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Northern California Coastal Trails and Parks 2011 Itinerary
You will explore the beauty of California scenic coast trails while enjoying the comfort of the
Tennessee Walker’s unique “running walk” and “rocking chair canter.” The long, smooth stride
covers an amazing amount of ground without expending a lot of energy. The Tennessee
Walking horse is known for its gentle disposition and affectionate manner and we believe riding
one of these gaited horse will spoil you for the rest of your life. Ride through California coastal
grassland, seasonal wildflower filled meadows and stands of Redwood trees. You will cross
creeks and encounter wildlife ranging from herons, hawks to deer and possible sightings of
coyote and bobcats with the spectacular Pacific Ocean as your spectacular backdrop view.
Enjoy the short drive to San Francisco or Monterey along the scenic coastal highway considered
one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the United States. Take a short side trip off HWY 1
to Pescadero - a town that still retains its 19th century atmosphere to sightsee & shop for
handcrafted gifts or to visit a goat farm that produces excellent goat cheese.
We have outlined below a sample itinerary which may be adjusted by you and your guide. For
more description of ride topography, history and other activities available in the area please refer
to the material provided to you in your Blue Sky Folder, which will be waiting for you upon arrival.
Should you have any question please do not hesitate to contact us.
You will explore the beauty of California scenic coast trails while enjoying the comfort of the
Tennessee Walker’s unique “running walk” and “rocking chair canter.” The long, smooth stride
covers an amazing amount of ground without expending a lot of energy. The Tennessee
Walking horse is known for its gentle disposition and affectionate manner and we believe riding
one of these gaited horse will spoil you for the rest of your life. Ride through California coastal
grassland, seasonal wildflower filled meadows and stands of Redwood trees. You will cross
creeks and encounter wildlife ranging from herons, hawks to deer and possible sightings of
coyote and bobcats with the spectacular Pacific Ocean as your spectacular backdrop view.
Enjoy the short drive to San Francisco or Monterey along the scenic coastal highway considered
one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the United States. Take a short side trip off HWY 1
to Pescadero - a town that still retains its 19th century atmosphere to sightsee & shop for
handcrafted gifts or to visit a goat farm that produces excellent goat cheese.
We have outlined below a sample itinerary which may be adjusted by you and your guide. For
more description of ride topography, history and other activities available in the area please refer
to the material provided to you in your Blue Sky Folder, which will be waiting for you upon arrival.
Should you have any question please do not hesitate to contact us.
DAY 1 Introduction Ride: (3 - 5 days packages are available)
Ride start time is dependent on time of season: Spring (2pm); Summer/Fall (4pm).
Begin your vacation with an introduction to your itinerary and then a short ride to introduce you to the trails, guides and the unique gait of
the Tennessee Walking Horse. The ride will take you on trails surrounded by the scent of coastal sage and through canopies of pine
trees overhanging with views overlooking the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse and the Pacific Ocean. Pigeon Point Lighthouse has
watched over this rocky shore since 1872.
Welcoming Wine Tasting and a Little Outdoor Fireplace Party or Dinner (local Boutique Mountain Wineries tours are available)
After your ride, you will be joined with your guide and management for a hearty little party surrounded by an outdoor fireplace over looking
views of the Ohlone Canyon to sample local plates, appetizers, cheeses, juices and Northern California Wines. Also, during this time
we will customize with you the plan for your riding vacation; give you all the information you need to make your vacation an easy and
relaxing trip. Or if you prefer, a dinner at some of the best local restaurants that feature classic northern California cuisine; such as
Duarte's Tavern, a historic restaurant and bar in the scenic but sleepy town of Pescadero. This is one of the best places to eat and the
locals’ favorite for lunch and dinner. It's really unpretentious place with an old west ambiance and serves good food. Famous for their
olalliberry pies, artichoke dishes and homemade jam, all made from produce grown in local coastal farms. It has been run by four
generations of the Duarte family. Started in 1894 by Frank Duarte and the original bar is still being used today. We might explore other
options in the ) towns of Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz and their harbors. Please visit (www.california-travels.com/html/pescadero.html
Ride start time is dependent on time of season: Spring (2pm); Summer/Fall (4pm).
