“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing
that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously.”
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
National Trails Day
Celebrate with Gratitude
By Lora Goerlich
National Trails Day is an occasion for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds to celebrate and preserve the beauty of our nation's trails. Observing this day can vary greatly among different user groups, each bringing their own unique perspective and contributions to the table. Among these groups, equestrian trail riders stand out for their historical and ongoing commitment to trail advocacy.
​ There have been many challenges over the years for equestrian trail riders. They have repeatedly found themselves at the forefront of battles to preserve existing trails and opportunities to create new bridle trails are rare. Due to changes in land use policies, pressure to include other user groups and disinformation about horses in natural areas, equestrians have experienced significant loss of trail that began in the 1970’s. Despite these setbacks, equestrian trail riders have demonstrated an enduring and unwavering dedication to safeguarding inclusion and are known for their substantial contributions through volunteering and funding. These efforts not only benefit the equestrian community but also enhance overall trail experiences. By working collaboratively with land managers and other stakeholders, trail riders in many regions have played a vital role in maintaining trail accessibility.
Often overlooked are the rare advocates within public agencies who possess a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by equestrians. Their steady and knowledgeable presence can be instrumental in preventing changes that could adversely affect bridle trail users. They can actively engage in policy discussions, offer valuable insights during planning phases, participate in labor intensive trail maintenance, oversee volunteers, and often serve as a liaison between the equestrian community and public agencies. Their efforts can help safeguard the interests of horse riders by advocating for trail designs that accommodate horses and riders safely, making certain that trails remain open, are well-maintained, and any potential conflicts with other trail users are mitigated.
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"Observing National Trails Day alongside equestrian trail riders is a tribute to their resilient spirit."
1. Recognize the riders who contribute to and promote trail ethics - the ones who choose to abstain from riding when conditions are unfavorable; the ones who stay on designated trails; the ones who ride sober… the ones who follow the rules.
Following established park rules and sustainable trail use practices contribute significantly to keeping trails open, setting excellent examples for non-equestrians and fellow trail riders.
2. Recognize volunteers. Many advocacy groups are forty to fifty years strong with committed volunteers who have been supportive for just as long. Volunteers may act alone, or they may be affiliated with an organized club/group. Volunteers may opt to work strictly within their organization's hierarchy, or they may not have an affiliation and venture out alone to labor on the trails - every role is meaningful.
3. Appreciate and protect current inclusion opportunities because this means someone inside the public agency is supporting equestrian use.
4. Celebrate bridle trails where volunteerism is optional. This allows riders more free time to ride and enjoy the trails! Afterall, don’t equestrians have enough time invested in horse and farm upkeep responsibilities?
5. Show gratitude toward agency advocates. Their role is often misunderstood and harshly criticized by both the equestrian community and colleagues.
6. Celebrate parks (and staff) who prioritize horse trail maintenance and safety - both help create positive trail experiences and sustainable trail use.
7. Celebrate fortitude. The average age of equestrian trail riders exceeds fifty, and navigating these golden years comes with its own set of challenges. These may include balancing work and family life, facing financial difficulties, dealing with health concerns that lead to physical limitations, or simply feeling fatigued after years of caring for horses. Take the time to celebrate all the accomplishments and milestones achieved throughout the years.
8. Honor the enduring trail mounts. Without them, trail riding experiences would not be possible. Take good care of them and develop a legacy plan to ensure their well-being until end of life.