Horse Lovers Jubilant With New Trail Set to Open Soon in Southold

It’s happy trails in Southold.

The town is set to open its first horse trail on February 1, according to officials.

When plans were first announced last year, horse lovers were jubilant at the idea of blazing the trail on the Forestbrook property, a 25.8 acre preserved parcel located off North Bayview Road Extension in Southold.

At Tuesday’s work session, Jeff Standish, director of public works, and John Sepenoski of the landmarks preservation commission updated the board regarding progress to the trail.

With all clearing completed, Standish and Sepenoski asked the board for permission to move forward with a kiosk at the start of the trail.

Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell said the land was first purchased by the town in 2004; earlier this year, after the county nixed a popular Pony Swim on nearby Cedar Beach, the supervisor met with horse enthusiasts and Southold residents Jill Franke and Cindy Hilary, to discuss the proposal.

At first, the board considered allowing both hikers and equestrians on the trail but on Tuesday, the board agreed that for now, just one trail, for riding horses only, would be allowed. Down the line, hiking may be considered, Sepenoski said.

“The original plan was to get the horse trail open for now and develop a trail/stewardship plan to open it up to all hikers in the future. For the time being, a dual use would be unsafe for riders and hikers and would present a liability to the town,” Russell said.

No hunting will be allowed on the trail, officials said.

One issue remains regarding individuals who walk their dogs on the preserved parcel and don’t pick up waste, Russell said. “A couple of bad apples ruin it for everyone. This issue comes up time and time again. Enough is enough.”

Councilwoman Jill Doherty said dog waste is a problem everywhere, not just on the trail.

Signage has been set up to direct horse lovers to the trail; additional signage will be created to remind dog owners to be mindful of waste.

In addition, Standish said, “motorcycles and quads have found this trail.”

Russell said to bring the matter to the attention of Police Chief Martin Flatley. “It didn’t take them long,” he said.

Horse lovers are thrilled with the news that the trail is nearly open: “I am very pleased that after 10 years it’s finally happening. I am excited to be able to ride in there in the near future,” Franke said.

“It’s a good use for a property that had been dormant and unused for the 10 years or so that the town has owned it. This is why we acquire parcels — for public use and enjoyment,” Russell said.