Begin your vacation with an introduction to your itinerary and then a short ride to introduce you to the trails, guides and the unique gait of
the Tennessee Walking Horse. The ride will take you on trails surrounded by the scent of coastal sage and through canopies of pine
trees overhanging with views overlooking the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse and the Pacific Ocean. Pigeon Point Lighthouse has
watched over this rocky shore since 1872.
Welcoming Wine Tasting and a Little Outdoor Fireplace Party or Dinner (local Boutique Mountain Wineries tours are available)
After your ride, you will be joined with your guide and management for a hearty little party surrounded by an outdoor fireplace over looking
views of the Ohlone Canyon to sample local plates, appetizers, cheeses, juices and Northern California Wines. Also, during this time
we will customize with you the plan for your riding vacation; give you all the information you need to make your vacation an easy and
relaxing trip. Or if you prefer, a dinner at some of the best local restaurants that feature classic northern California cuisine; such as
Duarte's Tavern, a historic restaurant and bar in the scenic but sleepy town of Pescadero. This is one of the best places to eat and the
locals’ favorite for lunch and dinner. It's really unpretentious place with an old west ambiance and serves good food. Famous for their
olalliberry pies, artichoke dishes and homemade jam, all made from produce grown in local coastal farms. It has been run by four
generations of the Duarte family. Started in 1894 by Frank Duarte and the original bar is still being used today. We might explore other
options in the ) towns of Half Moon Bay, Santa Cruz and their harbors. Please visit (www.california-travels.com/html/pescadero.html
DAY 3. Butano State Park:
The ride begins at the trail junction to Butano (pronounced “Boo-tano”) State Park. Before that, the area
was home to loggers, farmers, and ranchers, and before that, to Native Americans, who drifted down
the West Coast from the Bering Strait. The Ohlone was the common tribe of Indians in these parts, and
it is interesting to note that they shied away from the deep redwood canyons that we admire and enjoy
today. Their preference was for open spaces, where they could find edible plants and game (deer)
rather than the dark forest where food was scarce and where grizzly bears and predators hid.
The ride begins at the trail junction to Butano (pronounced “Boo-tano”) State Park. Before that, the area
was home to loggers, farmers, and ranchers, and before that, to Native Americans, who drifted down
the West Coast from the Bering Strait. The Ohlone was the common tribe of Indians in these parts, and
it is interesting to note that they shied away from the deep redwood canyons that we admire and enjoy
today. Their preference was for open spaces, where they could find edible plants and game (deer)
rather than the dark forest where food was scarce and where grizzly bears and predators hid.
The single-track trail shortly comes out on a wide fire road, which promotes conversation and photo opportunities. Along this gradual
incline you can again experience the wonderful “rocking chair” canter of the Tennessee Walking Horse. You will stop for lunch at the top
of the ridge and enjoy as your backdrop views of canyons, ridges and the Pacific Ocean. Take in views from the contrasting high ridges
among dry manzanita and knobcone pines. There you see an unforgettable picture of the densely wooded Santa Cruz Mountains before
the sweeping Pacific Ocean. In early spring it is a unique experience to whale watch while on horseback as the Gray Whales swim off
the coast on their 6,000 mile migration from the Arctic to Baja, California. It is due to the concerted effort of nature conservation that the
Gray Whale populations remain at levels nearly that of 200 years ago.
incline you can again experience the wonderful “rocking chair” canter of the Tennessee Walking Horse. You will stop for lunch at the top
of the ridge and enjoy as your backdrop views of canyons, ridges and the Pacific Ocean. Take in views from the contrasting high ridges
among dry manzanita and knobcone pines. There you see an unforgettable picture of the densely wooded Santa Cruz Mountains before
the sweeping Pacific Ocean. In early spring it is a unique experience to whale watch while on horseback as the Gray Whales swim off
the coast on their 6,000 mile migration from the Arctic to Baja, California. It is due to the concerted effort of nature conservation that the
Gray Whale populations remain at levels nearly that of 200 years ago.
