Crystal Rilee
Park Equestrians

Committed to the Development, Education, and Enjoyment of Equestrian Trails for Equestrians

History

Crystal Rilee was the last member of the Parrett family to be born and raised on Parrett Mountain. At a young age, Crystal developed an understanding of the hardships required to carve a living from the land. At the same time, she developed a passion for family history and a fascination with how her family had helped shape the land and how the land had shaped their lives in return.

Leaving Parrett Mountain to pursue a career in government service during World War II, she met and married a Navy man, Robert Rilee. Together, they returned to Parrett Mountain in 1953. As the decades passed and Portland’s suburban development reached the mountain, Crystal and Bob became deeply concerned about the future of her family’s land. Their most fervent wish was that the remaining 327 acres of land, history, and traditions be preserved. Upon their death, the land became a part of Chehalem Park and Recreation District to be preserved for the people of our area for generations to come.

Mission

Crystal Rilee Park Equestrians aims to collaborate with the “CPRD” to specifically support equestrian activities for riders and hikers of all skill levels, ensuring their enjoyment, learning, and safety. We are dedicated to raising awareness and securing essential funds through donations and volunteer efforts to enhance the park’s infrastructure. The diminishing availability of open spaces for riders to safely learn and explore in our community has become a cause for concern. We strongly believe that this park presents an extraordinary opportunity to create a historically significant and breathtaking environment that will be cherished by both current and future generations.

Objectives

1. Raise awareness about the park’s equestrian and trail network.
2. Explore fundraising opportunities, and make connections.
3. Build a volunteer base for trail maintenance, event planning, and support.
4. Engage youth in the community, and encourage their involvement.
5. Local law enforcement training site opportunities.
6. Aim for self-sustainability through revenue from arena rentals and trial course obstacles.

Riders on horses

Projects

  • Rilee Equestrian Trail Course
  • Rilee Park Indoor Arena
  • All-Weather Trail Footing
  • Mounting Blocks
  • Hitching Posts
  • Signage Improvements
  • Trailer Parking Lot Improvements
  • Spectator Bench
  • Trail Loop Additions and Improvement

Involvement

Stay informed of progress, group rides, clinic opportunities, volunteer and donation opportunities.

Join our Facebook page here:

CONTRIBUTE

Interested in donating? Your contribution reflects a deep desire to positively impact the Crystal Rilee Park Equestrians community and makes a meaningful, lasting impact in it’s preservation.

Crystal Rilee Park Equestrians is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and your contribution is tax deductible.  Our tax ID number is :  93-3981715.

Riders on horses in park
aerial view of horse trailer parking lot

Directions

The HORSE TRAILER PARKING LOT is located at 10755 NE Parrett Mt. Road Newberg, OR 97132.

While hauling, we recommend avoiding Haugen Rd as this is a direct route but a very steep and very winding approach. Instead, we would advise using the Ladd Hill Rd approach and then turning onto SW Parrett Mt. Road. After two miles, arrive at the equestrian lot on your right.

There are two access points from the parking lot into the park, either on the West side (steeper, more technical trails) or across the road to the East side (gentle and wider trails) option.

“I believe horses and humans have a connection that draws us to each other. I believe in their own way they know we need them and they are pleased to be our partner whether it be in work or sport. We need to remember to never take this privilege of working and living with horses for granted. To never lose our appreciation for what they have given us throughout the history of time and to be sure that their relevance in our society does not fade away. This is our greatest responsibility as equestrians.” -McLain Ward