This page gives general information on Trail rides..
- GO TO the CALENDAR page http://www.ncbch.org/calendar to see scheduled rides and to SIGN UP.
- To get to "sign-up" link: go to the calendar, click on the ride name and a box will pop up. From that box, scroll down to "read more", click on it, look for 'signup' link, and click on 'signup'.
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- Also read about Trail Maintenance to be added soon.
Trail riding guidelines:
We follow the guideline of only 12 heartbeats together on a trail to minimize impact on the trail. Twelve heartbeats equals six (6) riders and their horses. If we have more than six (6) riders, we will split into another group of six (6).
All riders pay attention to trail descriptions and suggestions about the need for horseshoes.
Prior to the day of ride, riders obtain documents as needed (Coggins, health certificate if out of state).
Members respect other riders by conditioning their horses so they are ready for the distance and/or terrain. Also respect other riders by honestly evaluating their own riding ability and the horse's condition/ability before attending a ride.
During a ride, we all understand about unexpected tack issues or injuries, however, we expect prior planning by all so we have an enjoyable ride.
All riders bring their own water and/or food and first aid supplies.
A TRAIL BOSS is
- The contact person for the ride and checks the information listed on the website calendar: lists trail
- difficulty; appropriate gear and food needed.
- Communicates clearly with all riders about the trail difficulty, ride length, pace.
- Follows the LNT principles.
- Follows the 12 heartbeat guideline.
- Monitors the pace of each horse and rider and adjusts the speed as needed.
- Knows places along the trail for watering the horses, grazing horses, lunch break.
- If the ride meets at 10 am, be prompt.