THE BULL VALLEY RIDING CLUB
THE BVRC
The Bull Valley Riding Club (BVRC) is a trail riding organization serving the local equestrian community in the Village of Bull Valley, Illinois and adjacent unincorporated areas.
The BVRC was formed in 1963 when residents joined forces for the purpose of providing and maintaining safe off-road bridle trails. The club was subsequently incorporated in 1965 as a not-for-profit 501(c)(7) private social club.
The BVRC maintains an extensive network of over 50 miles of contiguous, interconnected bridle trails on private property, through the individual agreements between property owners (both with and without horses) and the club. Many sections of bridle trail are preserved through the establishment of permanent legal easements that are attached to the land.
The BVRC is an integral part of the community lifestyle, brand and philosophy of the Village of Bull Valley, promoting open space, environmental awareness and animal welfare. Our number one priority is respecting the property owner, their privacy and their land. Maintaining strong relationships with our property owners is the key to our longevity. Thanks to these unique and generous partnerships, this historic trail network, under the guidance of a volunteer Board of Directors and hard-working members, has been in continuous existence for over 58 years!
Additionally, the bridle trails provide an added benefit of enhancing property values throughout the area. Horse owners need room to ride. They are willing to pay higher prices for property in an area that offers a trail network, open space and beautiful vistas.
THE TRAILS
The BVRC bridle trails are exclusively used for horseback riding only. Trail markings and indicators are designed to be inconspicuous and the location of the trails are kept confidential to members only. When riding, each member is required to display saddle tags as proof of membership and follow a strict set of trail rules. The trails are maintained by professional landscaping services and club members. Sections of the BVRC bridle trail system directly connect to the Boone Creek Conservation Area bridle trail which is managed by the McHenry County Conservation District. The club continually looks for opportunities to augment the trail system, provide access to new horse properties or improve sections of trail for scenic or safety reasons.
CLUB MEMBERSHIP
BVRC members must reside in or board their horses within designated geographical boundaries in or near the Village of Bull Valley. Approved applicants are sponsored by a current member in good standing for their introduction to the trails, rules and etiquette.
The BVRC also offers social memberships for friends of the club or members who no longer ride or live in the community, which helps to maintain that special connection to the club.
LIABILITY PROTECTION
The club carries liability insurance that includes coverage of property owners against accidents and injuries. In addition, each member (and any guests) sign an agreement to honor strict trail rules and release property owners from liability for accidents or injuries to themselves or their horses. We have never had a liability claim in our club's history.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
The club hosts a property owner appreciation festival or other appreciation activities each year. For members, the club hosts group trail rides, play dates and other events.
The BVRC is a member of the Equestrian Land Conservation Resource (ELCR), the Equine Coalition of McHenry County (ECMC) and the Horsemen's Council of Illinois (HCI).
The club is also a supporter of other local organizations, including Main Stay Therapeutic Farm, the Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS), the McHenry County Horse Club, The Land Conservancy of McHenry County (TLC) and the McHenry County Conservation District (MCCD).
TO JOIN
For more information or to join the Bull Valley Riding Club, contact:
©2023 Bull Valley Riding Club. All Rights Reserved.