November 20, 2008 5:30 PM parks open at 7:00 AM and close 1/2 hour after sunset Light Snow 24 F (-4 C) Wind From the North at 15 Gusting to 26 MPH
	Winnebago County Forest Preserves' horseback trails were developed to afford horseback riders the opportunity to enjoy riding in the scenic beauty of the preserves. There are 22 miles of mowed trails for horseback riding, found in seven of the County forest preserves: Roland Olson, Sugar River, Oak Ridge, Deer Run, Rockford Rotary, Seward Bluffs and Pecatonica Wetlands. The Pecatonica Wetlands Forest Preserves can be accessed only from the Pecatonica Prairie Path. For a free Recreation Path Guide showing length and locations of equestrian and hiking trails throughout the county, call (815) 877-6100.
	RIDING TRAILS
	Deer Run 593 acres of preserve are filled with 7.5 miles of horse trails that follow the south and north branch of the Kishwaukee River and many other unique natural features. Oak Ridge 5.3 miles of horse trails along the Kishwaukee River, connecting to trails in Deer Run. Rockford Rotary 2.9 miles of trail run throughout this 170-acre preserve. Heavily wooded and overlooking the Kishwaukee River, trail rules are critical here as the soil in this preserve is highly erodible. Equestrian access is provided near the preserve’s entrance off Rotary Road. Roland Olson Donated in 1976 by Mr. and Mrs. Roland Olson, this 127-acre preserve was offered specifically to provide a place for horse riding activities within the County. The preserve has a 60’ x 120’ arena, two hitching posts, and 2.75 miles of bridle trail. Trailer parking is in the preserve near the arena. *By Director’s permit only. Seward Bluffs The trails in this 636-acre preserve cover beautiful country which include spring wildflowers, woodlands and dolomite cliffs. The trails loop to the east and west crossing Grove Creek to provide 7.8 miles of trails. Sugar River Travel to the northern part of the County to take in a double loop trail system in this 524-acre preserve. The 3.6 mile trail goes through oak woodlands, meadows and fields. Much of this preserve is sand prairie, which is a unique and fragile ecosystem that is highly erodible. Therefore, the equestrian trail hugs the east boundary of the preserve, avoiding these natural areas. Future trail plans are slated to connect the Sugar River trail north to Colored Sands and the Sugar River Alder Forest Preserves.
	TRAIL FEES
	Resident & Nonresident Individual $20.00
	TRAIL RULES & RIDING TIPS
	Remember, these trails are shared with hikers, so stay alert and slow your horse to a walk when meeting oncoming users. Here are a few rules to follow to ensure everyone's safety. Horses are allowed only on designated trails. Riders and horses must enter and leave trails at access points only. When meeting on trails, riders must slow their horses to a walk and keep to the right. Refrain from riding when ground conditions are wet or soft. Restrain on blind corners. During November and December, avoid riding in cross-country skier's track.
	© 2008 Winnebago County Forest Preserve District