KCEHC Trail Guide

King County Executive Horse Council

About the Trail Guide

This trail guide serves two purposes:

  1. to give riders information about where they can ride, and
  2.  to increase awareness of horse trails in King County.

This guide provides information about publicly-accessible horseback trails within the lower elevations of King County. Riders who wish to take their equine companions on day trips within easy reach of their homes or barns need to know where they can go, and what to expect when they get there, and a trail guide aimed at hikers or bicyclists doesn't always give the information a horseperson would need. The goal of this guide is to provide that information. If there is data missing that you would like to see in this guide, or inaccuracies in the information provided, please let us know.

Future improvements planned for the Trail Guide: photo galleries for each trail; blog-style status updates for each trail; maps for driving directions and for the trails themselves; printer-friendly info pages and maps.

Leave No Trace

Horseback riders should be especially careful to leave as little impact upon the land as possible, so that public trails and private lands will remain open to us. Some tips:

  • stay on the trail and don't cut switchbacks, as horse hooves can churn up more dirt than feet or wheels
  • if possible, step off the trail or swing your horse's rear off the trail if it drops manure; if possible, dismount and kick manure off the trail if the surface is paved or otherwise non-natural
  • don't let your horse graze on the landscaping or sensitive native vegetation
  • remove all manure, hay, and other debris from your parking area. Pack it out in your rig if that's the only option. Refill any pawed holes.

Trail Etiquette

To ensure continued horse access to trails and public areas, please be considerate of other trail users and follow the basic rules of etiquette. Some of the points below are law, some are just good manners:

  • Keep your horse under control and away from other trail users. Some people are afraid of horses and will be much happier with them at a distance.
  • Walk your horse past other trail users if the trail is narrow. Give audible warnings when necessary, and cheerful greetings when possible. A smile makes friends.
  • Obey all trail rules and respect 'No Trespassing' signs. Follow 'Leave No Trace' guidelines.
  • Do not block gates or other users when parking.
  • Leave all gates as you found them: close them if they were closed, open if they were open.

For more details on trail rules, see the King County regulations regarding trail use.