If you’re itching to get out of the ring this summer, locating a local, equine-friendly park should be on your summer to-do list. If most of your friends stick close to home or focus on the show ring, you may have to dig a little deeper to find a safe place for your horse to stretch his trail legs.
Simply searching “horseback riding trails” and the state in which you want to ride is one of the easiest ways to find places to ride. Many state-maintained parks offer equestrian trails and have up-to-date websites, as well.
Additionally, some state and city tourism departments will include links to local trails on their websites. Checking with local clubs that host pleasure rides, nearby hunt clubs, and even the state horse council can bear fruitful results. If your area has a Backcountry Horsemen organization, be sure to contact them–these riders can prove invaluable for someone looking for a place to ride.
However, don’t rely solely on the internet for trail-related information. Do some additional digging to make sure the park truly is welcoming to horseback riders (some parks expressly forbid horses on their trails). Word of mouth is also invaluable. Chatting with someone who has been to the park before will help you assess if you and your mount are up to the ride.
So, you’ve chosen where you want to ride, you’ve called to be sure the trails are accessible and that horses are welcomed. What else do you need to know before you saddle up? Here are a few additional things you’ll need to know to make sure you are safe and following the rules:
Do you need to sign in or place some format of ID in your tow vehicle?
Some trailheads provide parking to accommodate horse trailers and offer a general store. Utilize these facilities as they typically have people who are in the know on the latest news regarding trail conditions and equestrian-use restrictions, if there are any.
Whether you plan to head out for a few hours or a few days, a few items are non-negotiable when you hit the trails. They include:
Additional items that are handy to have, especially if you plan on being on the trails for some time, include:
Based in Lexington, Ky., Sarah Coleman has a soft spot for chestnuts with chrome, including her off-the-track Thoroughbred, Chisholm. The pair competes in the hunters.
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