Happy Trails: 5 Steps for a Safe, Fun Trail Ride

The breeze on your face. The sun on your back. Birds singing in the trees. A trail stretching out in front of you. A soft nicker from the horse you’re riding. This is why we trail ride. For the peace of a quiet forest; for the thrill of loping up a grassy hillside; for the stillness on a morning trail; the adventure of a water crossing in the afternoon. The best part is that it’s always changing - no two rides are alike.

And a good trail horse loves doing it as much as we do. 

But before you run out to the barn to saddle up, take a look at these 5 tips to make sure you get all you can out of your trail riding experiences!

1. Building Up: Are You Both Ready?

While it might be tempting to just take off through the arena gate, remember that both you and your horse will need time to prepare. Not only are the physical demands very different, but trail riding can require a lot of training for your horse. You’ll encounter things you’d never have to deal with riding close to home. Things like water crossings, deep ditches, steep hills, and even traffic and bicycles can be very daunting if they aren’t properly exposed to these things in a controlled environment. Begin with short rides through easy, nearby trails and slowly build up to longer more difficult trails. Take the time to give your horse positive training so your trail riding plans can be a success!

2. Tack and Pack: The Must-Have’s

Once your horse is thoroughly prepared for what you may encounter on the trail, it’s time to look over your tack. Make sure everything is in good condition. Pick saddles and bridles that will be comfortable over longer distances for both you and your horse. Double-check your cinch and buckles. You don’t want to find out that your bridle or saddle has a problem a mile down the trail (trust me, I’ve had it happen!). 

There are also some things you’ll want to have with you, for convenience as well as emergencies. Having a good pair of saddle bags or a backpack can make packing so much easier. #1 thing to bring is a first aid kit, for both riders and horses. Make sure you bring water and a hoof pick as well. 

3. Communications: Plans and Cellphones

Have a solid plan laid out of where you’re going to ride; at bare minimum know exactly where you’re going to start and where you’ll end your ride. And always, always tell people where you’ll be. For safety, it’s best to ride in groups. Just make sure all riders and horses are equally prepared for the ride. 

And no matter how well-planned you are, things can go wrong. Spooked horses, injuries, washed-out trails, and more can happen to all of us. So we need to be prepared. Carry a cell phone but do not put this in your saddle bags. This should be kept securely on you. Should you somehow get separated from your horse, you want the phone to be with you so you can call for the help you need. 

4. Possible Dangers: Being Aware

For all of its beauty, peace, and excitement, there are a lot of challenges and dangers that come with trail riding. Many trails are deep in the forest or in the mountains, where there are wild animals, such as bears, coyotes, and mountain lions among other things. (You can read about my experience with a mountain lion here: https://theamazinggracesta.wixsite.com/letsride/post/when-horses-play-hero-when-a-short-ride-goes-wrong). Be aware of what animals are likely to be in your area and have a set plan in case your group runs into a predator on the trail. Don’t go galloping away unless it’s absolutely necessary. And do not get off your horse, as you look less like a target while being mounted. Remain calm and reassuring for your horse. Do not turn your back to any of these dangers. Thankfully, most wild animals are skittish and will likely run off. If any dangerous wild animals are commonly seen in an area, it’s time to pick a different trail to ride.

5. Over Hill and Dale: Know The Land

Have a good idea of what terrains you are going to encounter and make sure you and your horse are up to the challenge. Be very honest with yourself about what you and your horse are capable of; don’t overdo it. Knowing what is ahead of you is the best way to be prepared. Going to be on steep hills? Might want to have a back cinch to be sure your saddle is secure. Is it a one-way trail that will require someone to be waiting with a horse trailer? Or is it a loop trail that will bring you back to your starting point? Estimate how long the trail will take so that you can be back while it is still light. You don’t want to be stuck out in the forest in the dark. I’ve done it and it’s not something I’d like to repeat. 

Passing a glassy smooth pond. Watching deer and fawn among the wildflowers. The sound of the wind in the trees. The smell of honeysuckle beside the trail. The feeling of freedom as you overlook a meadow from the saddle. This is why we trail ride. And this is why you’ll love it, too. Because the view is always better when you’re on horseback. With these tips in mind, go out and enjoy some trails with your horse.

The adventure awaits.