Tips for Trail Riding in the Fall
Fall is right around the corner. For many horse lovers, there’s nothing better than trail riding during the season when the leaves turn beautiful colors, temperatures cool down and insects are gone after nightly frosts. An even bigger perk? Less crowds on the trails after Labor Day.
Even though riders are energized and the weather is right, there are some obstacles you could face while hitting the trails. Here are some things you need to consider to keep you on track.
- Wear sturdy riding gloves in case you need to pick up debris off the trail.
- Carry a sharp knife or trail saw.
- Don’t leave your horse unattended while doing any maintenance on the trail.
- Wear footwear that are safe and comfortable for riding. Keep in mind the fit, safety and style of the shoes that you choose.
- Watch for wildlife. Depending on the part of the country you are in, you could run into bears, elk, moose and other wildlife that lurk around in the cooler months. Some of these animals can be very protective and territorial, to have caution when spotting these animals nearby.
In addition to all of the points above, one of the most important things to consider is your horse. They are in transition after summer. They will be in great physical condition, but will be transitioning to cooler temperatures. Make sure you let their winter coat shine through. Blanketing their winter coat will prevent its growth. Overall, just make sure you keep your horse healthy by minimizing stress and doing regular check-ups.
You don’t always have to ride on a public trail. Owning your own recreational property allows you to ride freely whenever you want. United Country Real Estate specializes in the purchase and sale of recreational properties nationwide. If you’re interested in getting your own trail riding property, contact one of our experts today!
Sources:
http://www.equisearch.com/discoverhorses/article/fall-trail-riding-tips
http://trailridermag.com/article/fall-the-best-trail-riding-season-15730