DAY 4. Redwood State Park, Berry Creek Water Falls or Pescadero Creek Park.
Big Basin Redwood State Park is California's oldest State Park, established in 1902. And home to the largest continuous stand of
ancient coast redwoods south of San Francisco. (visit www.bigbasin.org) The horses will be transported south to the Big Basin
Redwood State Park trail head across from the Pacific Ocean at Waddell Beach.
The ride starts at the entrance to Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The Park has more than 19,000 acres of semi-wilderness, including
rare, virgin redwood forest some of which are over 1,500 years old, old growth and recovering redwood forest, with mixed conifer, oaks,
chaparral, and riparian habitats. You will take a short loop up to Berry Creek Falls, a beautiful 70-foot waterfall considered one of the
most beautiful in Northern California (bring your cameras). The Falls is an awesome sight in the spring after the rains, its water
plunging more than 65 feet over sandstone cliffs upholstered with thick moss. The trail takes you through a verdant, creek valley with
plenty of opportunity to enjoy the smooth glide of the “running walk.” On the return you will enjoy a spectacular wide vista of the Pacific
Ocean and Waddell Creek Beach. There is a nature center here called Rancho Del Oso (“Ranch of the Bear”) and if you use your
imagination you can picture grizzly bears at one time searching for food along the creek. Depending on the season, enjoy the warm
amber afternoon glow of the day or a spectacular sunset over the ocean. After your exhilarating ride, finish up with a relaxing massage
offered as part of this riding vacation package.
Big Basin Redwood State Park is California's oldest State Park, established in 1902. And home to the largest continuous stand of
ancient coast redwoods south of San Francisco. (visit www.bigbasin.org) The horses will be transported south to the Big Basin
Redwood State Park trail head across from the Pacific Ocean at Waddell Beach.
The ride starts at the entrance to Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The Park has more than 19,000 acres of semi-wilderness, including
rare, virgin redwood forest some of which are over 1,500 years old, old growth and recovering redwood forest, with mixed conifer, oaks,
chaparral, and riparian habitats. You will take a short loop up to Berry Creek Falls, a beautiful 70-foot waterfall considered one of the
most beautiful in Northern California (bring your cameras). The Falls is an awesome sight in the spring after the rains, its water
plunging more than 65 feet over sandstone cliffs upholstered with thick moss. The trail takes you through a verdant, creek valley with
plenty of opportunity to enjoy the smooth glide of the “running walk.” On the return you will enjoy a spectacular wide vista of the Pacific
Ocean and Waddell Creek Beach. There is a nature center here called Rancho Del Oso (“Ranch of the Bear”) and if you use your
imagination you can picture grizzly bears at one time searching for food along the creek. Depending on the season, enjoy the warm
amber afternoon glow of the day or a spectacular sunset over the ocean. After your exhilarating ride, finish up with a relaxing massage
offered as part of this riding vacation package.
DAY 5. Your Choice or a Surprise Ride:
The day before, your guides will offer you several options to choose from for your last day ride; you may want to repeat a previous ride, or
choose to ride a different trail. We are always looking for new and interesting trails to ride, so we decided to leave the last day ride
open to offer you such adventure. Possible choices may be a loop through a redwood forest. You will ride inland through areas with
diverse micro climates and ecosystems featuring a network of hiking and equestrian trails through the hills and redwood forests along
Pescadero Creek. You will ride on a single-track trail that curves around and through a heavily forested douglas fir/redwood forest and
several creek crossings where just the sounds of nature and the horse hoof-beat can be heard. Look for nuts on hazelnut shrubs in
August, and in autumn, red berries from toyon and honeysuckle brighten the Douglas fir and coast live oak woods. Fallen needles on
the path mark the reemergence of redwoods, and they are accompanied by California bays and lush forest vegetation, with lots of
hazelnut and blackberry brambles. You may rest under shaded sections of coastal redwood trees with more opportunities for canters
over rolling coastal hills. Another possible ride loop will take you on a trail through grasslands, historic farmlands and redwoods.
