Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare for a week-long trail ride?

1. Make sure your horse has the aptitude. Does your horse mingle well with other horses? Can it remain calm in a group or standing tethered quietly to a trailer or fence for the night? Does your horse always want to race? Does it kick? These tendencies can be a problem on the trail and in camp. If the answer is yes to any of these questions, think again or begin to break your horse in on short day rides.
2. Make sure your tack fits properly. Nothing is worse than to have your horse harmed by ill-fitting tack.
3. After a days ride, your horse will appreciate being covered with a light to medium weight blanket for the night. This will help to avoid stiff and sore muscles.
4. Prior to the trip make sure that your horse gets familiar with drinking from streams and pools of water. Electrolytes added to the horse's water or feed can help keep it hydrated. Many endurance riders use electrolytes religiously on strenuous rides.
5. Some rides require specific feed be used. If this is the case, begin a few weeks before the ride getting your horse use to the new feed.
6. Check your horse's feet. Talk to your farrier about your plans. If needed, have him come out a couple of weeks prior to the ride to make any adjustments.
7. Be sure your saddle will be comfortable for three or four hours straight on the trail before a break. Perhaps you'll need to purchase a saddle designed for this type of riding.
8. Make sure your vet gives you the go-ahead. Some rides require you to present a Health Certificate prior to the ride.
9. Prepare your horse physically. Be sure your horse can be ridden all day, every day for the entire week. This may not be an endurance ride, but if your horse isn't used to the rigors of trail riding, i.e., up and down hills, through streams, rocks, etc., you will be asking for trouble. It won't be fun if you have to wait for the group on the way back because your horse couldn't make it for the entire ride. Worse, you don't want your horse to get hurt.
10. Don't forget personal items that you'll need to make the trip a pleasant one for you:
• Comfortable folding chair
• Means for washing yourself
• Personal hygiene items
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellant
• Comfortable riding clothes and gloves
• Flashlight
• Any medicine or vitamins you take regularly
• Handy water containers
• Rain gear
• Good riding boots you can walk in
• Be sure that your truck and trailer are in good shape before leaving home.

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