Both visitors and residents can participate in a number of activities on the Southlands Flats, including:
Focus of equestrian activity in Southlands is the Southlands Riding Club. This 16.5 acre facility is home to a variety of riding activities, including jumping, dressage, and cross country -- as well as non-competitive pleasure riding. Amenities include a large indoor arena, several outdoor rings, a half-mile track, a cross country course, a polo field and a clubhouse. Numerous adults' and children's equestrian events, open to the public, are held during the year -- everything from formal dressage shows to exciting jumping and cross country competitions to the Prince Philip Games (games for children on ponies).
The Riding Club has no stabling on-site, however, and relies on stables (both private and commercial) throughout Southlands to provide accommodation for members' horses. [Future link to a list of commercial stables in Southlands]
Commercial stables in Southlands provide lessons and rental ponies/horses for children and adults. The Vancouver Pony Club is for children from 8 to 21 years. The Pony Club organizes competitions and provides instruction in riding and stable management.
Southlands river trails are used by walkers (and their dogs!), riders, cyclists and runners from all over the lower mainland. There are two significant trails, both following the Fraser River and offering views of the river, its wildlife, its marine traffic and, on a clear day, the north shore mountains.
The first trail follows the Fraser River from the eastern end of Celtic Avenue, along the McCleery Golf Course to the edge of the Marine Drive Golf Course. Trail enthusiasts hope that some day the pathway can be continued upstream along the river to join the trails of the Angus Lands to the east.
The second trail begins at the southern end of Blenheim Street. Starting out along Celtic Slough, it continues along the Fraser west along the foot of Point Grey Golf Course. It then turns north and winds by the Musqueam Reserve, eventually coming out at the junction of Southwest Marine Drive and West 41st Avenue. Crossing that intersection, the trail connects with the Pacific Spirit Park trail network.