Albemarle residents rally for horseback riding trails at Biscuit Run Park

Horseback riding advocates made a passionate plea at the Albemarle County Planning Commission meeting on February 25, 2025, urging officials to prioritize the development of horseback riding trails at Biscuit Run Park. The equestrian community, represented by several local residents and business owners, emphasized the economic and cultural significance of horseback riding in the region.

Kristen Jones, a resident and horseback rider, highlighted Albemarle County's rich equestrian heritage, noting that it ranks among the top counties in Virginia for horseback riding. She pointed out the lack of accessible riding parks, stating, "We have only two parks now in Albemarle, and none of them are close to the Biscuit Run area." Jones and others called for the inclusion of horseback riding trails in the park's master plan, which they believe was originally intended to accommodate such activities.

Shawnee Baker, representing the Central Virginia equine industry, echoed these sentiments, stressing the economic benefits that equestrian tourism brings to the area. "The horse enthusiasts who come from all over Virginia shop, buy gas, stay in town for lunch," she said, underscoring the financial impact of the equine community on local businesses.

Mark Gebhardt, another equine business owner, criticized the current planning process for excluding horseback riding from Biscuit Run Park, despite its designation as the largest park in the county. He urged the board to ensure that the park's development aligns with the community's needs for equitable access to recreational activities.

The meeting also featured testimonies from long-time equestrians like Lynn Gebhardt and Lucia Evans Morse, who expressed concerns about the preservation of equine land use and the need for supportive infrastructure for horseback riding. They warned that without proper planning, the equine community's contributions to the local economy and culture could diminish.

As the meeting concluded, the equestrian advocates left with a hopeful message, urging the Planning Commission to recognize the importance of horseback riding in Albemarle County and to take actionable steps towards integrating equestrian trails into the Biscuit Run Park development plans. The outcome of this meeting could significantly shape the future of horseback riding in the region, as community members await the board's response to their requests.