Hikers along Muriel Lake won’t be the only ones enjoying the trails.
Horses and their human companions will soon be able to take advantage of trails and camping at Muriel Lake, after the MD of Bonnyville decided to open it up to horseback riders.
Chris McCord, director of parks and recreation for the MD, said the municipality is currently confirming with Alberta Environment and Parks that they have the green light to go ahead with the project, which will also include the addition of six horse-friendly campsites.
Using the top parking lot at Muriel Lake, they will create a corral area with water access and campsites for horseback riders.
Although councillors were in favour of the idea, some expressed concerns about what sharing the trail system and campground could look like to families.
“I’m in favour of having that out there, but I’m just worried about the horse manure,” expressed Coun. Dana Swigart.
While walking along the trails and staying at the campground, riders will be responsible for cleaning up after their animal.
Swigart is concerned that although it will be included in their list of rules, not everyone will do as they’re told.
“I don’t think on the trails it will be much of an issue, but on the campsites, that’s where we will have to keep on top of things and make sure it’s part of the rules that they have to leave the site clean,” Coun. Marc Jubinville explained.
There will be a designated site for manure, and riders will be required to clean up after their horse.
“We’re going to ask people to clean up after themselves as much as possible, and in the campsite area, those definitely have to be left clean,” McCord added.
Proper signage indicating it’s a shared trail system with horseback riders is required before the MD can open it up, however, McCord said if Alberta Environment and Parks approves the project soon, the MD could have the work completed in June.
