Backcountry Horsemen of California
Top of the State Unit

In a lighter vein, it is always our pleasure to help the "through hikers" and riders going from Mexico to Canada on the PCT. When we meet them and say we are Backcountry Horsemen, the smiles appear on their faces and they share their appreciation for the open trail. From the brush fields andclosed trails they were dreading, they now find it a pleasure to continue their hike.

Backcountry Horsemen work hard, but also have fun. Each year we offer a Fair booth at the Siskiyou County Golden Fair which is designed to educate the public about our foals and the program of Leave No Trace -- techniques of back wilderness camping. Under the direction and design of Betty Rais, secretary for our unit, we again took home a blue Ribbon in 2004. We offer organized rides for our membership starting in the Spring and ending in the Fall. Rides are under the leadership of Mida Payne and for insurance purposes, one must be a member of BCHC; we support riding in three different parades, we do a yearly campout at Carter Meadow just for the pleasure of camping and riding (no trail work involved); and we do a yearly Christmas party and corned beef and cabbage feed, which affords a time for "trail ride" tales, dissemination of information and sharing of friendships.

It is our goal to help keep the back country open to all hikers and riders and another often overlooked value is that open trails also aid in helping fire fighters and equipment move to the fire scene through the wilderness areas without impedance and also allows a Search and Rescue mission to be carried out. It is our hope that all those who choose, can enjoy the back country of America.