About the Haney Horsemen Chapter
The Haney Horsemen Chapter of Back Country Horsemen of BC is a not-for-profit equestrian organization operated entirely by volunteers. For more than 50 years, our members have been committed to protecting, improving and supporting equestrian trails throughout the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows area.
In 2025, club members voted to become a chapter of Back Country Horsemen of BC. Joining the provincial organization allows us to continue advocating for equestrian trails and supporting riders in our region as part of a larger network with shared values and goals.
A Legacy of Trail Stewardship
Our history can be traced back to The Ridge Riders, also known as the Maple Ridge Riding & Driving Club, which was formed in 1942. The club began supporting the development of the local equestrian trail network in the 1960s.
Over the following decades, volunteers built and maintained trails, researched and applied for funding grants, and worked closely with local governments and land management agencies to identify suitable trail routes.
In response to the new Maple Ridge Official Community Plan, The Ridge Riders began reviewing the club’s formal structure in 1978 so it could better support its primary role as a trail steward and builder. In January 1981, the group registered the Haney Horsemen Association as a non-profit society.
With its new structure and a service agreement with the district, the organization helped provide ongoing maintenance for existing trails while creating important connections between trail systems throughout the community.
Working With the Community
In 2012, the Haney Horsemen entered into a revised agreement with the district. Under this agreement, the organization continued to work closely with the district to identify priorities for maintaining and renovating existing trails.
However, club volunteers were no longer responsible for conducting formal inspections or completing the physical trail work. The club was also relieved of the responsibility for funding the associated liability insurance, which had become a significant financial burden.
Becoming Part of Back Country Horsemen of BC
Population growth and continued development throughout the Lower Mainland have increasingly affected access to existing trails and natural recreation areas. In response, our members determined that the most effective way to continue our commitment to trail stewardship was to become part of a larger provincial recreational trails organization.
In 2025, the Haney Horsemen officially became a chapter of the Back Country Horsemen Society of British Columbia. With our shared commitment to trail access, stewardship, volunteerism and community partnerships, joining BCHBC represents a natural evolution for the organization and its longstanding work.