From Jan. 28-30, the Kentucky Horse Council (This year, for the first time, the Summit will offer two sessions designed for the brand new trail rider. These sessions will address how to prepare a horse for the trail, how to prepare the rider for the trail, trail saddles and gear, and how to link into the Kentucky trail riding community.

This year, for the first time, the Summit will offer two sessions designed for the brand new trail rider. These sessions will address how to prepare a horse for the trail, how to prepare the rider for the trail, trail saddles and gear, and how to link into the Kentucky trail riding community.

"Trail riding is the only segment of the Kentucky horse community that is not contracting in these difficult economic times", says Anna Zinkhon, president of the KHC Board. "Retiring baby boomers are choosing the trail over the show ring and often choosing horses over other recreational options. We are also seeing retirees move here from other states specifically to trail ride, due to Kentucky's horse reputation, its moderate climate, and its accessibility to transportation. This trail summit recognizes the need for education in protecting Kentucky's trails and keeping trail riders safe."

In addition to the trail beginners' classes, the Summit offers a full day of presentations on topics ranging from conservation ethics, trail competition sports, models for trail riding businesses, and orienteering, among others