Explore HCA on horseback and enjoy the areas in a whole different way. Horses are permitted in some HCA areas, and all equestrians should familiarize themselves with the points below.
HCA areas are closed on a seasonal basis due to ice and the spring thaw. Closures will be posted on our website.
The HCA Membership Pass allows one vehicle and one horse entry to the areas where horses are permitted.
Where are horses allowed?
Horses are only permitted on multi-use trails at:
- Christie Lake
- Dundas Valley
- Westfield Heritage Village.
Additional Dundas Valley Information
- Parking for horse trailers is only available at the main Dundas Valley parking lot, located at 650 Governor’s Road. Day-use corrals are also available here in the main parking lot.
- All Dundas Valley Conservation Area trails are open to equestrians, but seasonal closures may be in effect. The Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail remains open year-round to horses.
Know your Responsibilities
- Remember, trail users may not know what to do around horses or may be intimidated by large horses.
- Galloping on HCA trails is NOT permitted.
- Manage your animals and don’t bring ‘green’ horses into HCA areas. Familiarize horses with expected trail encounters, such as; cyclists, dogs, strollers, etc.
- Negotiate safe passes.
- Greet users early. Hikers and cyclists should yield to horses, but many trail-users can be intimidated by horses or don’t know what to do.
- Keep to the right of the trail. When passing others, always pass in a single file at a walk.
- Expect the unexpected. Small children, animals and the elderly can be unpredictable or frightened by horses.
- Stay on trail at all times. Do not ride in mowed fields, into creek or stream beds or off designated trails.
- Kick or otherwise remove manure from the trail.
- Riders should keep their group size to eight (8) horses or less – large groups can lead to safety issues on trails with other users.
