The Bedford Hack

Have you spent most of your riding career in an arena? Testing your skills in open space can be an exhilarating experience. This ride offers a rare opportunity to gallop across fields and jump over cross country obstacles. All jumps are optional and can be avoided. Immerse yourself in nature's true beauty on horses that are conditioned for the environment! Enjoy this ride with a group of up to 8 riders covering around 5 miles at the walk, trot and canter. The historic riding terrain includes water crossings, woodlands, open fields with logs, coops, stone walls, roll tops and more.

SCHEDULE
9:45AM Arrival and meet the group
10:00AM Getting horses off the trailer and mounting
10:15AM The group sets off on the trails
12:00PM Return to meeting location, dismount, load horses on trailer

INCLUDED

• A groomed and tacked horse
• 2 hour ride
• Access to the members-only BRLA trail system
• Experienced trainer and owner of the horses to lead
• Up to 6 other MRC riders to enjoy the trails with

HORSES
The horses are trailered from our training facility in Pawling. There are a variety of breeds with different personalities, trained for open space riding, foxhunting, hunter paces and used in our lessons. Mixed breeds from spirited thoroughbreds to quieter draft breeds.

SETTING
Officially founded in 1920, the BRLA maintains more than 100 linear miles of historic trails which connect and extend throughout Bedford, Mount Kisco, Katonah, Bedford Hills, Bedford Corners and Pound Ridge. Members meandering the trails enjoy the beautiful flora, fauna and other natural wonders that make our community unique. This trail system is one of the largest remaining networks of private trails. The BRLA maintains and clears the trails year-round to ensure that they are preserved for future generations.

Riders must be in regular lessons and able to confidently control a horse in open space. Jumping is optional. All riders need a high level of awareness to ensure the safety of riders and horses. Level 4 Advanced Hacks do require previous approval through a Level 3 Hack, Evaluation Ride or Bootcamp. 

ATTIRE
Casual riding attire.

• Tall riding boots or paddock boots and half chaps
• Breeches
• Equestrian helmet
• Recommended: Safety vest, gloves, crop

If you would like to ride in your own saddle, please email us after you book and we will try to accommodate based on your horse pairing.

LOCATION
Bedford, NY

TRANSPORTATION

• MetroNorth Train: MTA Harlem Line from Grand Central to Katonah or Bedford Hills. If taking the train please inquire ahead of time if there is a driver in the group who can offer a pick up. Otherwise please schedule a taxi in advance as Uber and other car service apps do not have good coverage in this area.
• Driving: 45 miles from Midtown
• Carpool: Riders have access to MRC's private carpooling group on Facebook. It's a great opportunity to connect with other riders and coordinate travel plans together

LOCAL SUGGESTIONS
The Horse Connection- tack shop
RIDE- tack shop
The Whitlock- tavern next to the Katonah train station