Trail riding can be one of the most enjoyable pleasures of horse ownership. For maximum enjoyment, following a few basic rules will make your hours on the trail safer and less problematic for every one involved, from the owners of the land, to the least experienced rider.
Nearly everyone realizes that riding in a group is safer than riding alone. When riding in a group, keep safety in mind and don’t crowd other horses. Never ride up on a horse at a faster speed. Make sure and allow at least a horse-length to the horse in front of you. When transitioning to a faster gait, don’t take off in the group. Horses are herd-bound creatures; and if one horse takes off, the other horses’ natural instinct is to follow.
My Horse University, an adjunct of Michigan State University's Equine Program offers these tips through their online course that addresses trail riding:
- Ride in a group rather than alone.
- Familiarize yourself with the rules of public trails or group riding areas.
- Keep horses that are prone to kicking in the back of the group.
- Be considerate when sharing the trail with other types of users. Most people do not have any experience with horses and may be timid or curious.
- Keep your horse's contact with waterways to a minimum.
- Ride on private land only with permission from the landowner.
- Minimize your environmental impact on the trail by staying in designated areas and carrying all trash and extra feed out with you.
- Private land should be ridden only with permission from the landowner. Many equestrian groups work with landowners to help maintain private trails for equestrian activities in their community.
When riding on private land, observe the following courtesies:
- Make sure you leave all gates as you found them.
- Don’t disturb livestock or pets.
- Ride only in designated areas and respect all landscape.
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Be mindful of fences, both new and old, that may be hidden in tall grass or brush.