The day before, your guides will offer you several options to choose from for your last day ride; you may want to repeat a previous ride, or
choose to ride a different trail. We are always looking for new and interesting trails to ride, so we decided to leave the last day ride
open to offer you such adventure. Possible choices may be a loop through a redwood forest. You will ride inland through areas with
diverse micro climates and ecosystems featuring a network of hiking and equestrian trails through the hills and redwood forests along
Pescadero Creek. You will ride on a single-track trail that curves around and through a heavily forested douglas fir/redwood forest and
several creek crossings where just the sounds of nature and the horse hoof-beat can be heard. Look for nuts on hazelnut shrubs in
August, and in autumn, red berries from toyon and honeysuckle brighten the Douglas fir and coast live oak woods. Fallen needles on
the path mark the reemergence of redwoods, and they are accompanied by California bays and lush forest vegetation, with lots of
hazelnut and blackberry brambles. You may rest under shaded sections of coastal redwood trees with more opportunities for canters
over rolling coastal hills. Another possible ride loop will take you on a trail through grasslands, historic farmlands and redwoods.
DAY 6. Farewell
By that time you will be in love with the boys; so before departure, for those riders who wish to get in one more ride and few photos, or
say goodbye to the boys (The Magnificent Walkers of Blue Sky) before they leave we will arrange a morning ride.
By that time you will be in love with the boys; so before departure, for those riders who wish to get in one more ride and few photos, or
say goodbye to the boys (The Magnificent Walkers of Blue Sky) before they leave we will arrange a morning ride.
Forget the long nose and tail rides; our vacation is limited to 4 riders maximum so we can customize it to your liking.
We also accommodate special occasions, anniversaries and birthday with private vacation at no extra cost.
For Complete up to date information and pricing, please email us at horses@bluesky-riding.com; Please include your email
address to receive our vacation package by email.
Accommodations:
We offer accommodation at Costanoa coastal Lodge Resort (www.costanoa.com)
Other options available, please contact us.
Other Activities on site:
Spa, yoga, mountain bike riding, hiking, kayaking, visit local winery, tour of working goat cheese farm, Ano Nuevo State Park, Santa Cruz
Board Walk, historic Pigeon Point Light House, and Big Basin Redwood State Park, Golfing in Half Moon Bay.
Half Moon Bay Golf Links www.hmbgolflinks.com/
"Best of the Best" Travel + Leisure Golf Magazine describes Half Moon Bay Golf Links as a "World's Best Golf Resort",
| Blue Sky Riding Vacation |
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Day 2. Ocean Views and Coastal Hills Ride
Ride begins at Costanoa and meanders through the grassland with a gradual ascent. Topography
gradually changes to a high mountain juniper as we reach the summit of a panoramic views
overlooking the Monterey Peninsula, the pigeon point light house and Aneo Neuvo. Enjoy a picnic lunch
while seated on a bluff overlooking the panoramic Pacific Ocean. The ride follows the ridge line for a
short distance with picturesque views of the surrounding mountain range then loops down through a
lush pine forest and back onto coastal trails with more spectacular views of the coast. Finish up the
exhilarating ride with a relaxing massage offered as part of this riding vacation package
Ride begins at Costanoa and meanders through the grassland with a gradual ascent. Topography
gradually changes to a high mountain juniper as we reach the summit of a panoramic views
overlooking the Monterey Peninsula, the pigeon point light house and Aneo Neuvo. Enjoy a picnic lunch
while seated on a bluff overlooking the panoramic Pacific Ocean. The ride follows the ridge line for a
short distance with picturesque views of the surrounding mountain range then loops down through a
lush pine forest and back onto coastal trails with more spectacular views of the coast. Finish up the
exhilarating ride with a relaxing massage offered as part of this riding vacation package
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We have just completed our plans for the 2011 season, so welcome to Blue Sky Riding Experience and thank you for your interest in
vacationing with the Walkers of Blue Sky. A group of very sweet, loving and well trained smooth walkers that you will fall in love with,
like many before you.
