Equipment Considerations
Check all your tack before leaving on a trail ride. Tack problems in remote areas not only pose safety hazards, they can spoil the day's ride for you and fellow riders. Be sure to carry spare parts such as leather or nylon straps, an all-purpose Leatherman tool or knife, large "zip ties" (plastic pull wraps used mainly by electricians), and a lead rope/halter.
Place a red ribbon in the tail of a known or suspected kicker. That tells riders approaching from behind that your horse may kick or otherwise display dangerous behavior to other horses. You may also place a green ribbon in the tail of a novice or green horse. Though the ribbon alerts riders about your horse's experience, it doesn't relieve you of responsibility to control your horse. Not kicking another horse or rider is your responsibility. Keep your horse busy and focused on your signals and he won't have time to react to the other horses.
Place a yellow ribbon in the tail of stallions, and keep them under control at all times. The danger factor to others increases considerably with stallions on the trail, so be sure your horse has adequate training.
Riding with Common Sense
Most accidents or challenges on the trail can be avoided by using these common sense approaches to good manners and etiquette. Remember to be polite to other riders and your horse while enjoying the countryside. Keep a positive attitude even while things are not going exactly as planned, and you will find that you can enjoy a pleasant ride with a group of fellow horsemen on your perfect horse.
