
 
WHAT YOU LEAVE BEHIND IS SEEN BY OTHERS.
 
Most equestrians are respectful and polite, but the few who are not can ruin it for all riders.  CHC appreciates all those who follow the rules and make an effort to be ambassadors for our industry. Please encourage good behavior in your riding companions.
 
For more information on trail etiquette, please visit the Connecticut Horse Council website at www.cthorsecouncil.org .
 
Below is a Press Release from the Department of Environmental Protection

Diane Ciano
CT Horse Council Trails Chairperson
 
 

P   R   E  S   S         R   E   L   E   A  S   E

Connecticut DEP Recreational Trail Use Information

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) wants to remind trail users of rules and trail etiquette now that warmer weather is here and many people will be spending time outdoors in Connecticut’s state parks and forests.  To make your outdoor experience as safe and enjoyable as possible, the DEP recommends following the tips below to ensure your experience will be a positive one.  

State park and forest recreation areas operation hours - daily between sunrise and sunset.

What you can and cannot do on the trails:

  • Trails and service, logging and other roads are open to non-motorized, multiple use activities (foot travel, mountain biking, equestrian) unless posted closed.
  • Connecticut Blue-Blazed Hiking Trails and the National Park Service Appalachian Trail are limited to hiking except where they overlap a multiple use trail.
  • Public roadways in state parks and forests are open to registered motor vehicles (includes registered dirt bikes) and non-motorized multiple uses unless posted closed.
  • Effective January 1, 2006, riding an ATV on state or municipal property may result in charges of criminal trespass. (Public Act 05-234) At the current time, Connecticut does NOT have any public areas open to quads.  
  • Registered dirt bikes can ride on the motorized trail at Pachaug State Forest or at the Thomaston Dam (visit http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/recreati/tmd/tmdhome.htm ).
  • Trail building and maintenance is illegal unless authorized.  To request permission to put in a new trail contact DEP’s Trails Coordinator at 860-424-3578.  For permission to perform trail maintenance contact the Park Supervisor.
  • After it rains, please be aware of fragile areas that should be avoided such as wetlands and steep slopes. For your safety and to prevent erosion and disruption of habitats always avoid travel through streams that have no bridges or stepping stones.
If you see an illegal activities please call the State Environmental Conservation Police (EnCon) at:  860 424-3333.

Essential for Safe Trail Use:  
  • Always let others know where you are and when you expect to return.  
  • Be aware where hunting is allowed and if hunting season is open.  Wear bright orange for extra protection.
  • Remain on trails that are blazed.
  • Cyclists and motorized users yield to pedestrians and equestrians.  Pedestrians yield to equestrians.
  • Park in designated areas only.
  • Keep your dogs on a leash.
  • Respect private property - when you are leaving State Land you may no longer have permission to recreate.
Plan your route! Trail maps are often found trail heads and always found on the DEP

Website:  http://www.ct.gov/dep/parkmaps
Cyndy Chanaca, Office of Communications
CT DEP - 79 Elm Street, Hartford, CT   06106