Trail Riding 101 questions

[JollyBadger]

Some National lands have hotlines you can call with information about the status of the trails. Or, the staff/owners of local horsecamps can suggest trails to take or avoid based on weather and footing conditions.

For example, Shawnee National Forest in southern IL will close sections of trail in the Lusk Creek area if there has been a lot of rainfall, so that can impact your plans for the day (or week). I still have their number on my phone and I haven’t even been there in almost three years.

And, the staff at East Fork Stables in TN will pull out a trail map and show you if there are any trails you might want to stay away from. Generally, most horse-people are happy to share info about the condition of the trails, suggest their favorites and warn you away from others.

My SO’s version of getting trail information is to call the owner of a horsecamp and ask “should I bring my gaited horse or my mule to ride the trails there?”:lol:

[oliverreed]

Holy cow! If I lived in an area where I had to carry bear repellent or a gun with me I don’t think I’d do much trail riding!! You guys are brave!

[wireweiners]

Since I mostly ride alone, I make a point to wear brightly colored clothing like a red or orange T shirt. If I get dumped and I’m injured, I figure that a bright colored shirt will make it easier for rescuers to locate me. Of course during hunting season I always wear blaze orange.

[Mtn_trails]

[QUOTE=lms;6284392]
Thanks so much everyone. This is really helpful to know different items to carry. Do you know the best way to find out about trails in your area or up and down the east coast? Was wondering if you were aware of any information the National Parks Service provides regarding trails at parks.[/QUOTE]

I didn’t read all the responses so don’t if this has been mentioned, but to find trails to ride contact the Backcountry Horsemen of America:

http://www.backcountryhorse.com/index.html

Here’s a list of all the affiliates so maybe one or more will fill your bill:

http://www.backcountryhorse.com/Member_Organizations.html