For Consideration:
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The Oak Creek Trail
is a shared trail. Be prepared to meet other trail users such has hikers,
bikers & joggers.
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To preserve the surface for other trail users, the NRD requests that horses
stay on designated
horse trails and do not ride on the limestone except where no parallel
exists.
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This is not a difficult trail. It is approximately 12 miles round trip. The
entire distance to Loma is a gradual incline with some steep hills on the horse
trail. Keep be sure your horse (and you!) are in proper condition for a 12
miles ride.
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This trail has many bridge crossings. If your horse will not cross the bridge,
for your safety and others, please dismount and walk your horse across the
bridge. Don't be afraid to ask a safety rider for assistance.
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The riders usually return to Valparaiso around 3:00 - 4:00. Many women take the
return trip at their own speed or leisure.
Directions:
Valparaiso, Nebraska is located 14 miles north of Lincoln on Hwy. 79. (If
coming from the north, Valparaiso is 10 miles south of Hwy. 92 on Hwy. 79). The
trailhead can be found in downtown Valparaiso, just about 3 blocks west of Hwy.
79. There is ample parking at the trail head & assistance will be available
should you need help with parking.
Please also note:
·
No stallions. Many
mares are in season right now.
·
Bring a halter & lead
rope for your horse, as you may need it when we stop in Loma for lunch. Water
for your horses will be available in Loma in a community bucket. There are no
bathroom facilities in Loma. Make use of those trees & brush along the way!
·
If your horse kicks,
tie a red ribbon on its tail. And if you see a red ribbon on a tail, keep your
distance as that denotes the horse may kick.
·
Use good trail
manners. If you don't know, ask.
·
Be a good trail user.
Many times we are on shared trails. Be respectful to other trail users and
follow all rules regarding that specific trail. Horse trails are a privilege,
not a right.
·
If you are going to
change the pace of your ride, please go ahead of the group or stay behind the
group & always tell the group of your intentions. Never run up on the group or
another individual rider if you have elected to stay behind.
·
Bring a shovel &
clean up any manure left around your trailer before departing the trail head.
Do not litter. Pack out what you pack in.
·
No dogs. Sorry, we
love them, too, but not all horses are accustomed to dogs. It’s only for a few
hours... they'll understand.
As in the past, a few
good men will be riding as safety riders. This is important to me so that all
the women on the ride can enjoy the day -- me included -- without having to
attend to the small incidents that may interrupt a ride this size. These men
play an important role in assisting riders with tack problems, medical
emergencies and other unexpected happenings along the trail. Please tip your
hat to these cowboys & thank them for donating their time so that we can enjoy
our ride.
For further
information about this ride, email
Tammy Vasa at
tvasa@nntc.net . Check this website for updates.
WARNING: Under Nebraska Law, an
equine professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant
in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities,
pursuant to sections 25-21,249 to 25-21,253
