Westfield Equestrian Access
Westfield Heritage Village welcomes equestrian riders and horse-driven carriages on designated multi-use trails.
Westfield is a shared-use site with hikers, families, school groups, dogs, and heritage programming throughout the year. Riders and drivers must follow all posted signage and trail etiquette to help maintain a safe experience for all visitors.
What to know:
Special Events
Horses and horse-driven carriages are not permitted during special events or regular public programming days at Westfield Heritage Village.
First-Time Riders and Carriage Drivers
Riders and horse-driven carriages must check in at the Gatehouse upon arrival for directions regarding parking, trailer access, and trail access points.
Organized carriage drives or larger group drives must contact Westfield Heritage Village in advance.
Riding Through the Village
For visitor safety and to support the heritage village experience, riders must dismount and walk horses through the village area rather than riding through the site.
Please proceed slowly and respectfully around visitors, staff, volunteers, and dogs.
Equestrian Trail Use and Safety
Please follow all HCA equestrian trail rules while visiting Westfield Heritage Village:
- Galloping on HCA trails is not permitted.
- Stay on designated trails at all times. Do not ride in mowed fields, creek or stream beds, or off designated trails.
- Expect the unexpected. Visitors, children, dogs, and site activities may be unpredictable or may startle horses.
- Manage your animals and do not bring “green” horses into HCA areas. Familiarize horses with expected trail encounters such as cyclists, dogs, strollers, and groups of visitors.
- Negotiate safe passes and communicate with other trail users early.
- Keep to the right of the trail. When passing others, always pass in single file at a walk.
- Kick or otherwise remove manure from the trail.
- Riders must keep group sizes to eight (8) horses or fewer to help reduce trail conflicts and safety concerns.
Seasonal Closures and Operations
Trail access may be impacted by:
• Wet trail conditions
• Operational or maintenance activities
Admission and Membership
An HCA Membership Pass allows one vehicle and one horse entry to areas where horses are permitted.
Contact Information
For questions regarding equestrian access, carriage drives, trail conditions, or special event impacts, contact Westfield Heritage Village before visiting.
Phone: 519-621-8851
Email: westfield@conservationhamilton.ca
