The North Salem Hack

Meet our exceptional imported Irish horses at our MRC Sale Barn in North Salem. This is a unique opportunity to experience a thoughtfully curated ride through the stunning North Salem trails aboard one of our sales horses.

We’ll walk, trot, and canter through open fields and wooded trails, with the option to pop over natural jumping obstacles along the way. Most rides are led by MRC Founder Melissa or her husband Anthony—we look forward to sharing these special horses and this incredible setting with you.

Please note: $50 per ride is a fee to the NSBTA. Riders who join more than three Hacks are required to become NSBTA Members for $200 (click here for details).

Schedule

• Optional: Arrive 30 minutes early to groom and tack your horse
• Ride start time: mount and set off for the hack
• Enjoy approximately 1.5 hours in the saddle
• Optional: Stay to help untack and bathe your horse

If you’re short on time or prefer not to groom/tack/untack, we’re happy to assist—however, most riders find this to be a meaningful part of the experience. We kindly ask that all riders arrive at least 10 minutes before ride time to ensure a smooth start for the group.

What’s Included

• Your horse
• Quality tack to ride in
• 1.5-hour guided ride
• Access to the members-only NSBTA trail system
  
• A small group of fellow MRC riders

The Horses

Our horses are sourced through MRC and our trusted Irish partners. They are a mix of Irish Draught and Irish Sport Horses imported for sale.

These horses are thoughtfully selected and regularly schooled in open spaces and over fences. Most are between 4–6 years old, making them talented and athletic, and best suited for confident riders looking to enjoy a forward, responsive ride.

The Setting

The North Salem Bridle Trails Association maintains over 100 miles of interconnected trails spanning North Salem, NY and Ridgefield, CT. These historic trails are some of the most beautiful in the Eastern United States and are carefully preserved to protect the area’s unique “horse country” character.

Riders can expect a dynamic and scenic experience including:

• Wooded trails
• Open fields
• Water crossings
• Natural jumping obstacles
• Varied terrain

Rider Level

Level 3b+ (approval required)

Riders must:

• Be approved through an MRC Evaluation
• Confidently control a horse in open space
• Have strong awareness of surroundings and group riding
• Be comfortable riding forward horses

Jumping is optional. An evaluation ride is required.

Attire

Casual riding attire:

• Tall boots or paddock boots with half chaps
• Breeches
• Helmet (required)

Recommended:

• Safety vest
• Gloves
• Crop

Riders are welcome to bring their own saddles or stirrup leathers/irons if preferred.

Location

North Salem, NY

Transportation

Train: Metro-North Harlem Line to Purdy’s Station
(Please arrange a transfer in advance, as rideshare services are limited)

Driving: Approximately 60 miles from Midtown Manhattan

Carpool: Access to MRC’s private Facebook carpool group

Make a Day of It

If you’d like to enjoy the area before or after your ride:

• Hayfields – café
• One Twenty One – restaurant
• Purdy’s Farmer & the Fish – restaurant