If you're currently planning your first trail ride, get ready to enjoy an adventure that’s nothing like the pony rides you experienced as a child. Trail riding requires using quality horse tack for comfort and safety and understanding all applicable rules and regulations. Here's a quick course in horse trail riding to help you prepare. 

Trail Riding Rules

Each park or wilderness area has its own trail riding regulations, but there are a few universal rules applicable to most outdoor spaces that allow horseback activities. These include no off-trail and cross-country riding, as riders must stay on marked trails at all times to avoid injuring fragile vegetation, disturbing wildlife, and risking physical harm on dangerous terrain. 

Also, any animals besides horses and pack animals aren't allowed on the trails. You must also be present when your horses are grazing, and they can't feed in leased hayfields.

It's also important to understand right-of-way regulations. Generally, horseback riders have the right of way over hikers, who must wait in safe locations while you and other riders navigate narrow sections of trail or creek crossings. Personal watercraft users such as kayakers and canoers have the right of way, meaning you must wait for them to pass before you continue. 

How to Prepare 

In addition to reviewing your wilderness area’s specific regulations, prepare for trail riding by inspecting the condition of your tack per taking off. You’ll want a comfortable saddle, a blanket that prevents the saddle from rubbing the horse’s skin, reins, a harness, and other products that keep everything in place, including latigos and cinches. Also, consider purchasing a hay bag for streamlined feeding and a rope for tying the animal to a tree or fence during breaks. You'll find a wide variety of products at Gregg Farm Services Gassville branch.

Buy anti-tick and fly spray. Apply it to the horse before your ride to help both of you stay comfortable and safe. Bring plenty of water — especially if you’re riding under the midday sun in late spring, summer, or early fall — to stay hydrated and energized. To avoid sunburns, wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, and cover all exposed skin with sunblock. 

Pay attention at all times during the ride to avoid surprises, such as steep terrain. Lean forward when ascending and lean back when descending, and hold the back of the saddle during particularly steep descents to stay on the horse. Finally, always ride with at least one other person for safety and security purposes. 

Purchase horse tack and feed at Gregg Farm Services to enjoy many beautiful trail rides. The feed store has proudly served Baxter County, AR, since 1975, offering a wide variety of products and supplies to area residents. Call (870) 481-5165 with questions, or learn about the horse tack department online. Get the latest store updates and community news on Facebook.