The best month for riding on the cost are March to November. For May – June, September to October we have a spring like coastal
weather, we are in a localized micro-climate with blue sky most of the year (part of the reason for the Blue Sky name). In July –
August it can get foggy; strange but the inland heat pulls cold air from the ocean and causes the coast to fog up. That’s our natural
air-conditioning system. Since we ride on the coastal hills, we hardly have flies and no mosquitoes.
We planned our horseback vacation trip to be different every day. You will explore the beauty of California scenic coast trails while
enjoying the comfort of the Tennessee Walker’s unique “running walk” and “rocking chair canter.” The long, smooth stride covers
an amazing amount of ground without expending a lot of energy, and you will have ample opportunity for canters over the rolling
coastal hills. The Tennessee Walking horse is known for its gentle disposition and affectionate manner and we believe riding one of
these gaited horse will spoil you for the rest of your life.
You will ride through California coastal hills and grassland, seasonal wildflower filled meadows, and stands of Redwood trees. You
will cross creeks and encounter wildlife ranging from herons, hawks to deer and possible sightings of coyote and bobcats with the
spectacular Pacific Ocean as your backdrop view; we believe no other ride can match what we offer. It is true, we are in a secluded,
rural area; but we are only 1 hour south of San Francisco, 45 minutes North of Santa Cruz and 90 minutes North of Monterey and we
are directly across from the ocean, with a secluded beach just across from the stables.
As for the accommodation, Costanoa is a great option, since we operate from there and you will check in a private lodge room at
Costanoa Lodge & Resort. Costanoa is a coastal lodge and camp located an hour south of San Francisco on the east side of
California's historic Highway 1. Overlooking beautiful stretches of undisturbed shores and rolling coastal hills, Costanoa is adjacent
to four state parks (where we take you to ride) a spectacular wildlife reserve and 30,000 acres of coastal trails. The property
grounds provide an outdoor scenic expanse close to nature where you can walk or relax, enjoying the sun, ocean views or an
evening outdoor hot tub with a view of the stars and moonlight. The forty-room lodge features stylish comfort amidst natural
surroundings. Enjoy the short drive from and to San Francisco along the scenic coastal highway considered one of the most
beautiful stretches of road in the United States. Take a short side trip off HWY 1 to Pescadero - a town that still retains its 19th
century atmosphere- to sightsee & shop for handcrafted gifts; or to Half Moon Bay and enjoy a round of golf, a dinner or a cocktail in
the marina; or still yet a Sunday brunch at the Ritz Carlton.
Because of our love for our horses and our philosophy for the business, Blue Sky has been recognized in our area as the best riding
vacation and the place to go for a refined riding experience and a relaxing riding program. We have been featured in local TV
stations and news papers numerous times; written about in international horse magazines and we have had riders from as far as
Europe and Japan, as well as several repeat riders that have joined our “Friends of the Walkers Riding Club” who enjoy specially
planned rides, like full moon ocean view rides, sunset rides, mother and daughter spring vacation, ride the pacific-shop San
Francisco and Golden Gates, dancing cruise night, Indian Summer vacation, and great discounts just so they can come back see the
boys and us.
However, we still insist on keeping our rides cozy and intimate by limiting the number of riders per vacation week; thus ensuring that
you will get the best attention from the guide, have a safe and active ride as much as you wish, and be able to experience and enjoy
the unique walker’s gaits. Our ride is not the 12 riders and one guide long nose and tail slow ride and this is the only horseback
riding vacation that limit the number of riders to four, so we can pay attention to every rider’s needs and requests. Private Rides are
offered at no extra cost.
We do hope that you will join us for a relaxing (what else, riding walkers across from the ocean with great views, fresh air, a
massage, an outdoor hot tub) memorable vacation and become a member of our “Friends of the Walkers Riding Club”. We are
looking forward to your joining us for what we believe will be a wonderful vacation and a truly new riding experience.
vacationing with the Walkers of Blue Sky. A group of very sweet, loving and well trained smooth walkers that you will fall in love with,
like many before you.
