Rochester Trail Riders

The Finger Lakes National Forest is proposing expanded mountain bike access in the Hector Ranger District. No existing horse trails are being removed, but many will become shared-use. Key Points: 9 miles of user-created bike trails proposed for designation 4 miles closed and revegetated 2.7-mile Sassafras Loop added 0.35-mile reroute on Backbone Trail 24 miles of existing trails opened to bike use...

Hunting Season Safety & Exciting Updates from the NYS Horse Council This week, Lindsay shares some exciting news—she’s stepped into the role of Regional Vice President for the Finger Lakes with the New York State Horse Council . That means our equestrian community now has another strong voice advocating for safe trails, fair access, and horse-friendly policies in Monroe, Wayne, Ontario, Living...

🐴 Episode Summary: Spring is finally here, and that means it's time to knock the mud off your boots and get back in the saddle. But is your horse ready? In this episode of Rochester Trail Riders , Lindsay walks you through the key areas to focus on when bringing your horse back into trail condition after a winter break. From rebuilding physical strength to improving coordination and mental r...

Spring is here, which means mud season is in full swing! One minute, you’re cruising down the trail, the next—your horse is knee-deep in muck, and you’re questioning all your life choices. With so many RTR members asking about the best trails and how to handle the mud , this episode is here to help! In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ How to pick the right trails to avoid turning your ride into a slip-a...

Spring is here, and if your horse looks like a shaggy yak, congratulations—you’ve made it through another winter! But now it’s time to help them shed that winter coat and get ready for warmer weather. In this episode, we’ll cover:  ✅ Why horses shed (hint: it’s about daylight, not temperature!)  ✅ The best tools & techniques to speed up the process  ✅ How grooming supports overall skin heal...

In this episode, we break down the March 5th public meeting about the Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area trail proposal and what it means for equestrian riders. Right now, horseback riding is not officially allowed in the park—but that could change. 🔹 Why the trail system is being reviewed  🔹 How the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQRA) process will impact the timeline 🔹 What...

Hey there, I'm Lindsay LaBella, your fellow trail enthusiast and host of "Rochester Trail Riders." Join me as I venture back onto the beloved Lehigh Valley Trail, picking up where I left off in Rush, New York, and taking you all the way to Victor. Each episode is a mix of my personal trail riding and hiking adventures, sharing every step of my journey from trailhead to trail end. To...

Welcome to a special edition of the Rochester Trail Riders podcast. I am Lindsay LaBella, and today I provide an important update from Mendon Ponds Park. This episode discusses the collaborative efforts between local riders, Monroe County Parks, and Tractor Supply of Caledonia to enhance the cleanliness and beauty of our park. Thanks to community involvement and generous support from Tractor Suppl...

Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into a not-so-talked-about yet critical issue impacting our parks and equestrian trails: horse manure management. We explore the ecological, health, and political ramifications of leaving horse manure unmanaged and propose a community-driven solution to ensure our parks remain beautiful and accessible for everyone. What You'll Learn: The Importance of...

Join host Lindsay LaBella, a seasoned trail enthusiast and the coordinator of Rochester Trail Riders, as she dives into the heart of the Finger Lakes National Forest to discuss a proposed mountain biking enhancement project. In this episode, Lindsay explores the delicate balance between enhancing recreational opportunities for mountain bikers and preserving the trail experience for equestrians. Se...

Join Lindsay LaBella, a seasoned trail rider with a knack for adventure, as she embarks on a picturesque journey along the historic Lehigh Valley Trail in Monroe County, New York. In this episode, the first of a potential three-part series, Lindsay takes listeners on a detailed tour from River Road in Caledonia to Rush, New York. Covering the first five miles of this storied trail, she shares her...

Tune in to this candid episode of "Rochester Trail Riders" with your host, Lindsay, who brings humor and honesty to a sensitive topic—knowing when you're too heavy to ride your horse. After a winter of indulgence in comfort foods, Lindsay discusses her personal experiences and the impact of weight on horse riding. She uses her own journey to shed light on the responsibility riders h...

In this episode, join Lindsay as she navigates the unpredictable journey of winter returning to Rochester, shares the bustling life of kidding season, and the challenges and joys of managing a farm. Despite the chaos, Lindsay brings to light some crucial topics for equine enthusiasts and farm owners alike. - **Tax Season Tips for Hobby Farms**: Dive into insightful advice from a tax expert on diff...

