Hooksett conservation commission bars horseback riding on Riverwalk, Heads Pond and Pinnacle Park trails

The Hooksett Conservation Commission voted Oct. 6 to add horseback riding to its list of prohibited uses on Riverwalk, Heads Pond Trail and Pinnacle Park.

A resident had asked whether horseback riding would be allowed on those trails. Commissioners reviewed the easement language, current trail design, safety and maintenance concerns, and comments from members who cited trail degradation, conflicts between users and cleanup burdens as reasons to restrict equestrian use. Several members noted the trails are primarily designed and maintained for pedestrian traffic, with narrow surfaces, wooden boardwalks and sections where hoof impacts would cause erosion.

Commissioner Phil Fitanidis and others described potential safety conflicts involving horses, leashed dogs, runners and children, and noted the maintenance burden and hygiene concerns created by horse manure. The commission discussed options including seasonal restrictions and separate horse-only trails but concluded the town currently lacks the funding and space to build dedicated equestrian routes.

After discussion the commission voted to add horseback riding to the list of prohibited uses for the three locations. Commissioners said the prohibition is not necessarily permanent: they invited the requester to submit a written proposal that would include details about parking for trailers, manure cleanup plans, liability measures, and how user conflicts would be managed. The commission will revisit the subject if a formal request and supporting plans are submitted.