Trail Safety & Etiquette
Complete guidelines for safe, responsible, and prepared trail riding
Sharing Our Trails
Our trails are shared spaces enjoyed by equestrians, hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. Following proper trail etiquette ensures a safe and pleasant experience for everyone while helping preserve trail access for future generations.
Right of Way
- •Horses have the right of way on multi-use trails. Hikers and cyclists should yield to equestrians.
- •When encountering other trail users, communicate clearly and give advance notice of your approach.
- •Hikers and bikers should step off the trail on the downhill side and remain still until horses pass.
Group Riding
- •Ride single file on narrow trails and when encountering other users.
- •Maintain a safe distance between horses (at least one horse length).
- •Keep the pace of the slowest rider and stay together as a group.
- •Use a red ribbon on the tail of horses that kick.
Trail Courtesy
- •Stay on designated trails to prevent erosion and protect vegetation.
- •Pack out what you pack in, including manure from trailer parking areas.
- •Avoid riding on muddy trails to prevent damage.
- •Respect private property and posted trail closures.
- •Keep your horse under control at all times.
Safety Tips
- •Always wear an approved riding helmet.
- •Carry a cell phone for emergencies.
- •Let someone know your riding plans and expected return time.
- •Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
- •Bring water for both you and your horse.
Emergency Preparedness
- •Know your location: Be aware of trail markers, mile markers, or GPS coordinates to relay to emergency services.
- •Emergency contacts: Program local emergency services (911), veterinarian, and trail patrol numbers into your phone.
- •Ride with a buddy: Never ride alone on unfamiliar or remote trails.
- •ICE information: Carry identification and "In Case of Emergency" contact information on your person.
- •Weather awareness: Be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate. Lightning is especially dangerous on exposed trails.
Trail First Aid Essentials
For Riders:
- •Adhesive bandages, gauze pads, and medical tape
- •Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- •Elastic bandage wrap for sprains
- •Pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen)
- •Emergency whistle
For Horses:
- •Hoof pick and small knife
- •Duct tape for emergency hoof wrapping
- •Wire cutters (if trails have barbed wire fencing)
- •Electrolytes and extra water
- •Halter and lead rope (in addition to bridle)
Trail Safety & First Aid Manual
Experience our comprehensive 24-page manual as an interactive flipbook with realistic page-turning. Covers trail safety protocols, emergency procedures, and essential first aid for riders and horses.
Thank You!
By following these guidelines, you help ensure that our trails remain open and accessible to all users. Your courteous behavior reflects positively on all equestrians and helps preserve our riding privileges for years to come.