Lucky 13
A Horsemen's Guide to Trail Ethics
By Lora Goerlich
The duty of maintaining access to bridle trails on public lands is not just in the hands of policymakers or land managers; it begins with equestrians themselves. Equestrians must take consistent measures to keep bridle trails accessible and sustainable for future generations. Ignoring the issues or, even worse, engaging in destructive behavior will ultimately jeopardize equestrian access to public lands.
Internal Layers
When I initially recognized the difficulties that trail riders have encountered over the years, along with solutions for preserving trails, I felt a surge of excitement. I believed equestrians were eager to find ways to protect these valuable assests. After all, they seem to be engaged in ongoing struggles over trail preservation with other trail users and public land managers. However, the reality was quite surprising. I soon discovered the actions of many riders do not align with the goals of trail preservation, and information specifically aimed at helping riders preserve trails is rarely shared.
Another intriguing phenomenon is the rapid and sometimes vicious manner which some equestrians address non-equestrian trail users (both in person and on social media) for not following etiquette or regulations. But where is the social media outcry and demand for accountability when fellow equestrians violate enforceable rules and etiquette, such as riding with off-leash dogs, consuming alcohol while riding, trampling off trails for excitement, or navigating around muddy areas, thus harming the habitats along the trails?
There is a layer of confusion in the belief that volunteering is the sole way to support trails. While it is impactful and relied upon in some areas, volunteering represents just a small portion of the positive contributions that keep trails accessible. Depending solely on volunteers does not ensure the accessibility of horse trails for equestrians. Unfortunately, not everyone can volunteer, but ALL trail riders on public land CAN adhere to the thirteen principles of equestrian trail ethics.
