Trail Riding Etiqette

This page outlines the principles of trail riding etiquette and the responsibility that comes with riding out with a horse. Trail riding takes place in shared spaces. Riders, horses, hikers, cyclists, landowners, wildlife, and local communities all interact within the same environment. Etiquette is not about rules. It is about awareness, restraint, and respect.

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The horse always comes first.
Its physical and mental well‑being has priority over distance, speed, or ambition.

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Responsibility starts with the rider

On the trail, responsibility cannot be delegated. The rider decides:

• pace and distance, when to ride or lead, when to continue, stop or turn back

• A horse does not choose the trail — the rider does.

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Relieving the horse

Responsible trail riding means relieving the horse whenever possible:

• leading instead of riding

• walking steep sections up or down

• adjusting plans to terrain and fatigue

• Trail riding is not about staying in the saddle at all costs.

It is about arriving safely — together.

 

Care, equipment and simplicity

Responsibility includes thoughtful care and functional equipment.

The trail horse is:

• kept in a species‑appropriate way

• well cared for and cooperative

• equipped according to terrain and condition 

Simplicity, comfort and reliability matter more than appearance or tradition.

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Sharing the trail with others

Trail riding happens in shared spaces.

We show respect by:

• greeting pedestrians and passing at a walk

• adapting our position on narrow trails

• behaving calmly and courteously when we face dogs, other horses, or bikers

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Respect for land and people

Trails exist because they are maintained by the forest service and the back country horseman people

• We respect private property, stay on designated trails, close gates, respect hunting seasons, and forestry work

• Farmers and ranchers are partners — not obstacles. We leave no traces.

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Impact and conduct

Responsible riders manage their impact on the trail.

• At Camp, we stay clear of the water by at least 100 feet.

• We remove manure where necessary, and public areas are treated with care.

• Small actions protect long‑term access.

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Decision‑making on the trail

Good decisions are calm and early.  They include changing plans, getting off your horse, and choosing safety over ego. Responsibility is not rigid. It is adaptive.

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Trail riding is defined by:

 

• how we treat our horses

• how we move through nature

• how we interact with others
   

Responsibility is not a limitation. It is what makes trail riding possible.