Saddle up for an adventure in Horse Town USA!
I live in a horse friendly neighborhood, but sometimes it’s nice to check out other equestrian areas. Norco, California aka Horse Town USA is about an hour drive from my house (with no traffic). This charming place takes horse friendly to a whole new level.
Most of the homes have horses, there are dirt paths along the streets for riding, cross walk buttons for riders and hitching posts or corrals at almost every store in town. Not to mention there are plenty of equestrian shops, feed stores, a trailer dealer and a nice equine vet facility. If you happen to be a horse lover and find yourself in Los Angeles, I encourage you to take a day trip out to Norco and go explore.
My friend Robyn and I wanted to go out for an adventure, so I suggested riding up to Pumpkin Rock. If the name didn’t explain, Pumpkin Rock is just a giant rock that’s painted orange like a pumpkin. This short trail is just over a mile long and all up hill. We parked at the George Ingalls Equestrian Center (lower lot)and rode up to catch the start of the trail.
A group of giant metal horse statues greeted us early on the trail. Both mares were perplexed by the still equines. It took a few minutes for them to get some confidence and approach the sculptures. Fira was so curious about these creatures.
From there, we continued up the trail. It gets steep and while it’s not a long trail, I was glad Fira was in shape for the hills. She handled them like a champ.
Pumpkin Rock
We made it! The horses enjoyed a nice long break at the top for photos and carrots. You get a nice view of Norco at the top.
The two Paint mares strike a pose in front of Pumpkin Rock.
If you are looking for a fun fall hike, Pumpkin Rock is perfect. There is no shade, so go early in the morning or at night. We had a nice early start and were happy to be heading down before it got too hot for the day.
We climbed down and rode into town on 6th Street, taking in all the sights.
We enjoyed a tasty bite at Señor Tacos. They have horse friendly parking and delicious shrimp tacos.
The next time you are in the area, make sure to stop by Norco with or without your horse.
Mary says
Fun
Bill M Thacker says
I can remember when that was the 76 rock. Fir 1976 200 years of freedom. It was painted like the flag 🚩
Jennifer says
What a neat place! I love the horse friendly parking.
Cheryl says
That looks like fun! I’d never heard of Norco. How do you get there? One of you must have a truck and trailer. Divorce. I got the trailer. He got the truck. After I bought a car 3 years ago I was kicking myself for not looking at trucks!
De Hufford says
Looks like fun!
Oscar vidales says
There are local spots where you can rent horses for the day. A river and nature center are not too far away from pumpkin rock.