There are many examples of large cities with excellent shared use trail systems, bridleways and equestrian parks and a general recognition that New Zealand's obsession with creating roads for vehicle only use is the wrong way to build urban communities.
The following examples show how bridleways, horse parks and multi-use trails are being created for economic, recreation and health benefits to the community.
Urban Bridleways and Equestrian Parks
Sweden
Downtown Stockholm
Link to full photo album (courtesy Doug Hunt)
USA
Phoenix, Arizona. USA. Arizona Horse Lovers Park & Reach 11 Recreation Area
Phoenix is a city of about the same size as Auckland (1.5 million people). Reach 11 Recreation Area is a 1500 acre park that is currently being extended to include a major sports complex. The recreation area is approximately 7 miles long and less than 1/2 mile wide. It currently includes an equestrian centre, hiking and riding trails, and wildlife/nature desert areas. The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department provides a variety of programs for people of all ages and ability levels.
Brooklyn, Central Park New York
Right in the centre of one of the world's largest cities, New York, there are bridlepaths and equestrian recreation areas.
National and Regional Trail Systems
An 18,000 kilometre recreational corridor winding its way through every Province and territory, linking 800 communities along its route. When completed, this will be the longest trail of its kind in the world, connecting all regions. The Trail accommodates five core activities: walking, cycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Some sections of the trail also accommodate trail bikes and ATVs.
Amongst the reasons given for this immense project are that it is a stimulus for local economies e.g. bed and breakfasts and support services.
Crychan Trails is a partnership between the Crychan Forest Association and Forestry Commission Wales. They provide trails for horse-riding, carriage driving, walking and cycling. Crychan Forest is one of many recreation areas and bridleways in Wales, encouraged as part of the country’s eco and adventure tourism initiatives.
International Bridleways
Yes! International routes and public access ways exist.
For instance, the Sbrinz Packhorse Route. In 2003, an old, almost-forgotten packhorse route was reopened. It runs from just south of Lucerne, Switzerland to Domodossola in Northern Italy.
Go to "Riding Through Europe" for more information
