Horse Riding Rules, Etiquette and
Safety Tips
As many of you know, we in MTRA are getting to be almost
zealots on this Trail Etiquette thing because we feel it
is becoming more and more important for us horsemen to
watch out for the conduct of our fellow riders and to guard
against any actions which would jeopardize our riding privileges.
There is an increasingly competitive demand for these spaces
and other users are becoming more vocal about how us "stock" users
are the ones to exclude from these recreational areas first.
For more information, check out www.lnt.org or
1-800-332-4100 or Leave No Trace, PO Box 997, Boulder,
CO 80306.
To Prevent Erosion and to Preserve Your Natural
Resources and Your Trails
• Always stay on marked horse trails
• Call ahead for trail conditions and specific rules of those trails
• Avoid riding during muddy season
• Please use switchbacks and do not make shortcuts
• At stream crossings, ford only at designated area
• Do not trespass on surrounding personal property
To Keep Minnesota Trail Areas, Clean, Beautiful
• Saddle or Harness animals away from trees; If it is necessary to take
short breaks such as lunch, you may tie your horses to trees but do not allow
them to chew on the trees
• Do not cut living trees
• Pack out all litter from trail and camp areas
• Clean up your camp area before leaving; either spread manure and hay
or pile in designated area
For Safety
• When meeting hikers or bicyclists, you should rein in, reduce gait to
walk and allow room to pass
• Recognize that some people are unfamiliar with or afraid of horses
• Be careful with campfires. Clear an area round fire ring.
• Routinely check your horse for ticks, consider using a tick repellent
• Water your horse only at free-flowing water sources, thus avoiding stagnant
water
• Avoid riding on roads
• If your horse kicks, tie a red ribbon in it's tail
• If you have an unruly horse which you cannot control at all times, please
do not bring that animal on a public ride where you may be jeopardizing the safety
of others.
For an Enjoyable Trip
• Domestic pets (dogs) must be leased at all times
• Carry Drinking Water while riding
Horse Tie Rules
• Tie up your horses at one of the picket lines if a picket line is available.
There are now enough pickets for almost everyone for all but the busiest weekends.
• If you put up a portable electric corral, make it as large as possible,
without bothering your neighbor camper, so as to minimize the trampling affect
on the grass. Keep away from trees.
• If you tie your horses to your trailer, pick a parking spot where the
last person parked so as to minimize the number of trampled down spots.
Clean up your manure and hay before you leave. Manure
bunkers are located in all areas of the campground and
wheel barrows are available for your use. No trash in the
manure bunkers - take that to the dumpsters.
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