Trail Rides: Horseback Riding in Austin, TX
If you love horses and are looking for some fun things to do in Austin, trail rides are a great choice. They're one of the many fun Texas activities that get you out of the house and allow you a chance to explore the area more!
However, there's a lot more to trail rides than simply renting a horse and going for a ride. There's etiquette, riding tips, and more that you should know about to make it a fun adventure.
So, if you're thinking of going horseback riding and exploring the many trails of Texas, this guide is for you. Let's take a look at everything you should know about trail riding!
What is Trail Riding?
Before we take a deep dive into trail riding, let's take a second to define what trail riding is. That way, you'll have. abetter idea of what to expect when planning a trail ride for yourself or with a group or partner.
In simple terms, trail riding is simply going horseback riding on a defined trail. These trails could be fire roads, cattle tracks, or just a simple dirt path. The trails vary depending on the location and what type of adventure you're looking for.
One thing to note, however, is that trail rides do not take place on public roads. While there might be points at which you have to cross or ride along a public road as part of the trail, the majority of the time you'll be off-roading.
People can go trail riding on their own, in a group, or with a partner. This means that you can make the adventure as individualized as you'd like, planning anything from a romantic date night in Austin to a large group bachelorette party activity.
Why Should I Go Trail Riding?
There are so many different reasons why people go trail riding. And, since horseback riding offers a number of benefits, it's a great activity for you to choose. Here are a few benefits of trail riding to convenience you to saddle up your horse!
Boost Your Mental Health
Did you know that studies have shown that when people interact with horses, they can reduce unwanted symptoms of mental health disorders? Equine-Assisted Therapy, or EAT therapy, is a type of mental health treatment that's used to assist people who struggle with dementia, depression, ADD, anxiety, autism, and a variety of other conditions.
If you have any one of these mental health conditions, getting out on the trails could be highly beneficial to your health. You might be able to find relief from your symptoms without having to take medications.
Reduce Stress
Horseback riding is a great way to get rid of stress, relax, and unwind. This. is partly because when you're out on the trail, you're not focused on the stressors of life.
On top of that, horseback riding is a form of exercise. When you exercise, your body releases serotonin, helping to boost your mood and reduce stress.
Exercise Your Brain
We know that we need to work out our muscles to look and feel our best. However, it's just as important to work out your brain. Doing so helps you maintain brain function and stay healthy.
When horse-riding, your mind works hard to develop problem-solving skills and to work together with your rose. This involves many different areas of the brain and helps you to keep your brain health at its finest.
Improve Your Core Strength
When you go horseback riding, you have to use your abdominals, lower back, and hips to help stabilize yourself on the animal. Doing so for a long period of time helps you to improve your core strength.
Having a strong core is important for improving posture, reducing back pain, and improving sports performance. Talk about a major benefit of horseback riding!
Boost Balance and Coordination
Staying balanced on your horse requires a lot of practice. So does coordinating your horse to move in the desired direction.
Since you're practicing both these skills while out and about with your equine companion, you start to form healthy habits. These are both essential for boosting brain health and improving your physical body.
Get Toned
Did you know that horseback riding works just about every muscle in the body? When you get on the back of your horse, you're working your legs, arms, core, and chest.
Because you're working so many different parts of your body while riding, you're able to really tone up and start getting that bikini body. That makes horse riding a great option for more reasons than one!
Improve Circulation
Just like any other type of exercise that you participate in when you go horseback riding. you can improve your circulation. Since your body moves in time with the horse, it stretches your muscles and promotes healthy circulation through your body.
Plus, when you have healthier circulation, you'll start to see benefits in other areas of the body, too. Your muscles will start to become more flexible and you'll enjoy an improved range of motion.
A Few Pro Trail Riding Tips
Now that you know why trail riding is such a great activity to get involved with, it's time to take a look at a few trail riding tips. This way, you'll be able to ride down the trail easily!
Ride a Horse You Trust
When going on a trail ride, you're heading out into an area where things are unpredictable. Bad weather might hit or you might run into branches in the road. With so many variables on the trail, you need to make sure you're riding a horse you trust.
