RIDING MULTI-USE TRAILS TIPS AND RULES TO RIDE BY
PREPARE YOUR HORSE FOR THE TRAIL Good trail etiquette is possible only if your horse is prepared for the trail and what you might encounter there. If he is terrified of motorized vehicles, stick to trails that exclude them until you safely desensitize him to the sights and sounds associated with dirt bikes and other like vehicles. MAKE SAFETY YOUR PRIORITY Horses have the right of way on the public trails. When encountering hikers or bicyclists, slow from a trot to a walk and offer a “hello.” Many respond in kind, on a single-track trail move your horse off to the side and position him to face the oncoming pedestrians so he is not startled from behind. KEEP YOUR CELL PHONE IN YOUR POCKET Cell phones and earbuds seem to be proliferating on the trails, like everywhere else, so good etiquette dictates that you try to be more aware of your horse and your surroundings because others might not be paying attention. BECOME AN AMBASSADOR FOR HORSES It is wise to try to educate the uninitiated about sharing the trail with large, reactive herd animals who bolt first and ask questions later. try to be friendly about it but ask other recreational trail users to speak up when approaching a horse, especially when coming up on a blind curve. Let them know that stepping off the trail and going behind bushes or trees makes them appear to be a predator to a horse. Most of all, thank them when they are being courteous, and go out of your way to let them know that, like them, your interest is in enjoying the trail. | TETRA Trail Etiquette/Rules Trail Boss/Ride Leader makes all decisions to ensure safety Dogs are not allowed on the trail and must be leashed/confined while in camp Riding double is not allowedCurrent Coggins requiredStay with the ride and behind the Trail Boss on guided ridesAlcohol and smoking is prohibited on the trailHorses known to kick must have a red ribbon on their tailHelmets are encouraged while mounted, but not required
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