Unstable Footing
Situation: Loose-shale footing in mountainous areas.
Avoid it: It takes a steady, seasoned rider and horse to navigate this kind of terrain, so don't attempt it if you're a novice on a green horse. If your horse is quiet and familiar with the terrain, you shouldn't run into problems. On most well-traveled trails, the footing should be fairly secure, so up your safety odds by staying on the designated trail.
Beware: Some mountainous trails have steep areas with loose rock that can be tricky to cross.
Worst-case scenario: When you encounter loose footing, stay out of your horse's way. He might have to scramble up or down the path, but help him stay calm and encourage him to walk steadily. If your horse is emotional and runs through touchy situations, check and release him to keep him under control, but then let him have his head for balance. Don't get off and attempt to lead him down a trail with loose footing, as you could be injured if he loses his balance and slides into you.
PLAN AHEAD
Whether your ride will be around your own back 40 or out in a wilderness area, proper preparation sets you up for a successful, safe adventure.
- Choose one map to follow before venturing out, to ensure that the entire group is on the same page.
- If possible, call ahead to be sure that the trail is in good condition and to ask about any potential trouble spots along the way.
- Decide as a group what's expected of the riders and their horses. Point out which horses are dominant, which are speedy or slow walkers, which may be mares in heat, and which may tend to kick. Also, discuss each rider's skill level so the more advanced ones can look out for the novices.
- Designate an experienced rider with a seasoned horse as the group's leader. This person should know the trail well and be confident that he or she can handle myriad situations.
- Charge the rider with the most first-aid knowledge with carrying the first-aid kit.
- Choose a form of emergency communication. If cell phones won't work in the area you plan to ride, you'll have to rely on two-way radios to contact emergency help.
The editors thank Team Horse & Rider's Julie Goodnight (juliegoodnight.com) for contributing advice and expertise to this article. This article originally appeared in the July 2010 issue of Horse & Rider.
