Sunday, September 6, 2026
Ride for a Reason
Join us Sunday, September 6, 2026, for the 2nd Annual Saddle Up for Saugeen Hospice Trail Ride, proudly hosted by River Ridge Equestrian in Walkerton, ON.
This fundraising trail ride invites equestrians and their horses to enjoy over 8km of scenic trails winding through beautiful bush, groomed fields, and along the Saugeen River. Riders can travel at a comfortable, self-selected pace in small groups, creating a welcoming, enjoyable, and safe experience for all skill levels. For those looking for a little extra adventure, optional obstacles, jumps, and river access will be available along the route.
This year’s theme, Ride for a Reason, celebrates the impact that can be made when a community comes together for a meaningful cause. Bring your own horse, enjoy a day on the trails, and help support the future of hospice care in our region. All proceeds from the event will benefit Saugeen Hospice Inc., helping provide compassionate end-of-life care and support for local individuals and families.
Choose Your Ride
Morning Ride
The morning ride begins at approximately 9:00 a.m. and offers a more forward, energetic experience lasting about one hour. Designed as a “mock hunter pace,” this timed ride encourages riders to maintain a steady, efficient pace while working as a team. It is not a race. Riders may walk, trot, and lightly canter according to the posted trail signs, with the goal of completing the course as close as possible to the ideal time.
Afternoon Ride
The afternoon ride begins at approximately 12:00 noon and lasts about two hours. It offers a calm, steady and scenic experience, primarily at a walk or slow trot. It is ideal for riders who prefer a relaxed pace and an opportunity to enjoy the trails and conversation with their group.
Riders will head out every ten minutes in small groups. You may register with friends or register individually and be matched with a friendly group of compatible riders.
More Ways to Take Part
Throughout the fundraising period, registered riders will be recognized through monthly incentive awards presented on May 6, June 6, July 6, and August 6. These awards celebrate participants fundraising efforts and encourage riders to continue working toward their pledge goals. Ribbons and trophies will also be awarded on event day.
In addition, a Grand Fundraising Award will be awarded on September 6, 2026, to the rider who raises the highest total amount in pledges. Every pledge collected helps support the mission of Saugeen Hospice Inc.
Follow River Ridge Equestrian’s social media pages for updates, incentive award announcements, fundraising highlights, and important event information leading up to ride day.
Fundraising and Donations
This is a fundraising event in support of Saugeen Hospice Inc., with a minimum pledge donation of $75 per rider.
Donations of $20 or more are eligible for an official charitable tax receipt issued by Saugeen Hospice Inc.
To have fundraising totals recorded, participants should submit their completed pledge form along with any funds collected throughout the fundraising period. Completed pledge forms, and funds raised to date may be submitted by e-transfer to saddleupforsaugeenhospice@gmail.com.
Cash or cheque donations may also be submitted on event day. Participants are encouraged to submit fundraising totals before the monthly incentive award dates of May 6, June 6, July 6, and August 6. Final fundraising totals must be received by September 6, 2026, to be considered for the Grand Fundraising Award.
Rider Safety
The event is designed to provide a friendly, organized and safe experience for riders and horses.
Participants must provide proof of current insurance before unloading on event day. Approved riding helmets must be worn whenever mounted, and dogs are not permitted at the event. Riders must also complete the required acknowledgment of risk, release of liability and photo release forms.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 6, 2026
Location: River Ridge Equestrian Centre
Address: 760 Sideroad 5 South, Walkerton
Registration and inquiries: saddleupforsaugeenhospice@gmail.com