• SAFETY FIRST… ALWAYS!
• Horses are fear and flight creatures; when scared, their first tendency is to run. Let your horse see and slowly approach and sniff that “horse eating” plastic bag, banner, whatever…
• Cars should yield to bikers, hikers, horses. Bikers yield to hikers and horses. Hikers yield to horses. Be ready in event that car, biker, or hiker does not yield.
• Stay to the right on the trail. Pass on the left.
• When approaching a horse ahead, announce your presence in a friendly voice to the rider ahead.
• Announce your intention if you are going to pass on the left.
• Never gallop or lope up to a horse from behind; slow to a walk and announce your presence.
• Observe normal trail speed which is a walk.
• Announce your presence to bikers, hikers, and runners; they may have their ear buds in and/or be zoned out, totally oblivious to your presence.
• Do not allow your horse to touch its nose to the rear of a horse ahead; this is an invitation to get kicked.
• If the horse ahead has a red ribbon in its tail, give plenty of room to its side and rear; the ribbon means it is a potential kicker.
• Obey all trail signs and postings.
• Respect private property as you would want others to respect your property.
• Leave gates as you find them.
• Be friendly to other bikers, hikers, riders … you are an equestrian ambassador for good manners.
• Carry your cell phone on you, not attached to the saddle; you don’t want your horse taking off with your cell phone.
• In case of an emergency call 911.
• If your horse is having a really bad day and is about to throw a fit, dismount and lead.
• Know and respect your horse’s limitations.
• Do not litter, due to constant fire danger.
• Do not smoke; it is prohibited in the Bosque because of fire danger.
• Stay on the trail; shortcuts cause erosion.
• Avoid riding when trails are wet, muddy, or icy; proceeding under these conditions could result in accidents as well as potential trail damage.
• If you encounter someone who is angry, argumentative, or upset, do not engage with them; Immediately ride to a safe spot and call 911 if necessary.
• Do enjoy a great day with your horse and others. Enjoy the beauty of the trail and the wildlife.
• Be a true Equestrian Ambassador in the Village of Corrales, Horse Capital of New Mexico.

TIPS FOR TRAILERING

Make sure:

• Trailer tires and brakes are inspected by a professional to determine that they are safe.
• Your hitch safety latch is securely locked and the jack is fully raised.
• Safety chains are in place.
• Lights and turn signals work.
• Tires and spare are properly inflated.
• Door latches work properly.
• External mirrors are adjusted.

Have with you:

• Water for you and your horse.
• First aid kit.
• Horse fly spray, mosquito spray for you, lip balm, sun screen.
• Fork and plastic leaf bag for picking up manure at trailer parking area.
• Hay feeder bag for horse if tied to trailer for very long.
• Brush, comb, hoof pick, and horse treats if desired.

When parking, be sure to:

• Not block any driveway or access way.
• Park in the area where other horse trailers are parked.
• Choose a parking spot where you are least likely to get blocked in or sandwiched by another vehicle so you can easily leave when you want.