Great question – and YES – there is indeed a protocol for trail riding. Check with your guide if you are unclear or need more info, but here’s your “cheat sheet”:
- Never overtake another horse without calling out and asking permission
- Leave at least the length of one horse between you and the horse in front of you
- When riding around fields, always stay to the edge
- Never hold your horse back so you can trot/canter to catch up with the group (among other things that will get you excused from the trip – no refund allowed).
- Never pass the front guide
- If the guide shares information, pass it back
- Call out loudly if you need help or to slow down/stop
- When riding in an arena, pass left to left (just like driving) (generally)
- If someone or something is out of control, follow the lead of the guide, or if safe, stop your horse and stand quietly until the matter is resolved
- Watch the guide for hand signals to indicate slowing of the pace
- When in doubt – call/speak out – it’s better for all riders to know what you need/are doing than to not know