I live in MS now but am from IL. Shawnee is
actually very large with quite a lot of terrain difference. They have
closed a lot of trails that used to be open to horses. If you can tell me what
area you will be riding in, I can tell you what you'll be riding
over. A bigger problem than the loose shale (as far as my afraid of
heights self is concerned) is having something with some traction for the miles
of smooth stone (not sure what kind) you have to scrabble over where a slip
could send you off the cliff. But not all the trails require shoes. Where
are you going to ride from? Do you have a campground picked out
yet?
I am the MS rep for American Trail Horse
Association but our office is in IL. There is a ride Memorial Day weekend out of
Hayes Canyon. I can get you the information if you like. The ride is being
filmed for a show on RFDTV. I am not going to ride as it is my family reunion
weekend. I will be working at the ride and staying at grannies with the
family.You might get your horse on TV or get a chance to put a plug in for
endurance. :o)
Sorry if this isn't well organized. I'm working on
a serious lack of sleep today.
