While the number of equestrians that use the Ridge to Rivers trail system is quite small relative to other users, there are still some important things to remember if you are saddling up in the foothills.
Please help preserve the integrity of our trails by riding only when conditions are firm and dry.
- Horse hooves create deep “pock” marks in new or wet trails, making for an uncomfortable experience for mountain bikers and trail runners.
Ride only on designated Ridge to Rivers trails.
- Riding cross country can lead to vegetation loss and eventual erosion.
What can you expect?
- Inexperienced trail users. While all trail users yield to horses, many users are intimidated by large horses, or they just don’t know what to do.
What is your responsibility?
- Manage your animals. Don’t school green horses on high-traffic or shared-use trails. Familiarize horses with expected trail encounters (cyclists, dogs, backpack-wearing hikers, etc.).
Negotiate safe passes.
- Greet users early. Hikers and bikers yield to horses, but many novice trail-users are intimidated by horses or don’t know what to do.
- Guide trail users to move downhill of the trail.
- Continue communication until the pass is complete.
- Expect the unexpected. Small children, animals and the elderly can be unpredictable or easily frightened by horses.