Hopkins County, KY – Even though the winter ice storm of 2009 devastated the trails in the Pennyrile Forest State Park, extensive cleanup efforts throughout the summer have allowed trails to re-open for hikers, mountain bike and horseback riders.

While FEMA crews were contracted for the majority of the cleanup, local volunteers from the organization “Friends of Pennyrile” have spent the last two weeks adding finishing touches in preparation for upcoming events.

On Saturday September 26th, one of the horseback riding trails was unveiled as 50 horseback riders and one wagon had the opportunity to ride a three hour section of the trail. After about a thirty minute break, 16 of the riders were taken on another trail for an additional two hour ride. Gerald Igelhart from Princeton, KY said "We had a good ride. The trails were wide enough that we could ride side by side.”  But Igelhart warned, the trails are partially marked and recommends that until the trails are marked properly, you ride with someone familiar with the park trails.  Igelhart also says that not all trails will be wide enough for wagons.

On October 24th, Friends of Pennyrile will lead another trail ride starting at 10am. All visitors are asked to park in the field at the nursery. Donations of $5 for a single or $10 for family will go to the Friends of Pennyrile organization. Everyone is welcome.

On November 12th , Women on the Edge will lead a trail ride starting at 10am. All visitors are asked to park in the field at the nursery. Fees for this ride were not available at press time.
Additional information concerning horseback riding can be found by visiting Friends of Pennyrile at www.friendsofpennyrile.com

For information concerning all events within Pennyrile State Resort Park, you can visit http://www.stateparks.com/pennyrile.html or call toll free at 1-800-325-1711 or locally at 270-797-3421. Pennyrile State Resort Park is located at 20781 Pennyrile Lodge Road Dawson Springs, KY 42408-9212

iSurfnews – Zack Willett