In less than 15 years, the Wood River Valley has lost at least five public riding facilities due to the sale of the property or a change in facility use.  We have a very strong equestrian community here, ranging from pleasure riders to Olympic riders, 4H’ers to Pony Clubbers, and extreme trail riders to eventers.  With land becoming more valuable, finding available equestrian training facilities is becoming increasingly more difficult. To meet the needs of our local equestrians, a non-profit, multi-discipline horse park is being developed in Bellevue, Idaho.  The park will be used similarly to Rafter K, a facility that recently closed, that had attracted riders from Boise, the Magic Valley, McCall, Ontario, Jackson Hole, Elko, Salt Lake City, and beyond.  Local and regional shows and clinics were held there regularly and equestrians used the facility on a near daily basis when the weather allowed.

The intent of the Winter Sun Horse Park is to build a trail/obstacle course, cross country jumping course, and offer the same opportunities as Rafter K.  Schooling, training, lessons, and pleasure use for equestrians of all disciplines can be arranged at the park. The facility will also be used for local and regional activities and shows.  In the foreseeable future, nationally recognized shows may also be hosted at Winter Sun Horse Park.