Trail Riding Safety Tips

TRAIL RIDING SAFETY TIPS

While we’re spending most of our daily life cooped up inside these days, riding on trail is a great way to get out and explore the outdoors. We’re spoiled for choice at Anthony Chabot Equestrian Center, with miles upon miles of trails at our doorstep. As exciting as it is to get out there, you want to make sure that your trail time is as safe as your time in the arena! To do this, it’s important to think about both your behavior and your gear. 

BEHAVIOR

• Make sure you know and practice basic trail etiquette and safety for
  riding, both by yourself and with others.

• Notify someone if you’re going out alone in case of a trail accident.

• Are you and your horse confident opening, closing, and going through
  gates? If not, it’s a great time to practice!

• Do you know how your horse reacts to wildlife, water, dogs, cars, and
  loud children? If your horse startles or spooks at things, it’s important
  to be aware so you can handle situations confidently.

GEAR

• Technology is your friend! Having a cell phone on you while trail riding is a great safety precaution.

• Wear a helmet!

• Is your saddle comfortable for longer distances? You want to make sure neither you or your horse comes back sore!

• Do you know the trails? If not make sure to snap a photo of the map at the barn in case you get turned around.

• It can never hurt to stick a length of bailing twine or some duct tape in your pocket before you head out. It could come in handy if your tack breaks, or save your butt if you get out on trail and realize you should have worn a belt. 😃

• Speaking of pockets, if you want to bring snacks, gear, or water but don’t have pockets, consider purchasing a trail pad with built in pockets or a saddle bag. Saddle bags are made for either the pommel or cantle and attach to the D-rings or safety staples on a saddle.

• If you want to add attachment points to your saddle, most saddle repair shops will add them inexpensively.

NIGHT RIDES

LIGHTS OUT!! Trail isn’t just a great way to have fun in the sun — you can get a whole new experience by riding at night! 

Kheystone does occasional full moon rides and they are always a blast. Meeting at the barn right as it gets dark, enjoying hot cocoa, and watching the moon rise over the hills. Riders decorate their horses with glow-sticks, glow necklaces, and LED lights. While these rides have a definite festive flair, we put an emphasis on safety. Horses can be less confident on trail at night, so you want to make sure you and your horse are familiar with all common trail experiences such as wildlife encounters and gates. It’s also extra important to be aware of where your fellow horses and riders are- when it’s harder to see in the dark, you don’t want to accidentally get too close to another horse. 

Never ridden in the dark before? Try nighttime barn laps or schooling sessions in the upper arena. It’s a great way to get used to lower light riding conditions.

- Anica Odell-Smedley