Opening ceremonies planned for horse trail

By Laura Berrios

For the AJC

The first phase of Garland Mountain Horse and Hike Trails will open to the public Nov. 21 with a ribbon cutting and ride out ceremony at 2 p.m.

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Vonnie Jean and Cindy Wiltrout head out for a ride on the new Garland Mountain Horse and Hike trail. Opening ceremonies are Nov. 21.

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Volunteers install signage for the hew horse and hike park.

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Cherokee County commissioners and other dignitaries will mount horses and ride out on the 6.5 miles of wooded trails in Waleska. Opening day festivities will begin at noon with grilled hot dog and hamburger plates selling for $5. Waleska Fire and Rescue will display emergency vehicles, and several riding clubs will have booths at the event.

Bethany’s Equine and Aquatic Therapy Services, Inc. will demonstrate a special mounting block for physically challenged riders. The county received a $75,000 state grant to pay for the mounting block, signage, parking area and restrooms.

Volunteers from several equestrian clubs will spend this Saturday installing signs and pedestrian creek crossings, and preparing the trails for opening day.

The Cherokee County Saddle Club designed and built the trails, and will keep them maintained under a partnership with the county. Once completed the trail system will include 13.5 miles of interconnecting loops through hardwoods, streams and mountain scenery.