Silliness from the trail

Trail riding seems like a simple enough concept. However, the likelihood of finding someone who likes to trail ride the same way that you do is hit-or-miss. To some, a “trail ride” is anything that involves riding outside of a riding ring. To others, a “trail” is flat, groomed, and wide enough to drive a jeep down it. Those who profess themselves full-time “trail riders” generally prefer smaller trails with varied terrain and obstacles to keep it interesting.

One of the most common complaints seems to be that of non-gaited and gaited horses riding together. Honestly, this is more of a difference in riding speed preference than a gaited/nongaited issue. Riders of either type can ride at speeds that are entirely too fast or entirely too slow for others on similar equines. In order for any trail ride with a group to be a success, there must be an understanding of where/how the trail ride will take place. That way, everyone comes prepared knowing what sort of riding is in store. However, sometimes even this does not stop all problems.

Some riders are simply unprepared. This can range from not having the horse conditioned properly for the terrain and length of trail, to not having the proper training on the horse. The unprepared rider can either be accommodating – pushing through like a trooper: listening to advice and getting their horse through it with help – or they can be downright frustrating: whining, complaining and generally making everyone else miserable.

You can also run into people with very interesting ideas of how you are supposed to ride. I have heard riders complain about getting dust/dirt/mud/water on their boots/jeans/ tack. I have heard unceasing too fast/too slow complaints. People get upset when you pass or when you stay behind them. Some people do not think it is okay for anyone to move at a different speed than they are. Some pitch a fit if you get closer than 3 horse lengths to their horse (how would you carry on a conversation?) I have heard that gaited horses scare non-gaited horses. (Huh?) I have heard that the reason a horse kicked was that it was a mare (after they ran their horse into the back of said mare at a fairly good clip.) I even had to endure a complaint from a veteran rider who said they were stopped on a hill… (small grade – really should not have been a problem.)

Some people like to stop a lot for rest breaks, and some people get mad if you have to stop – whatever the reason. (Even a missing Chicago screw – who can predict that one? Heck – you don’t need a bridle to ride.)

Anyone heard any other silliness?