Back home again, but not for long. Winter was coming, so we planned another getaway. This time, we planned to swing from New York into Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and points west — into the Gila Wilderness in New Mexico, then the Grand Tetons in Wyoming. But remember, not all plans go just the way one would like them to. We left in March.  www.garthandkathy.com

A Family Place 

Our first stop was a quick visit to the Nashville, Tennessee, area, then north to Long C Trails (270/618-7500; www.longctrails.com). The ranch is on the Kentucky/Tennessee border. It’s so on the border, it straddles both states. The nearest town is Westmoreland, Tennessee, near Scottsville, Kentucky.  

Long C Trails, owned and operated by Jack Hanes, has lots of clean, family fun. It has a peaceful atmosphere with some of the most beautiful scenery in Middle Tennessee. This includes more than 2,000 acres (40 miles) of trails, winding streams, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, wildlife, and majestic bluffs.

The first thing that strikes your eye as you drive into the Long C is the office, which is in a typical southern home — white, with tall pillars holding up the porch. The home has a history that dates back many years, starting with a land grant from the Revolutionary War. 

Behind the office is a large stable area, with covered stalls holding close to 20 horses. Across the road is a large camping area, which offers water and electrical hookups, and a very clean bathhouse. Stalls are also available there, as well as primitive camping.

Country Trails

The trails at Long C lead into some pretty country. I like to ride along creeks, and they just happen to have one. There are many miles of easy trails, open areas to ride, and, of course, trails to follow, too.  

Our first day out, we started with some other campers, but ended up breaking off and riding by ourselves. This wasn’t a problem, as the trails are well-marked and take you off into some nice areas.

We discovered a cabin overlooking the creek, down in one end of a large open area. Later, we found out it was available for rent, if you wanted to be off by yourself. It’s a great spot for a group or a family.

Our second day’s ride was with Jack Hanes and a neighbor, Jean Baribeau. With these expert guides, we got to see areas we’d missed the first day, and learned the history of the place. It’s always nice to ride with someone who can give you a history lesson. A great day weather-wise, and of course, all that beautiful scenery.  

Our third day, we crossed to the other side of the road and found that the place truly offers a lot of places to ride. We met a lot of other campers and did some local shopping. Although Jack’s son, BJ, was always around doing something, we just never got to ride with him.

Back at the Ranch

The weekend brought two vendors and a farrier. One vendor was Randy Lowe, who owns Country Horse, a local tack shop. Strange how names pop up — I know another Randy Lowe, who’s a horse trainer and most interesting to talk to. Later, Randy  sat outside his trailer and played the guitar.

The other vendor was Image & Threads, owned by Alan and Ruth Tyler. Ruth also does the fancy stitching. I had a beautiful horse head and small poem put on the back of my windbreaker.

The farrier was Ted Meier. I have to admit, it was the first time I ever saw someone use an electric grinder on a horseshoe while the shoe was still on the horse. You learn something new every day.

On Sunday, there was cowboy church for those who wanted to join in. Also on the weekend, a breakfast was put on for the campers, plus one evening meal for a small fee.

All in all, Long C Trails is a place you can take your family, ride, and camp with a good feeling and comfort. I think springtime is one of the best times to visit, but the fall would offer a lot of color.

Well, that's getting better. Until then, remember to keep the cinch tight, and carry a working camera.