by Megan Worley

Created on: October 24, 2009   Last Updated: October 25, 2009

Safe Trail Riding

Trail riding is a great activity for both the horse and rider. Trail riding gives the rider and the horse a break from the pressures of training and time to simply enjoy each other's company. At the same time however trail riding offers different challenges than riding in an arena and horses can behave unpredictably when not confined to an arena. Being prepared for trail riding can make it much safer and more enjoyable.

Don't Ride Alone

Riding by yourself in an arena, where your horse is enclosed and expects to act a certain way but the trails is a much more uncertain. When you are riding on the trails anything can happen and even the best horse can spook or react badly. Trail riding also offers very different obstacles such as water or downed trees. Even the best of riders could lose their balance and fall off. Having another person with you will make falling off much easier. Your horse is also less likely to bolt or behave badly if you have another horse that is calm with you.

Wear Appropriate Clothing and Safety Gear

A helmet should always be worn, especially when riding in an unfamiliar place with unknown obstacles. If you are going to be jumping or may be going over or through water or objects you may also want to wear a protective vest and put special protective boots on your horse. Also be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately. Wear gloves and warm clothes that can be taken off if you start to overheat.

Know where you are going

Only ride on trails that you know, or can carry a map too. If neither of those is possible take a person with you who is familiar with the trails and will know where they are going. Although most trails that accommodate horses are often too short to really get lost on it is still possible. Getting lost on the trails can mean that you are out after dark, which is something you should avoid.

Only take out horses you know and are comfortable with

Trail riding should only be done on horses that you know well. If you know a horse well you will know in general what their reactions to certain situations are going to be and what they are likely to be afraid of. It is also likely that you will know how to calm them down and stop them from spooking. If the horse knows you well it is also likely to be much more comforted and will likely be less nervous in unfamiliar areas. The horse is also probably going to respond better to being asked to perform odd tasks such as turning around in tight spots and crossing water.

If you are new to riding and want to try trail riding ask your trainer to go with you.

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