OUTDOOR CORNER: NEW CASTOR RIVER RIDING TRAIL OPENS FOR HORSE ENTUSIASTS

The Missouri Department of Conservation has recently opened a new horse riding trail on the Castor River Conservation Area in Bollinger County.

The horse trail is a 15-mile loop if ridden it its entirety. There are options to make it shorter -- without doubling back -- if preferred.

The trail runs predominately through forested areas. It mostly follows old logging trails. The trail is marked by yellow signs with numbered mile markers for reference. Maps are available at the trailhead parking lot/

The trailhead has a large parking lot designed to easily accommodate trailer parking and maneuvering. Camping is allowed in designated areas around the parking lot, but restrooms, water and electric or not provided. Water for horses at the trailhead in not yet provided either. Streams and wildlife waterholes can provide water for horses along the trail.

The trail is opened at all times except during the fall firearms deer season and spring turkey season. It is hoped that riders will discipline themselves to not ride where the ground is too wet. Trail rides of 10 or more horses is allowed only if a special use permit is obtained first. For a permit, contact the marble Hill Forestry Office at 238-2321.

The Castor River Conservation Area is located along Highway 23, 15 miles west of Marble Hill. To reach the trailhead parking lot, turn south on Highway Y a half mile east of the Highway 34/Castor River bridge. Continue to go straight at the end of the pavement on Highway Y on the gravel road for a half mile.

For a number of reasons, we cannot provide for horse riding on all our conservation areas. We have selected this area because of its central location, large size and proper soil type. We hope to improve it over the years.

We hope riders will enjoy it and help us take care if it. Feel free to call any of our Missouri Department of Conservation offices for more information.

Mike Anderson is a forester with the Missouri Department of Conservation.