Supporting sustainable recreation, conservation, and Alberta’s backcountry riding heritage.
The Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) is proud to announce that it has been named the Trail Manager for a network of non-motorized designated and provincial trails within the Panther Corners and Dormer/Sheep Public Land Use Zones, two highly valued Crown land areas located adjacent to the iconic Ya Ha Tinda region on Alberta’s eastern slopes.
These landscapes are deeply rooted in Alberta’s equestrian and ranching heritage and are widely used by recreational backcountry riders, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts who rely on healthy, well-managed trails to safely access the backcountry, often from the back of a horse.
This new role is formalized through a Trail Agreement between the Government of Alberta and the Alberta Equestrian Federation that came into effect the end of January.
“As AEF takes on the role of Trails Manager, we’re marking a significant milestone for Alberta’s equestrian community,” says Jason Edworthy, President of the Alberta Equestrian Federation. “Equestrian use is woven into the fabric of our province’s culture and heritage, offering Albertans unique ways to connect with our landscapes. By managing trails, AEF can ensure safe, sustainable access for riders and contribute meaningfully to Alberta’s tourism sector—inviting more visitors to experience our trails, support local businesses, and discover the spirit of Alberta from horseback.”
AEF’s new role aligns closely with the Government of Alberta’s recently announced Plan for Parks and the Crown Land Recreation and Conservation Strategy, which together set a long-term vision for balancing recreation growth with conservation across provincial parks and public lands.
Supporting Trails Where Horses Belong
The Panther Corners and Dormer/Sheep Public Land Use Zones are well known within Alberta’s horse community for their rugged beauty, wildlife habitat, and long-standing use by riders and drivers exploring the eastern slopes. Their proximity to Ya Ha Tinda places them within a broader, interconnected recreation landscape where thoughtful trail management is essential.
“By managing trails, AEF can ensure safe, sustainable access for riders.”
AEF President, Jason Edworthy
As Trail Manager, AEF will help ensure that equestrian use continues to be recognized, respected, and sustainably supported alongside other forms of outdoor recreation.
AEF’s Role as Trail Manager
In this role, AEF will support the responsible management of trails by coordinating maintenance and repairs, monitoring trail conditions and hazards, submitting annual reports on completed work and observations to the Government of Alberta, and supporting volunteer involvement and member club participation. This work helps ensure safe, sustainable trail access for all users while protecting the land and wildlife that make these areas so special.
A Commitment to Alberta’s Horse Community
The Alberta Equestrian Federation is honoured to help steward the Panther Corners and Dormer/Sheep trail systems on behalf of Alberta’s horse owners, trail riders, wagoneers and drivers, outfitters, and rural communities. As this new Trail Manager role progresses and the work begins to take shape, we will continue to keep our members informed every step of the way with updates and news from the trail.
Horses have shaped access to these lands for generations, and AEF remains committed to ensuring that horseback riding continues to have a strong, respected place in the future of Alberta’s public land recreation.
For more information, email Kenda Lubeck, AEF Communications & Marketing.