The best month for riding on the cost are March to November. For May – June, September to October we have a spring like coastal
weather, we are in a localized micro-climate with blue sky most of the year (part of the reason for the Blue Sky name). In July –
August it can get foggy; strange but the inland heat pulls cold air from the ocean and causes the coast to fog up. That’s our natural
air-conditioning system. Since we ride on the coastal hills, we hardly have flies and no mosquitoes.
We planned our horseback vacation trip to be different every day. You will explore the beauty of California scenic coast trails while
enjoying the comfort of the Tennessee Walker’s unique “running walk” and “rocking chair canter.” The long, smooth stride covers
an amazing amount of ground without expending a lot of energy, and you will have ample opportunity for canters over the rolling
coastal hills. The Tennessee Walking horse is known for its gentle disposition and affectionate manner and we believe riding one of
these gaited horse will spoil you for the rest of your life.
You will ride through California coastal hills and grassland, seasonal wildflower filled meadows, and stands of Redwood trees. You
will cross creeks and encounter wildlife ranging from herons, hawks to deer and possible sightings of coyote and bobcats with the
spectacular Pacific Ocean as your backdrop view; we believe no other ride can match what we offer. It is true, we are in a secluded,
rural area; but we are only 1 hour south of San Francisco, 45 minutes North of Santa Cruz and 90 minutes North of Monterey and we
are directly across from the ocean, with a secluded beach just across from the stables.
As for the accommodation, Costanoa is a great option, since we operate from there and you will check in a private lodge room at
Costanoa Lodge & Resort. Costanoa is a coastal lodge and camp located an hour south of San Francisco on the east side of
California's historic Highway 1. Overlooking beautiful stretches of undisturbed shores and rolling coastal hills, Costanoa is adjacent
to four state parks (where we take you to ride) a spectacular wildlife reserve and 30,000 acres of coastal trails. The property
grounds provide an outdoor scenic expanse close to nature where you can walk or relax, enjoying the sun, ocean views or an
evening outdoor hot tub with a view of the stars and moonlight. The forty-room lodge features stylish comfort amidst natural
surroundings. Enjoy the short drive from and to San Francisco along the scenic coastal highway considered one of the most
beautiful stretches of road in the United States. Take a short side trip off HWY 1 to Pescadero - a town that still retains its 19th
century atmosphere- to sightsee & shop for handcrafted gifts; or to Half Moon Bay and enjoy a round of golf, a dinner or a cocktail in
the marina; or still yet a Sunday brunch at the Ritz Carlton.
Because of our love for our horses and our philosophy for the business, Blue Sky has been recognized in our area as the best riding
vacation and the place to go for a refined riding experience and a relaxing riding program. We have been featured in local TV
stations and news papers numerous times; written about in international horse magazines and we have had riders from as far as
Europe and Japan, as well as several repeat riders that have joined our “Friends of the Walkers Riding Club” who enjoy specially
planned rides, like full moon ocean view rides, sunset rides, mother and daughter spring vacation, ride the pacific-shop San
Francisco and Golden Gates, dancing cruise night, Indian Summer vacation, and great discounts just so they can come back see the
boys and us.
However, we still insist on keeping our rides cozy and intimate by limiting the number of riders per vacation week; thus ensuring that
you will get the best attention from the guide, have a safe and active ride as much as you wish, and be able to experience and enjoy
the unique walker’s gaits. Our ride is not the 12 riders and one guide long nose and tail slow ride and this is the only horseback
riding vacation that limit the number of riders to four, so we can pay attention to every rider’s needs and requests. Private Rides are
offered at no extra cost.
We do hope that you will join us for a relaxing (what else, riding walkers across from the ocean with great views, fresh air, a
massage, an outdoor hot tub) memorable vacation and become a member of our “Friends of the Walkers Riding Club”. We are
looking forward to your joining us for what we believe will be a wonderful vacation and a truly new riding experience.