Trai Leases -- Do these exist?

[theblondejumper]

Hi!

So I’ve left hunter/jumper land and it’s been about six months. I don’t miss it.

In that time I’ve been on two trail rides and ho-ly cow was I reminded why my inner child loved them – they are so fun! Loved every second.

I’ve been interested in a lease but haven’t really found anything that caters to people who JUST want to trail ride. The one that I did also had the stipulation that you are in their lesson program. And more than I want to spend.

So just curious – do formal ‘trail’ leases exist? Or should I just weasel the fact that I only want to trail ride (with occasional hops in the ring) into conversation with a possible horse? Or does anyone know if trail riding groups have horses one can rent?

I’m happy to just go on trail rides with our local outfitter but I’d also love to go with a club or just on my own on a more regular basis.

Thanks for any input! Loving this forum. So calm!

[alto]

I don’t know where you are, but trail leases are definitely available in my area

Look for local groups/clubs & that should give you some contacts, also travel to any regional shows.

[UlysMom]

Where are you located? In my neck of the woods, there are a lot of horses available for just trail lease. Though, TBH, I’m not sure how many are actually really good trail horses that people don’t have time to ride, vs horses people can’t afford anymore and are looking to supplement their ownership of backyard horses that aren’t trained in any specific discipline.

The good horses are typically available word of mouth. I know some of my riding buddies will lease out their horses due to being slammed at work, or growing families. But they don’t lease out to strangers, unless recommended through respected friends. I think you may need to network in your area to find what you’re looking for

[independentlyawesome]

There are many advertised for trail lease in my area, but they’re often just rejects from other sports. Aka, owners who think a trail horse is any untalented, slightly lame horse who can limp around for a few miles.

It’s much harder to find a nice trail horse - word of mouth is definitely best!

[theblondejumper]

Thanks everyone! I’m in the Texas Hill Country – gorgeous for trail rides!

We have a state-wide trail group and I should get in touch with them.

Thanks for the replies.

[BK6756]

You might also want to join some of the trail riding facebook groups in your area. I’m in Texas and I’ve seen people post leases for trail riding horses on facebook groups (although as others have said I’m not sure if they were just unskilled backyard type horses).

[theblondejumper]

BK, didn’t think of that one, thanks!