By RUSS BROWN • Photos by Matt Johnson & Red Fern Riding Center
With cold weather drawing to an end before long -- at least we hope so -- winter-weary people in Kentuckiana are starting to think about recovering from cabin fever by enjoying outdoor activities once again. And there is a little-known gem nearby that is a perfect spot for reconnecting with nature on foot or horseback.
Shelby Trails Park is nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s horse country on Aiken Road in Simpsonville, only 35 minutes from Louisville. It is owned by the Shelby County Parks Dept. and offers something for almost everyone, including hikers, equestrians and nature lovers.
A little background on the relatively youthful park: It was officially deeded to Shelbyville/Shelby County Parks & Recreation in 2010 by Dr. Roger & Diane Shott of Anchorage, Ky. The family’s vision was to dedicate the 387-acre parcel in Shelby County as an equestrian and nature preserve for all to enjoy.
The Shotts were horse enthusiasts who loved their farm and designed, built and maintained miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding that they enjoyed for many years. Now, thanks to their generous donation to the park system, all of Shelby County’s residents, along with visitors to the area, can take advantage of a premier multi-use equestrian park and nature preserve. Besides equestrians, the park welcomes hikers, trail runners, bird watchers, photographers and other outdoor and nature enthusiasts.
The park has grown to 462 acres that include 21 well-maintained hiking and horseback riding trails that were designed by the Shotts. The centerpiece of the park is Red Fern Riding Center, which is leased from the Parks Dept. by Justine Saudan, who runs her business out of the stable and is assisted by Program and Facilities Manager Lyndsey Estes.
“Our trails are accessible and able to fit your needs, with differing skill levels to choose from,” Saudan said. “Own your own horse? We welcome you to trailer in and enjoy. We simply require a day use fee or a yearly permit. Indulge your love of horses and nature.
“You’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. Unplug from the hustle and bustle, slow things down and spend a little time with friends or family getting back to the basics and connecting with horses and the natural environment.”
Boarding at Red Fern Riding Center includes access to lessons, clinics and events at the park.
“And the best part is we have a wonderful, cohesive barn family with a variety of interests, breeds and schedules,” Saudan noted.
The Riding Center is open year-round and offers guided trail rides, riding lessons, horse training and horse boarding. (There are no fees for hikers and other park patrons). The park has a 32-stall barn, indoor and outdoor areas for year-round riding and 25 miles of trails. The 1 1/2-hour tours include safety training and a short introductory lesson, followed by one hour out on the trail.
“Take a spin on our cross-country course designed to accommodate all riding levels and enjoy scenery best viewed from the saddle of a horse,” Saudan said. “We offer starter, beginner novice and novice classes for riders just starting out or looking to fine tune their skills. The course is designed over changeable terrain and will keep you on your toes. Our jumps are variable, with something different around every corner. They are colorful and bright and include water obstacle options.”
Saudan said Red Fern’s primary discipline in horse training is Eventing with a heavy emphasis on dressage foundation, teaching horsemanship, safety and building relationships with horses through equality, communication and shared partnership.
“Our training program is geared toward starting horses under saddle, young and old, and helping horses and clients who are experiencing challenges in their training or relationship with their horse. We help identify and solve issues around groundwork, nervousness, pushiness, distracted, disengaged or buddy sour horses. We can help assess if your horse, or potential horse, is the right fit for you and your goals. We provide English riding lessons instructing adults and children. We welcome first time riders to advanced students to learn the joy of riding in a safe and welcoming environment.”
If hiking is your passion, the park features trails for all ages, from beginner to experienced hikers. Variable terrain allows for finding a trail that best suits a hiker’s needs or interests, providing opportunities to keep it simple or take on a challenge. There are detailed trail maps and the trails are well-groomed and clearly marked.
“Shelby Trails Park is a great way to experience a great hike, a new adventure for you and your own horse, a guided horseback ride, or take a lesson and learn to ride,” Saudan says. “Take advantage of what we have to offer. We are sure Shelby Trails Park has something to fit your needs.”
GUIDED HORSEBACK RIDES - Experience Kentucky’s horse country by taking a guided tour on horseback. Explore your premier equestrian center and nature preserve as you and your trusty steed saunter down the trail with one of our seasoned guides. Our tours include basic safety training followed by one hour out on the trail.
NATURE RIDE $65.00 ONE HOUR - Whether you have never ridden before or you’re an experienced rider, you will be provided with a safe, fun, guided horseback ride atop their trusty steeds. Your ride will be led by an experienced guide who will be watching you and your horse for safety and entertainment, so you can relax and enjoy your experience!
ADVENTURE RIDE $90.00 1.5 HOURS - Perfect for a date, anniversary or just to do something different. Their longer ride takes you through more challenging terrain than their hour-long ride. You’ll ride up and down hills, through creeks and encounter wildlife.
2025 SEASON - March 29th - November 15th
RIDE DAYS AND TIMES - Wednesday - Sunday at 9:00, 11:00, 2:00 and 4:00
AGE LIMIT - Per the park’s insurance, riders must be 7 years of age or older to go out on the trail.
WEIGHT LIMIT - For your safety and the well-being of the horses, they require the rider not to exceed 20% of the horse’s weight. The current weight limit is 250 lbs.
MAX NUMBER OF RIDERS PER GROUP - 12
To learn more and to access Red Fern’s services, visit: www.redfernridingcenter.com or call 502-437-4375
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