Many public trails we ride with our horses are multi-use trails, which are shared with hikers and bikers.  We want to make certain ALL users of the trails enjoy a positive and safe experience.

Trail Yield Rules: Bikers and hikers yield to horses. Bikers yield to hikers.

1. Thank bikers and hikers for yielding the trail.
2. Ride on the right.
3. Walk past other trail users in single file.
4. If someone appears suddenly on the trail, politely ask them to call out so the horse realizes it is a human.
5. Trail rules may vary concerning manure removal. Honor the rules where you are riding. If you are riding a trail primarily used by hikers and bikers, kicking manure to the side of the trail demonstrates good trail stewardship.
6. If other trail users move to the high side of the trail, ask them to move to the lower side, explaining that horses perceive animals above them as predators.

You know best how your horse will react in different situations. Take appropriate action to keep all encounters safe. 

Tips for Hikers and Bikers:

1. Bikers should look up occasionally while riding because they might be approaching horses that may not hear them.
2. Speaking to the rider as you approach lets the horse know that you are a human and not a predator.
3. Bikers should dismount and get off the trail on the lower side to allow the rider to pass.
4. Hikers should step off of the trail on the lower side to allow the rider to pass.
5. Both hikers and bikers should not stare directly at the horse as it nears or passes — it is perceived by the horse as a threat. Predators stare before they attack.
6. Do not touch the horse unless invited to do so by the rider.

All trail users should have a safe and enjoyable experience out on the trail.  Please share this information with riders, hikers and bikers.

Happy Trails!