Irvine : Horseback Riders Can Hit Trail for 6-Hour Ride

Local residents can hit the trail for a four-hour horseback ride and enjoy a cowboy-style lunch to boot--if they are quick on the draw.

Although organizers of the Irvine Trail Ride planned to quit taking reservations earlier this week, a few seats are still available for the six-hour event, to be held April 13. No reservations will be taken after April 5.

Pam Davis, president of the Trail Ride Committee, said riders may either rent horses for $75 or pay $30 and bring their own. No riding experience is required. Riders and mounts will be matched based on experience, she said.

The trail ride will begin at Crystal Cove State Park at about 9:30 a.m. and wind along a six-mile trail through ranch land owned by the Irvine Co. Riders will arrive at Bonner Canyon shortly before noon for a catered barbecue lunch.

Participants also will be entertained by live bluegrass music and a square dancing exhibition. Children will be able to take pony rides. For those who would rather eat than ride, lunch will be served for $12.50, Davis said.

At 2 p.m., the riders will hit another trail for a two-hour trek back to Crystal Cove Park.

Davis said 325 people are expected for the event, with 150 actually taking part in the trail ride. The event is sponsored by the Irvine Historical Society, the Irvine YMCA and the trail ride committee. Proceeds will go to the Irvine YMCA. For more information, call Davis at 551-3148.