Trail Riding - Keeping it Safe

Summer trail rides are one thing we long for in the depths of the New England winters.  Trail riding is a ton of fun, and knowing the basics of trail safety can keep a ride on the safe and fun side.

First, let someone know where you're going and how long you expect to be gone.  This is especially vital if you're going out on your own.  Hang a dry-erase board in your barn and leave the info there - for example "Amy out on the Water Wheel trail at 3 pm, back by 4:30". That way, your route is readily available to your family and/or fellow boarders, or (let's hope it never comes to this) rescue personnel and EMTs.  And please don't deviate from your planned route - for obvious reasons!

Second, ALWAYS wear your helmet.  Even if it's hot as blue blazes, even if you're just going to ride across the field to the neighbor's or down the drive to pick up the mail, make sure your helmet is on.

It's also handy to have "necessary bags" for you and your horse.  Make sure that your bag is attached to you; there's nothing worse than parting company with your horse seeing your gear and your horse disappearing down the trial.

If you're just going out for a short hack on a familiar trail, your cell phone may be all you need.  However, if you're going long-distance or into unfamiliar territory, you'll need to plan more extensively.  Dress in layers and prepare for weather changes, and your necessary bag should contain the following:

• A quart of water.  If you're going into the back country, a water filtration system would be a good item to carry.
• Your cell phone.
• GPS or map, if your cell doesn't have those features (or if you'll be riding beyond cell service).
• A watch.
• Knife or (even better) a multi-tool.
• A small first-aid kit with electrolytes, bandanges, pain killers and antiseptic ointment.
• Bug spray.
• Sun screen.
• Any medications or allergy remedies you may need, and a list of those meds and medical conditions.
• A whistle.
• Environmentally-friendly toilet paper.
• A shatterproof mirror.
• A length of sturdy string or twine.
• Plastic poncho.
• Emergency reflective blanket.
• Cigarette lighter or waterproof matches.
• Food concentrates / energy bars.

This may sound like a lot of gear, but it all should fit comfortably into a fanny or side pack.

There's some equipment that comes in handy for your horse, too.  A halter-bridle combination can be useful if you want to stop for lunch and allow your horse to graze - yes, you can carry a halter and lead as well, but the combination bridle leaves you with less to carry.  Be sure that your name and phone number are written on or attached to your bridle, halter and saddle in case you two get separated.  One woman I know braids a tag with her name, phone number and email into her horse's mane when she goes on long rides; it's more likely to stay with the horse than the tack.  If you're going to have to venture into areas with traffic, reflective gear is a good idea - helmet covers, leg and tail bands, and reflective sleeves that fit on your tack make you visible to motorists.  And obviously, your horse should be shod appropriately and in good enough physical condition to complete the ride without undue stress.

As for your horse's necessary bag, it can be a cantle of pommel bag, or it can clip to a saddle dee.  It should contain the following:

• Compact first aid kit with bandages and antiseptic ointment (check with your veterinarian if you want a more comprehensive kit, or if your horse has special physical requirements).
• Hoof pick.
• Easy Boot or other shoe replacement.
• If you're going to be bushwhacking or clearing trails, a folding camp saw is a good item to have.
• Duct tape.
• Collapsible water bucket.
• Strong string or twine.
• Electrolytes.
• Snacks / treats.

For more information on trail safety, or if you'd like to explore camping with your horse, there's a ton of good stuff at http://www.ustrailride.org/.