Trail Etiquette and Safety Information

Over the years in my infinite attempts at organizing our horse business (can a horse business be organized?), I have amassed several forms, lists, and records to share with our guests and to at least try to keep ourselves in line. I’d like to share this one with you. For anyone who currently rides the trail, it may be just a list of reminders. I personally re-read this and update it yearly. I don’t know how, but I do forget some of these things. For anyone with a horse related business, perhaps some of these points can help you in working with your guests and clients. And for anyone who is interested in trail riding but hasn’t been out there yet, or at least not much, perhaps some of these points will be helpful. In any case, it’s long, but hopefully you’ll find at least a tidbit or two in here that might work for you. I have this printed out on the back side of our Release of Liability form and ask all our guests to read it over. (If anyone out there would like a copy of our Release, please let me know.) I don’t know if they do, but I feel I’m doing the right thing. Many of these points I then cover verbally and through actual physical instruction, which we take the time to do for every rider, every time. Our horses are quite grateful for that time well spent.

Ranch Trail Etiquette and Safety Information, Requirements and Conditions

Riding is a sport, just like tennis or skiing. It is a high adventure activity; not a spectator sport! You are a participant, not a passenger, so when you ride, be riding all the time. Be aware of your horse and what you are doing. Your horse has a mind; it will use it. Learn to guide it safely.

As an animal of flight, the horse is startled by sudden movements, loud noises and unfamiliar objects. Don’t throw things (hats, camera, water bottle, etc.) to or from a horse. Please ask our guide to stop to put a jacket or slicker on; you may need to dismount for this process. If you would like to take pictures, ask our guide to stop.

Don’t let your horse eat or graze on the trail when riding. Just one mouthful leads to many more. A good trail horse knows the difference between having a rider on his back, and having a pack strapped on. Don’t act like a pack. During breaks, eating is permitted. Our horses work hard. During water crossings, allowing the horse to drink is permitted, and often times, encouraged.

Following the instructions of our guide is essential for the safety of each and every rider in the entire group, as well as for the safety and well being of our horses. All participants will be expected to follow the guides instructions from before approaching the horse, until after safely dismounting. Safety is our first concern.

Likewise, don’t pass your guide. There is a reason he or she is guiding, and by your choosing to participate, you agree to accept his or her guidance.

If your horse fails to keep up with others, has tricks you don’t like, or acts lazy, before you blame him, figure out how much you really know about riding. Riding is a lifelong study, and a good rider always looks to himself first.

Keep a safe distance between your horse and the horse in front of you – approximately one full horse length. A horse finds tailgating about as annoying as you do – and horses have been known to kick and bite when annoyed.

A nice pleasant walk is not only suitable, but required for riding here at Lost Trail Ranch. This is due to the high elevation and the difficult nature of our terrain, and is based upon our concern for the safety of our horses, not to mention our riders. If we trot or lope our horses, it is will full consideration of the safety of ALL riders and horses, and with respect to the trail and the terrain.

No smoking is allowed around the barn area or during a trail ride.

Sorry, guests dogs may not join us on the trail ride. Our guides, our horses and our trail dogs are not familiar with them, and leaving your dog “home” is the easiest way to prevent any possible related problems.

These facts, requirements and conditions are written with your safety in mind.

All riders are expected to safely mount, dismount unassisted if need be.
All riders must be able to safely control their horse both on the ground and in the saddle.
A brief riding review/lesson may be provided before each ride. If you feel you need a riding lesson or refresher session before embarking on a trail ride, lessons and instructions may be scheduled accordingly.
A riding evaluation may be necessary to ensure the ability of the rider before leaving the barn/corral area. This is essential not only for the safety and enjoyment of that rider, but for the safety and enjoyment of ALL participants in the ride. Any person(s) unable to safely complete the evaluation may not be allowed to participate at that time. Please be aware of our No Refund Policy as well as our saddling fee/minimum service fee. Lessons may be arranged here at Lost Trail Ranch. Please feel free to speak with us about them. We enjoy the opportunity to help teach our guests to become more knowledgeable, confident, and safe in the saddle.

Please ask questions before leaving if you have any doubt about reining and controlling your horse. And do speak up during the ride if you have any questions. We would like to do all we can to make your trail ride a safe, knowledgeable, and fun experience.

Remember, horses are not machines. They will look to you for guidance and leadership. Be sure you communicate clearly, calmly and well to your horse with your focus, your balance, your positioning, your reining, and your voice.

Remember too that there are hidden dangers on the trail. The rider needs to be alert at all times and in control of his/her horse. As long as you are on a horse, you are riding. Be riding all the time.

With all of this in mind, we sincerely hope you enjoy your ride, and that you have many pleasant memories on horseback!