Fuzzy Horses, Clear Days, Hot Chocolate

Winter at Blackberry Farm is a good time to be with horses. The trail horses are now big, furry fuzzballs lounging in the fields soaking Winter sun. The miniature horses Chef, Radish and Very Berry look like teddy bears! All the hunt horses are neatly clipped and bundled in thick warm rugs – fit and ready for a full day out galloping, harking to the horn and the hounds’ ringing voices. Our carriage horses love the brisk air. You’ll see them proudly trotting down the road with sleigh bells, ringing in a Winter day in the countryside.

Winter at Blackberry: Snowflakes flurry. Smoke lazes from blazing fires. The scent of pine. Steel shoes on pavement. A soft nicker at feed time. Life is good here, for horses and for people.

We love that bare trees open vistas we have missed for months. The big mountains loom large, ours for the taking. No sweat for the horses, their breath forms Winter clouds around us as we ride up to the best views.

Saddle up. Venture forth. Climb that mountain. Follow the hounds or snuggle up in the back of a vintage-style carriage with a cup of steaming hot chocolate.

Our western trail saddles have gel seats with soft memory foam cushions on top. Sink deep and stay warm. We welcome non-riders who want to try it out. Learn to love a horse. Speak his language. See the Farm in a whole new way.

Our English horses are fine jumpers. You’ll come in from a good day’s gallop with rosy cheeks and a sense of accomplishment. Tally ho, the fox, if you wish.

Blackberry’s carriage horses set the pace for a relaxing time here. Nestle in the back seat with your loved one and a favorite libation, or bring the family and sing to the bells as we clip clop and jingle our way around the Farm.

Yes, life is good here. You’ll enjoy it even more with a horse.

– Carla Hawkinson, Equestrian Program Manager