Horse trail riding has grown in popularity. It feels terrific to be out riding in the fresh air with friends or family, enjoying a spring day. It is never a good idea to go off trail riding alone; not only will your horse become nervous and agitated being alone, if something were to happen you could be in great danger. If your horse is a show horse, it is also a great diversion for him from working all the time in the arena. Before you go off on your ride, there are a few things that should be done first.
Beforehand
Your horse must know how to respond to basic commands. Your horse should also be trained in a controlled situation how to deal with sudden, unexpected events. When confronted with a loud noise for example, don't let him turn away and try to flee, but slowly continue. It is a good idea to call ahead and see what trail conditions are like. Give your horse a good grooming to alert him that something special is coming up. If it is buggy, treat him with insect spray (remember to bring some for yourself too). Make sure he has been well fed and watered. Tell someone where your group is going and how long you think you will be gone.
Make sure the saddle fits well, and check your tack for any splits or tears. You will want to bring a hoof pick in case a stone gets lodged in his foot. You will also need a basic first aid kit with Vet Wrap (to wrap his foot if he loses a shoe), duct tape, bandages, rolled cotton and blood coagulant. It is a good idea to bring a cell phone; keep it in your pocket instead of the saddlebag, in case you have some kind of difficulty. But if you are in a remote area, or a heavily wooded area, the phone might not work.
The Trail
Dress in comfortable clothes. Long pants and shirts are a good idea, not only because of bugs, but to keep from getting scratched by trees or bushes. Ride centered in the saddle. A safety helmet is a good idea. It will also protect you from getting hit by a tree limb. If it is cold, dress in layers in case you get heated up. Walk the horse for the first half a mile or so to get him warmed up. The most experienced rider should lead. Ride at a speed that is comfortable with the least experienced rider. Keep a distance of two horse lengths between riders.
You should be aware of your surroundings at all times, and ready to respond calmly if a deer startles your horse suddenly. Wearing a back pack is not a good idea; it might cause your horse to lose his balance, and it could get caught in tree limbs. If there are steep hills, dismount and walk. Only cross water at designated areas. And by all means enjoy the ride.
Beforehand
Your horse must know how to respond to basic commands. Your horse should also be trained in a controlled situation how to deal with sudden, unexpected events. When confronted with a loud noise for example, don't let him turn away and try to flee, but slowly continue. It is a good idea to call ahead and see what trail conditions are like. Give your horse a good grooming to alert him that something special is coming up. If it is buggy, treat him with insect spray (remember to bring some for yourself too). Make sure he has been well fed and watered. Tell someone where your group is going and how long you think you will be gone.
Make sure the saddle fits well, and check your tack for any splits or tears. You will want to bring a hoof pick in case a stone gets lodged in his foot. You will also need a basic first aid kit with Vet Wrap (to wrap his foot if he loses a shoe), duct tape, bandages, rolled cotton and blood coagulant. It is a good idea to bring a cell phone; keep it in your pocket instead of the saddlebag, in case you have some kind of difficulty. But if you are in a remote area, or a heavily wooded area, the phone might not work.
The Trail
Dress in comfortable clothes. Long pants and shirts are a good idea, not only because of bugs, but to keep from getting scratched by trees or bushes. Ride centered in the saddle. A safety helmet is a good idea. It will also protect you from getting hit by a tree limb. If it is cold, dress in layers in case you get heated up. Walk the horse for the first half a mile or so to get him warmed up. The most experienced rider should lead. Ride at a speed that is comfortable with the least experienced rider. Keep a distance of two horse lengths between riders.
You should be aware of your surroundings at all times, and ready to respond calmly if a deer startles your horse suddenly. Wearing a back pack is not a good idea; it might cause your horse to lose his balance, and it could get caught in tree limbs. If there are steep hills, dismount and walk. Only cross water at designated areas. And by all means enjoy the ride.