Trail riding on horseback requires preparation for both horse and rider. The amount of preparation you will be responsible for depends on whether you will be taking a guided trail riding tour at a stable that offers them or if you are trail riding with your horse. As someone who has been trail riding for over a decade, I’ll break down the steps you must take to ensure you are prepared to go trail riding.
Bring Essentials
Carry necessary items like water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Always make sure that someone in the group has a phone in case of an emergency. A phone armband or belt holster is a great way to carry your phone while horseback riding.
Tip: Silence your phone while riding!
Dress Appropriately
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Check the forecast beforehand since you might not be able to add or remove layers during the ride. Long pants are a must to protect against both brush and insects. Bring sturdy boots with a heel to keep your feet from slipping in the stirrups. If the boots are new, be sure to break them in before the ride to help prevent blisters.
Know the Route
If you’re taking a guided trail, you won’t have to worry as much about this step, but it never hurts to familiarize yourself with the trail you will be riding. Be aware of any potential hazards, such as steep inclines, water crossings, or rough terrain. If possible, bring a map or app to navigate with on your phone.
Note: When moving to a new area, a friend and I decided to try trail riding at a new park without doing any research ahead of time. The trail started fine but quickly became very overgrown, and we soon had to fight our way through the brush to trailblaze our way back to the trailer. Not fun!
Safety Precautions
Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. This is especially important when riding alone. Let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to be back. This is especially important when riding alone. Carry identification and emergency contact info in case of emergency.
Check Equipment
Ensure that your equipment is in good condition and fits properly. This includes your equipment as well as your horses. Once out on the trail, it’s too late to make any adjustments, so be sure that everything fits correctly and is working as intended.
Check your horse beforehand and take note of their condition. Look at their hooves to check for any damage or loose shoes. I’ve had a horse lose a shoe 20 minutes into a trail ride and it meant turning around and going home after trailering almost an hour to get there.
Trail Etiquette
Be aware of other people on the trail, such as hikers, bikers, and other horseback riders. Yield the right of way when necessary and maintain a safe distance at all times. Know that you may encounter dogs who bark at horses out on the trail, so it’s a good idea to familiarize your horse with dogs ahead of time. Be mindful when walking on roads that might have cars. Check your local laws to educate yourself on the rules of the road. Typically, it’s a good idea to go with the flow of traffic and ride on the shoulder if possible.
By taking these steps, you can make sure that you and your horse have a good time while out trail riding.