Transitioning from a closed-in arena to wide-open fields and trails can be disorienting. Not only is this a physical change, but a psychological one as well. When riding a horse on the trail, it is imperative to keep safety protocol in mind, both for the riders and the horses as well.
Tell Someone
Even when trail riding in a group, riders should let someone at the barn know where they are going and when they will be back. If they don't return, others can go looking for them to make sure they have not met any danger. A sign-out board at the barn is perfect for this, and shows that the barn owner cares about trail riding safety.
Know the Animals
Trail riding safety requires that all riders know each of the horses. Some animals prefer to lead in a pack, while others would rather follow. Although riders should always be in control of their horses, it pays to know how horses will react to different group situations. For example, if a novice rider is on a horse who is known to buck when forced into the back of a group, it is best to allow that horse to stay near the front.
It is also a good idea to know the horses' fitness levels. For example, a horse who hasn't been worked in weeks is probably not capable of a ten-mile ride. Fashion each trail-riding expedition to match the fitness levels of the horses and riders.
Bring a Cell Phone
Modern technology might not be welcome when riding a horse, but it can save a rider's life. At least one person should bring a cell phone for trail riding safety; keeping it on "silent" or "vibrate" will limit interruptions but provide a communication tool in the event of an emergency.
Scout the Area
Riding a horse on unfamiliar trails can be dangerous. For trail riding safety, consider walking the trail before riding it. Look for fallen branches, holes in the ground, long vines, low branches and other potential dangers. If a trail doesn't seem safe during the walk, find somewhere else to ride until the problem is fixed.
Carry the Right Equipment
A saddle bag might seem cumbersome and a bit anachronistic, but it can be a life-saver when riding a horse on the trail. When properly attached to the saddle, it will go virtually unnoticed by the rider. In this saddle bag, a rider should bring several pieces of equipment for trail riding safety:
- Flashlight
- Bottles of water
- Small First Aid kit
- Halter
- Lead rope
- Hoof pick
- Knife or Leatherman tool
These items might not be needed while riding a horse on the trail. Nevertheless, having them in a saddle bag will take the anxiety out of trail riding and allow both horses and riders to enjoy themselves.
Prepare for Interruptions
When trail riding on land that is also used by other vehicles, such as motorcycles and ATVs, keep on constant watch. Listen for the sounds of their motors and have a plan for dealing with them. Some horses will spook when confronted with unexpected sights and sounds, so it is a bad idea to take an anxious horse on a potentially dangerous trail.
Practice Trail Riding Etiquette
Trail riding etiquette is not written down on a book of rules, but is instead understood by all equestrians for trail riding safety. Not only does this foster good communication, but it can also avoid accidents. Keep plenty of distance between horses, signal before turning sharply off the trail, discuss gait changes ahead of time and stay in the pre-decided order.
Trail riding safety becomes second nature after many years of experience, but until then, keep a checklist. This will help riders remember what they are supposed to do and how they are supposed to behave when riding a horse in the open.
Laura Thompson - Laura Thompson is a horseback riding instructor and freelance writer living in Houston, Texas. She is proud to be the feature writer for ...
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