In today's episode, we delve into the world of equine nutrition with the expertise of Dr. Tania Cubitt, as we tackle a significant concern for horse owners: Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). With a lively discussion hosted by Lindsay LaBella, we cover the critical aspects of managing EMS through dietary strategies. Key Points from the episode: **Defining EMS**: Dr. Cubitt provides a comprehens...

Welcome to this episode where we explore Lindsay LaBella’s unique approach to Lyme disease prevention. After a close encounter with tick-borne dangers, Lindsay turned to an unexpected ally: a flock of guinea hens. We’ll discuss how these birds are more than just charming barnyard animals—they’re a proactive step towards natural pest control. Get ready to learn about the benefits and challenges of...

Today's episode features Steve French, the intrepid traveler from Pack Paddle and Ski, who shares his captivating experiences from a horseback trek across Mongolia. Dive into a narrative filled with the spirit of adventure as Steve describes navigating the challenging terrains of one of the most remote landscapes on earth. Steve offers insights into the heart of Mongolia's equestrian cul...

Embark on a historical adventure with Rochester Trail Riders, where Lindsay and guest Rae Lombino weave a tapestry of personal tales and the curious connections of Rochester's past. They explore the unexpected link between a mysterious figure akin to Colonel Sanders, the obsolete trade of buggy whips, and the dawn of modern photography. This episode is a delightful concoction of humor, hardsh...

Lindsay is joined by Jennifer from Second Wind Stable Transport for an eye-opening discussion on the art of horse hauling. They delve deep into what it takes to transport these majestic animals safely, the importance of being prepared for emergencies, and the nuances of navigating regulations. If you’ve ever wondered about the complexities behind equine transport, this episode is your gateway to u...

Embark on a journey through the serenity of a snow-covered landscape with "Winter's Unbroken Trail: Therapy on Horseback," a podcast that whisks you away to the tranquility of the barn and beyond. Join Evelyn and her faithful steed, Pip, as they carve the first set of tracks in a world magically transformed overnight. Experience the quiet companionship of the barn life, the anticipa...

This podcast episode provides an insightful guide for beginners on starting horseback riding lessons. It discusses how to choose the right lesson program, what to expect during lessons, the essential attire and safety gear needed, and the physical expectations and rewards of riding. Special attention is given to the inclusivity of the sport, with a nod to programs like EquiCenter that cater to rid...

Join us as we recount the hidden treasures of the Genesee County Park and Forest, where the whispers of history meet the laughter of today’s adventures. In this episode, we’ve trotted down memory lanes and carved new paths, experienced the thrill of discovery, and the joy of companionship with our trusty steeds, Tuna and Harley. We navigated through the park’s sprawling beauty, tested by the terra...

In this episode of Rochester Trail Riders, host Lindsay delves into the community's goals for the new year, covering practical and aspirational topics such as riding improvement, training techniques, and personal well-being. With listener-contributed ambitions in focus, this episode offers a real look into setting and pursuing meaningful objectives in the equestrian world. Rochester Trail Rid...

In this episode we embark on the first 18 miles of the Genesee Valley Greenway, traversing from Rochester to Avon. This historic trail, repurposed from a railroad and canal, is a testimony to the region's natural splendor and history. Our host Lindsay, along with her friend Kim, navigate through urban edges to peaceful countryside, encounter various obstacles, and even witness a wedding. Thei...

Episode Webpage Step back in time as we delve into the fascinating history of sidewalk plowing in Rochester, NY. Our latest episode takes you on a journey to the early 1900s, exploring how a simple photograph of a man plowing streets with horses sparked our curiosity. Join us as we unravel the stories behind the city's unique approach to snow removal, from the struggles of postal workers to t...

Links Episode Webpage Official Park Website Park Map with Horse Trails Marked Google Maps Coordinates to Parking (Parade Grounds) Google Maps Coordinates to Parking (Trailside Lodge) Friends of Letchworth State Park Follow Us! Stats - Big Bend Loop Ride or Drive – Ride or Drive Trail Level – Moderate Dirt/Gravel road, most of it 1 lane wide. Parking – Fantastic – Large and wide and can handle larg...