Multi Use Trail Considerations
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Multi Use Trails – A Last Resort

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“Trail Series I & II (below) are after the fact concepts culminating from years of unresolved trail conflict that has negatively affected equestrians. Multi use trails should always be a last resort, and IF paring uses is unavoidable, agencies have a fundamental obligation to proactively protect equestrian trail riders since they are the most at risk. The most common and dangerous conflicts occur between equestrian trail riders and wheeled users who do not follow proper right of way; another dangerous conflict occurs between equestrians and unleashed dogs. Creating and maintaining equestrian trail exclusivity is justifiable.  Non-equestrian out number horseback riders by 

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When designating trails, it is important to consider that hikers, cyclists, equestrian trail riders and off-road sports all have different trail use expectations; their experiences, and the way they use public land are not the same. The best foundation for equestrians is to have access to exclusive trails or trails that are paired with compatible uses (hiking). Agencies must commit to prioritizing ongoing education, including enforcement for all users about safe trail use protocol and park rules, especially where there are horse trails. Keeping trail users safe and reducing liability requires more than posting trail signs, then expecting everyone to “just get along.”

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"Multiuse Trail Consideration Model created in 2019.”

(Sharing is permitted in an unedited, original form with all contexts and credit intact)

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