Imagine an island slightly smaller than Manhattan, but bristling with trees instead of skyscrapers. Instead of cookie cutter streets, it’s an island of curves and hills. The roads are a bicyclist’s dream; the woods are an equestrian’s heaven. And it’s only fifteen minutes from Seattle or Tacoma by ferry.
Whether you’re a competitive equestrian or a backyard trail rider, Vashon Island is sure to please. Trail riders will find an extensive series of trail systems, spanning much of the island. Many of the roads have trails built alongside so you don’t have to ride on the road while getting from one trail system to the next. We have beaches where you can ride in the surf, an exclusive “horses only” trail section where pedestrians, dogs and bicycles won’t spook nervous horses, and an all-around, slowed-down country lifestyle.
For the competitor, we have Paradise Ridge Park. The jewel of Vashon’s horse community, Paradise is a 43-acre public park complete with three arenas (including a full size dressage arena and a large, fenced arena for jumping and equitation), a round-pen, 34 outdoor stalls for shows and other events, and a Pre-Novice/Novice level cross-country course through the woods. Most of the park’s equestrian facilities have been built over the last 20 years by volunteer labor and community donations and the newest project is a covered arena!
Paradise Ridge Park hosts shows, clinic, horse trials and even a weeklong Pony Club camp every year. While the trail systems and Paradise are free for public daily use, shows, lessons and clinics must be scheduled with the Park District. The park hosts two Pre-Novice/Novice horse trails each year, as well as a ‘grasshopper’ (6” jumps) beginner event. Also offered is an original new show, the Riding Horse Versatility Show. Set up like a horse trial, this show tests horses abilities, willingness and manners as they do ground-handling, arena work and trail. To inquire about upcoming events, contact the Vashon Park District at www.vashonparkdistrict.org.
This summer, Vashon Island is again hosting the AQHA benefit ride at Tom Stewart’s magnificent Misty Isle Farm. The ride takes trail riders through Stewart’s “horse-only” trail system, as well as Paradise Ridge Park’s cross country course, and for those who want to take the ‘long ride,’ many of the island’s other trail systems as well. Last year’s ride, though planned at last minute when their other site fell through, was a roaring success and there is an even larger turnout anticipated this year. The ride benefits the Vashon-Maury Island Horse Association and its efforts to build a covered arena at the park, and is open to riders of all breeds. For information on this year’s ride, see the ad in this issue or contact Marie Bradley at (206)-463-2065.
Copyright © 2009 The NW Horse Source, LLC
Top of Page
|
