Horseback Riding FAQs

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Comfortable pants with a flat seam to the inside of the leg is best. Wrangler jeans or riding pants are encouraged. Shorts and Capri's are not permitted. Bringing a long sleeve shirt is recommended for protection from the sun, insects and scrapes. For women, sports bras are recommended. For men, close fitting briefs are recommended . Shoes should be sturdy and have some type of a heel, such as riding boots or hiking boots. Sandals or open toed shoes are not permitted and tennis shoes are discouraged.

IS THERE A WEIGHT LIMIT?
Yes. 240 lbs is the maximum allowable weight and any items you bring with you will be counted. We ask for your weight, height and skill level on the reservation form in order to match you properly for your experience.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?
Yes. The minimum age is 12 years of age for our backcountry trips. For normal riding (less than a full day) the minimum age is 6 years old.

IS THERE A HEIGHT REQUIREMENT?
Yes. The saddles will only accommodate those over 4 feet tall.

WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR MY RIDE?
At least 15 minutes before your scheduled experience to allow time to sign waiver(s) and fit you to a saddle.

SHOULD I WEAR A HELMET?
Wearing a riding helmet is optional, however you will be required to sign a waiver of refusal. We will provide you with a helmet if you do not bring one.

WHAT IS A RIDING WAIVER?
You must sign a riding waiver prior to an experience with the Equine Escape horses. The waiver states that there are inherent risks riding horses and participating in any equine activities. By reading and signing this document you are stating that you understand and agree to the risks. You will also be asked to fill out a general health/fitness form. All forms will be filed and kept confidential.

MAY I BRING A CAMERA?
Absolutely! We encourage picture taking. We suggest that you use a disposable or other inexpensive camera to prevent damage to an expensive one. If you still wish to bring a digital camera, use a well padded camera bag and possibly a zip-lock bag to protect from rain/moisture in the event of unexpected precipitation. Cell phones rarely get reception in this terrain. If you do bring one, use the same protection as for the camera.

WHAT IS TRAIL ETIQUETTE?
Simply, just using common sense and being courteous to your fellow rider(s) and guide. Don't allow your horse to follow too closely to another horse. Leave one horse length between you and another horse. (or else you're just asking for a kick) Don't litter. No smoking on any trails. Comply with any trail signs. No riding double. No riding bareback. No screaming, yelling or other loud noises. No smacking , yanking or hitting the horses. If your guide has dismounted for any reason please wait for your guide to remount before moving off or continuing. Tell your guide if there is a need to stop, such as for a bathroom break, for yourself or the horse.

WHAT SKILL LEVEL SHOULD I POSSESS?
You should be familiar with horses and their ability to make sudden moves. You should have basic riding skills. Riding experience is required for our backcountry trips and you will be asked and must execute basic riding skills. Basic riding lessons are available prior to your experience, however you MUST arrange for this prior to reserving. The following skills must be demonstrated prior to leaving the ranch.

1. You must show how to turn, stop, and backup a horse.
2. How to mount and dismount.
3. How to hold and lead a horse from the ground.
4. Show proper foot, arm, leg position, and posture while riding.
5. How to cue a horse to move forward.
6. Emergency stopping techniques.
7. Rein position.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
You can bring almost anything that will fit in a saddle bag. Extra water, food, cameras, hand-held videos, and ID books are just a few of the items that would fit. Aspirin or Ibuprofen is recommended before and after your ride as it will help with inflammation. Water is often carried in the front off the horn, or in the case of hornless saddles, just in front of the rider. Other items mentioned are listed on the top of this page. Saddle bags can accommodate approximately 8lbs on each side. This will be added to your weight, so don't go over the limit.

WHAT TYPE OF HEALTH CONDITIONS WOULD PREVENT ME FROM RIDING? Some back, hip and knee problems may be aggravated from horse back riding. It is strongly recommended that you check with your doctor to determine if this activity could worsen your condition. Upon arrival at Equine Escapes, you will be required to sign a health waiver submitting that you are capable, health wise to perform this activity and have been cleared by your physician for any conditions in question. Expecting mothers are prohibited from our riding experience.

SAFETY POLICY
As mentioned above, there is no smoking allowed on the premises nor on the trail. We try to match horse and rider to the skill level. You will have some one on one bonding time with your horse prior to any riding experience for the day. From the ground, you will learn your horse's personality, likes and dislikes as well as begin building a relationship built on trust. Ensure you notify your guide or the Equine Escapes staff immediately if you have any questions, concerns or problems on the ground or in the saddle. And remember....horses will magnify and reflect the energy that you bring them. If you are relaxed, confident and calm, they will sense that immediately and reflect that energy back to you. The same is true for someone who is angry, scared, unsure or unhappy. Please be aware of the energy you are bringing to your horse and pay close attention to the feedback they are giving you. They are incredible, magnificent mirrors of ourselves!