Select a horse that is level-headed and knows your commands. Make sure to choose a horse that you're familiar with or that you feel comfortable riding. If you're renting a horse, the stable should be able to tell you more about the horse's personality to help you out.
Don't Tailgate
Another important rule of trail riding is to be careful not to tailgate. Many riders make the mistake of trying to follow too closely behind other horses.
The issue is, horses value their personal space. When you ride too close to other horses you can cause them to get nervous, especially if they don't know each other well.
Ride a Leader
Some horses are naturally more nervous than others. And, while it's fine to have a nervous horse on some riding occasions, a trail ride is not one of them.
When there's a nervous horse in the group on a trail ride, they can cause other horses to feel nervous. This can throw off the whole group and make it tough for you to stay safe and on the trail.
Bring Extra Equipment
Like we said before, you never know what's going to happen when you go trail riding. And, sometimes that means that you're stuck far from home and need additional gear, such as a backup girth or set of reins.
To make sure that you're trail riding adventure is a success, it's important to always bring backup equipment with you. That way, you're prepared in case anything breaks while out and about.
Safety First
One of the most important rules of trail riding is to make sure that you stay safe. This means wearing your helmet at all times and bringing first aid supplies with you.
Even though it's likely that nothing will happen, it still pays to have your gear on hand. That way, you're fully prepared in case things go awry.
Bring Your Camera
Getting out on the trail is a great chance for you to snap some riding photos that will last a lifetime. When you head out on your trail ride, don't forget to bring your camera with you so that you can get some great shots!
Trail Riding Etiquette
When we think about having good manners, most of us aren't thinking about;t being out on. ahorseback riding trail. However, trail etiquette is important for keeping you and those around you safe while you're on a trail ride.
For the most part, you should follow the three C's:
Courtesy
Communication
Common Sense
However, there are some additional steps you can take to make sure you're being polite and safe on the trail. Let's take a look at what proper trail etiquette looks like.
Horses Have the Right of Way
If you're on a trail ride, it's important to know that horses have the right of way on the trail. That means that if you notice hikers or bikers on the trail, they should yield to you. However, it's good to be aware of your surroundings in case someone forgoes this rule for some reason.
Control Your Animal
Going trail riding is a responsibility. When you're out on the trail, you're responsible for the behavior of your horse. That means that it's best to bring experienced horses on trail rides so that you can more easily manage them.
Choose Your Trail Wisely
It can be tempting to choose rugged trails with gorgeous vistas, but when you select your trail you need to think carefully about what animal you're bringing with you. Horses need to build strength and stamina to complete harder trails, so you'll want to match the trail to your animal's fitness level.
Check Your Tack & Horse
When riding on a trail, you should be constantly monitoring your tack and your horse's vitals. This helps you make sure that everything is working correctly and keeps you and your horse safe on the trail.
Use the Buddy System
For the most part, you should bring a buddy when you go trail riding. While it's fine to go trail riding alone if you're experienced, you should always let someone know where you're going and how long you plan to be away that way, they'll be able to alert authorities in case of an emergency.
Follow the Map
When you go trail riding, it's important to know where you're going. Make sure that you always bring a map, a compass, and a cell phone. This way, you can stay safe and make sure you're on the right path if you get lost.
Use Identification
Before hitting the trail, make sure to attach proper identification to your horse's gear. Plus, tie a red ribbon onto your horse's tail to warn others that your horse is known to kick. This helps communicate who you are and what your horse is like to people that are sharing the trail.
Respect Private Property
If you're going trail riding, you should always stick to the trail. If you have to ride across farmland or other private property, make sure that you get permission to do so before heading out on your ride.
Stay Sober and Smoke-Free
Alcohol should not be mixed with riding. Don't bring alcohol or ride drunk as this can put you and others in danger. On top of that, while you shouldn't smoke while on the trail if you do have to smoke make sure to dismount to do so and to fully extinguish your cigarette when you're done.
Keep Your Eyes Peeled
While it's great to chat with your friends while you're riding on the trail, make sure that you're also paying attention to your horse and to your surroundings. You need to be watching the trail and staying vigilant at all times. that way, no one gets left behind and no one gets hurt.
