Important Equestrian Rules
- Equestrians shall remove from designated parking areas, sidewalks, bridges, paved surfaces, and sidewalks all residues, including manure, generated by their horses.
- Horses must remain on multiuse trails and use designated watering spots.
- Horses will be steered or led across streams and rivers using pre-existing crossings along trails.
- Horses shall not be allowed to wade in lakes.
- For each horse brought to the forest, proof of a negative Coggins test must be available for inspection.
- Horse-drawn carts, carriages, or other apparatus are not allowed.
- Horses will be constrained in a manner that will prevent damage to trees and plants.
- Pets must be on a physical leash and under your control at all times.
- Alcohol and illegal substances are prohibited
- Areas or trails designated "No Entry," "Do Not Enter," or "Authorized Personnel Only" are prohibited to trail users.
- Take your trash with you.
- Forest use is at your own risk.
- Click to read a complete list of forest rules.
Violators are subject to misdemeanor charges and/or forest expulsion by authority of N.C.G.S. 106-877
Equestrians at DuPont
Equestrians are welcome to use nearly all of the trails at DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF).
Hooker Falls Trail, the lower section of Triple Falls Trail, and the pedestian bridge at Hooker Falls Access Area are off-limits to equestrians and bicyclists.
Since DSRF has grown in popularity, the trails are used more than ever. Other visitors may not be aware of trail etiquette or know to yield to equestrians. Make sure you and your horse are ready.
Multiuse Trail System
Equestrians can expect high trail traffic at any time, especially near the heavily visited waterfall corridors.
Be sure you and your horse are ready for a variety of circumstances.
Tie-out locations and potential watering sources are available.
Equestrians should make themselves known to other users, especially hikers and bicyclists. Saying 'hello' to oncoming users is a best practice in avoiding trail conflicts.
Jim Branch and Ridgeline Trails are popular trails for mountain biking. Equestrians should expect downhill bicyclists at all times.
Equestrian Parking
Parking for horse trailers is encouraged at Guion Farm Access Area on Sky Valley Road and Lake Imaging Access Area on Staton Road.
There is no parking for large vehicles at the High Falls and Hooker Falls Access Areas. These areas experience a high volume of cars and pedestrians.
For more information about equestrian activities in DuPont State Recreational Forest and answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), click here.
