Trailblazers is not a traditional riding program — it’s a hands-on, learn-by-doing experience.
At Trailblazers, young people develop responsibility, self-confidence, leadership, and strong community values. Participants gain practical skills such as fence building, farm maintenance, basic veterinary care, driving and riding.
Trailblazers welcomes participants of all ages, from 10 to 70 years old.
Fees & Requirements
$20 per child helps cover costs, but no one is turned away — every child who wants to ride is welcome! An Island Horse Council membership is required, which provides liability insurance.
- Youth (ages 10–19) meet on Saturdays 9-4.
- Adults (20 and over) may attend by appointment during designated times.
- The Trailblazer Smalls summer program is available for children ages 5–9.
Join our Trailblazers Club
We encourage families to contact us ahead of time to confirm meeting days, as schedules can vary.
My life has been enriched by the talents of my Trailblazers. Through the years I have been gifted with many works of art, handcrafts, letters of appreciation. They have shared their many gifts. The following is a poem by Kelsey Langille about the horses at the Sanctuary some years ago. There are not so many at the Sanctuary now, as many have crossed the rainbow bridge.
– Yogi
Ode To The Sanctuary
DOLLY, and HONEY what horses to be,
what would we do without those sweet peas?
We have Mr. Perfect, FINALLY’s got it all
and the great sweetheart ART, man he is tall!
OBIE, BUNNY, STREETER, SHEENA, and SPRITE,
They’re the quiet ones, yeah they are the strong silent type.
FANCY and JAMAICA, now they’r quite the pair,
drama just follows them everywhere.
DARLING has made a great effort this year,
the best improved pony, that much is clear.
MOCHA’s unique outlook was put to good use,
I hope she remembers to never downduce.
DANA, the dreamer, GIDGET so smiley,
the one always talking? That would be MOLLY.
BABE, just watches the horses that’s be tricking’,
by the way babe, what’s with the licking’?
SUNDAY so quiet, while PRIZE, well she’s not,
MORNING gives everything, all that she’s got.
SWEETUMS and BREEZY they are just zooming
While OH OH and GUS are probably cruising
TONY, the llama was born a few years ago,
but can he spit? The answer is no.
DAWSON it’s true your’r a real work of art,
This barn and these horses have taken up most of my heart!
Written by Kelsey the summer 2009