Trail Boss: Sky Baldwin
Date: August 14-17, 2023
Horse Ranch Park was the location for this trip, and as the forest ranger once said to me, “Oh, you mean Horse Disneyland!” I think his comment stems from the fact that trail riders come from all over the United States to camp and ride here, and it is a very popular destination. It is located about 19.5 miles up County Road 12 which is 15 miles north of Paonia on Hwy 133. It is close to Kebler Pass and is at an elevation of 8800 ft.
I was joined by 4 other saddle club members who had never been to this area before: Traci Shalow, Maggie Rinker, CJ Simmers, and Brenda Burge (with camp husband Biff). I think everyone was impressed with the stunning views and profusion of wildflowers. Our trails took us into two wilderness areas—the West Elks and the Raggeds. I say the scenery is “ Quintessential Colorado”, and it does not get any better than in this location. We rode different trails over a three-day period with varying levels of difficulty.
Groups always take a chance here on the weather and on finding enough camping space, since it is dispersed camping on a first come first serve basis. We were fortunate to have both good weather and plenty of space for electric corrals and high lines. We had great camp dinners and plenty of conversation at the end of each day. I don’t know why but every WSCSC event I have ever been too has had especially delicious food, and it was certainly true on this camp out.