Respect Others on the Trail
Remember, you're not the only person on the trail. When you run into other people on the trail, take the time to stop, smile, and be friendly. And, make room so that everyone can safely enjoy the trail the way they deserve.
Think About Your Pace
Even if you're a very experienced rider, you need to make sure to think about your pace. You should always ride at the pace of the least experienced rider and get unanimous consent before you increase the group's speed. Plus, make sure to let your horse rest after trotting so that he doesn't get too tired.
Stay Safe on the Road
Riding a horse on the road can be extremely dangerous. If you have to ride on the road, make sure to stay as far off to the right side of the road as possible. And, only cross the road when everyone in your group can safely cross at once.
Give Your Horse Enough Water
You should always bring water for yourself and for your horse when heading on a trail ride. Additionally, let your horse get a drink if you come to any water crossings. Wait for the rest of your group's horses to finish drinking before you begin riding again.
Wait for Other Riders
Part of good trail riding etiquette means waiting for the rest of your group when out and about. Wait for slower riders or for group members who are struggling with bridges or water crossings.
Communicate With Fellow Riders
If you plan to plan to overtake another rider, you should let them know ahead of time. Then pass them on the left side. This helps keep everyone safe and in line as you ride.
Leave No Trace
Just like hiking, when you go trail riding you should be packing out everything you bring with you. On top of that, you can pick up any litter that you see along the trail. That helps keep the area clean and tidy so that you and others can continue to enjoy it.
Let Your Horse Cool Down
At the end of a trail ride, it's important to allow your horse time to cool down. This helps prevent lactic acid from building up in his muscles and causing him pain or harm.
Where Can I Go Trail Riding in Texas?
There are so many different places that you can go horseback riding in Texas. Let's take a look at a couple of different trail riding options you can enjoy in Texas.
Victoria Chevel Estate
One great place you can go riding is on a Texas estate. Estate properties are a great place to ride because they have places for your horse to rest or to grab a drink.
One great option is the Victoria Chevel estate, located just 15 minutes away from the center of Austin! On this 100 acre estate, you can take your horse for a ride. in the gorgeous green pastures and through creeks and ponds.
On top of that, the estate is rich in history. The area even features a graveyard with some stones that date all the way back to the 1700s! You can check out Davy Crockett's relatives and take in the stunning scenery when you ride past this area.
Better yet, estate rides are appropriate for just about any age rider. Even if you're getting on horseback for the first time, you can enjoy a stroll around an estate. And, you'll have guides to make sure your trail ride is a good experience.
Big Ranch State Park
Another fun place to saddle up and get out on the trail is Big Ranch State Park. This stunning state park looks out on desert canyons that will take your breath away.
When riding through Big Ranch State Park, you might even find some fossils. There are lots of sites here where people have been known to collect prehistoric prints sealed in rocks.
You can also expect to see a good amount of wildlife when out on the trail in this park. Both mountain lions and black bears roam the mountains here, so keep your eyes peeled!
Entrance fees to the park are very low, too, making it an affordable place for you to take your horse and get outdoors. At just 5ive dollars for a day, you'll be able to enjoy the entire day out on the trail in this state park.
McKinney Falls State Park
If you love the water, heading out on a trail ride at McKinney Falls State Park is a great choice. This gorgeous state park centers around beautiful waterfalls.
If you're planning to go trail riding here, make sure that you're fairly experienced. The trails get a bit bumpy and you'll need to navigate several water crossings.
McKinney Falls is another affordable trail ride option. The entrance fee to the park is just $6 for a day. That means you can bring the whole family and spend the afternoon exploring the many trails on horseback without breaking the bank!
Treat Yourself to Texas Trail Rides
Trail rides are an amazing way to get outdoors in Texas and to start having some fun in the sun. Plus, they make for the perfect way for animal lovers to get some exercise while enjoying time with animal pals.
If you're interested in hitting the trails and enjoying some horse riding, it's time to plan the perfect trail ride. Doing so will give you a chance to explore Texas in a unique way.
At Southern Trails, we'll help you plan the perfect trail ride, whether it's alone or in a group. Call today to make a booking and let's get you out on the trail and riding along to your heart's content.