July 4, 2026

Hello Members, As we celebrate Independence Day, I hope you have the opportunity to spend time with family and friends while enjoying the freedoms we cherish as Americans. July is also a reminder of the importance of safety - for ourselves, our families, and our horses. Holiday gatherings, increased trail traffic, and fireworks can create unique challenges, so please take extra precautions to keep your horses comfortable and secure during the festivities.

We are just one month closer to our 30th Anniversary Celebration, and planning is in full swing. If you haven’t already signed up for a day of learning with the infamous Robert Eversole, The TrailMeister, be sure to visit our website and register. We are also seeking vendors who may be interested in participating, so please have them contact a board member. Food truck recommendations are still needed, so if you have a favorite, we’d love to hear from you. In addition, we will be holding an auction featuring a variety of items and experiences. If you have something you would like to donate, please contact a board member. Remember, this celebration is an important fundraiser that helps our Chapter continue its mission of preserving trails, promoting responsible horse use, and supporting our volunteer efforts throughout the year.

In May, our outing took us to Saddle Up Colorado in Gilcrest. As always, Danna provided valuable education on the importance of proper saddle fit. Thanks to a donation from our Chapter, two members had the opportunity to have their horses professionally fitted. Please support Saddle Up Colorado whenever possible. Danna has been a tremendous supporter of our Chapter, and it’s important that we show our appreciation for our Silver Spur Members.

Over the past year and a half, we have undertaken the significant task of inventorying and consolidating all Chapter equipment into a single location. I am pleased to report that this project has now been completed, with all equipment now housed at Jim and Julie Chaney’s home. Having all equipment in one location will allow it to be maintained, sharpened, tuned, and ready for use during Chapter trail-clearing projects. This has been a significant undertaking, and we appreciate everyone who helped to make it happen.

Recent successful trail-clearing efforts include:

Huerfano State Wildlife Area (June 12-24). This pack-in trip was extremely successful, with six volunteers clearing more than 70 trees from the Cascade Trail near the BLM boundary within the San Isabel National Forest. Special thanks to the BLM representatives who helped make this project possible by providing a UTV.

Indian Creek: Members Jerry & Chris Amrhein and Doug Howell continue to respond to reports from riders by clearing fallen trees throughout this area. Their dedication helps keep these trails safe and accessible for everyone.

Don’t forget to visit our website regularly for the latest event information, volunteer opportunities, trail-clearing updates, and details about our upcoming 30th Anniversary Celebration.

Upcoming Events

July 16-19 - Annual Trail-Clearing at Huerfano State Wildlife Area/BLM. Details and registration are available on the website calendar.

July 25 - Bear Creek Lake Park Sunset Social Ride - Details and registration are available on the website calendar.

Please note that there will be no member meeting in July as we all take time to enjoy the summer season and our horses.

Thank you to everyone who continues to volunteer, participate, and support FRBCH. Your dedication keeps our trails open, our events successful, and our organization strong. Together, we are preserving riding opportunities today while ensuring they remain available for future generations. As you celebrate this Independence Day, take a moment to appreciate the public lands, trails, and freedoms that allow us to enjoy the backcountry with our horses.

Safe travels, happy riding, and thank you for helping protect the places we love.

Happy Trails,

Shawna Jarvis

Front Range Back Country Horsemen