What we do
Established in 1938, Fairfield Bridle Trails Association is a 501-3C not-for-profit organization. Fairfield and its surrounding towns offer many opportunities for trail riding. Thanks to the support of sympathetic homeowners, local land trusts and designated open spaces, the FBTA is able to maintain this historic and extensive network of riding trails in Fairfield County.
We also facilitate equine-related lessons and clinics, group rides, hunter paces, polo tailgates, socials and special events focusing on the traditions of horsemanship. FBTA membership is open to riders and non-riding social members. Donations are tax deductible.
Trail Network Preservation
The FBTA strives to ensure the trails are safe and accessible for horse and rider. Many trails cross private property, so for security and liability reasons, the FBTA trail system is only open to FBTA’s Riding Members on horseback. If you wish to ride the trails, become a member! Refer to our trail rules here.
Trail Maintenance
As community stewards of the bridle trail network, the FBTA holds several Trail Maintenance Workshops each year to insure the safety of horse and riders. We’re always looking for volunteers to help with trail maintenance. If you’re interested, please contact us at fairfieldbridletrails@gmail.com.
Special Events
The FBTA plans special events which appeal to riders, social members and equestrian-minded individuals alike. Past events included a luncheon and equestrian fashion show at The Fairfield Hunt Club which traced the history of equestrian attire used for every sport from polo to fox hunting, above.
Group + Beach Rides
Membership in the FBTA includes formal invitations to scheduled group trail rides as well as spontaneous email blasts offering beach rides at low tide with members. On the calendar of upcoming events for 2022 is the popular Jingle Jog Holiday costumed ride, pictured above.
Equine Clinics & Lectures
The FBTA’s clinics and lectures are given by experts in their fields and have included topics such as hoof care, equestrian skill clinics and veterinarian insights and advice.
Hunter Paces
The FBTA keeps members abreast of the Hunter Pace schedule and plans group outings to several Hunter Paces during the season which runs from June through October. Past Hunter Paces have included Bedford Riding Lanes, photo above.
Tailgates & Socials
From polo season tailgates to Kentucky Derby Watches to our annual Holiday Party, the FBTA is a warm and welcoming social group of horse-owners, riders, and equestrian-loving social members who enjoy being around like-minded “horse-people” who believe in the FBTA’s mission.
FBTA Equine Directory
Available to members only, the FBTA Equine Directory is a comprehensive and up-to-date listing of useful local contacts: large animal vets, blacksmiths, horse-sitters, stables, hunter paces, polo centers, fox-hunts, leather repair, tack exchange, insurance, horse turnout, state parks, etc.