Shim Duke University Nicholas School Search
Home
Duke Forest
Teaching & Research Laboratory
Shim
Shim

About
News & Publications
Research
Education
Forest Environment
Management
>> Recreation
Location & Maps
Events

Shim

Giving Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunities
Contact Us

Recreation banner
Shim

Recreation

Shim

Introduction

Regulations & safety considerations

Fishing

>> Horseback riding

Mountain biking

Nature study

Picnicking / receptions

Running / hiking

Race events

Geocaching Restrictions

   
Recreation >> Horseback riding

Over thirty miles of forest roads can also be used for horseback riding in the Duke Forest. Due to the fragile nature of forest soils, the Duke Forest contains no earthen trails suitable for horseback riding.

The Forest does not maintain any stables from which horses can be rented; however, several commercial stables now exist in the vicinity of the Forest.

The Forest also does not maintain parking lots for trailers.

Please observe the following guidelines for horseback riding in the Duke Forest:

1. Stay on the graded roads. These are maintained for access by motor vehicles. Authorized vehicular access is permitted for students and faculty with teaching or research projects, maintenance vehicles and harvesting equipment. Yield to vehicles you encounter in the Forest.

2. Do not use foot paths. Most foot trails on the Forest are not regularly maintained, nor were they designed to stand up to the impact from horseback riding. For your safety and the protection of the environment, do not use these footpaths.

3. Limit your riding to dry weather. The maintained roads are generally adequate for horse traffic except in wet weather when hoofs can damage non-graveled, muddy soils.

4. Enter the Forest only at gated roads. They are marked by green posts with white lettering. Do not enter the Forest from adjacent stables, powerlines, or other clearings.

5. Be aware of your surroundings. Be alert to possible pedestrian and vehicular traffic that may be around the next corner.

Pine straw image footer
Home