Some hunters, hikers and riders mark trails and trail intersections with surveyor's tape as they go along, but it's a practice that spoils the wilderness unless the tape is removed on the way back. "I can see having the tape in your trail kit," says Aadland. "If someone's hurt, you may need it to mark the trail, but when it's used frequently and left all over the place, it's unsightly."
Trail tip: If riding after sunset disorients you, dismount and lead your horse. Rely on natural light, when possible, rather than a flashlight. "It takes about 20 minutes to develop your night vision," says Aadland, "but you lose it in just a second by striking a match or turning on a light. If you must use a light to study a map, close one eye to speed up the return of your night vision."
This article originally appeared in the August 2001 issue of EQUUS magazine.
