Just as in other areas of life, when riding (especially over someone else’s farm) manners count! That being said, it is important to understand just how important farm riding etiquette really is; it is not simply about being nice and courteous, it is also a safety issue. When you exercise a bit of caution, you can have an enjoyable experience that will keep everyone happy and out of harm's way.

Basic Visitor Etiquette

Before you head out to ride at someone else’s farm, you should educate yourself on a few etiquette basics. Below are some helpful tips to make your visit a success.

Always observe farm rules: Many farms, stables, arenas, or other riding facilities will actually post their rules for others to review before riding. You should always check with the farm before you begin and make sure you understand and adhere to all set guidelines.

Make sure your horse is properly prepared for the ride: Horses should always be fully tacked with proper saddles, bits, bridles, etc., and riders should be equipped with helmets, whips, and other riding gear before you enter the farm. You do not want to be asking to borrow items or having to leave and come back once you arrive.

Be mindful of other rider’s equipment: If you absolutely have to borrow an item for your ride, always ask permission first, and make sure you return all borrowed items promptly following your ride. Check the item to make sure it is in the same condition in which your received it, and clean it if necessary before returning.

Announce your entrance and exit: When it is time to leave the stable or barn area, make sure you announce yourself as to not harm or startle others. If you are opening a door, proclaim "Door!" and then check for others coming from all directions before heading out. Always walk your horse out to the riding area and make final adjustments at this time.

Mount the horse safely: If the farm has a designated mounting area, use it! If it does not, mount your horse in a safe location, out of other rider’s way, and away from riding paths.

Farm Riding Etiquette Basics

Good manners should not stop once you have gotten yourself and your horse ready for the ride. It is more important to follow basic farm riding etiquette rules once you have set out on your ride.

Practice good communication: Always communicate your plans with the other riders who are in close proximity. Simple directions such as, "passing on your left" or "coming up on the outside" inform others where you are headed and drastically reduce the risk of accidents.

Ride with others in a similar pattern: If it is possible, you should always ride in the same pattern, or in the same areas as other riders. Follow the same directions, and inform others if you plan to change direction.

Maintain safe following distances: Just as when you are in your car, you need to maintain safe following distances from other riders. A good rule of thumb is to watch for the rear hocks of the horse that is directly in front of you. If you cannot see them, you are following too closely. Simply slow your horse down to allow for more space.

Maintain control and cue privately: Always make sure you have complete control of your horse. If you use verbal or noise signals to work your horse (such as clicks, whistles, or specific commands), make sure you do so as quietly as possible. You do not want to cue or startle other nearby horses.

Post Ride Etiquette

Put away any equipment used: If you borrowed any tack, if you used jumps, or if you borrowed any riding gear, make sure you put it away, and make sure it is in the same condition it was in when you received it.

Always clean up after you and your horse: If you have tracked any mud into the barn or stall area, or if your horse has left any "deposits", make sure you clean up before you leave. No one likes having to clean up after someone else, and making a habit out of this is a sure fire way to not get invited back again.

Turn off your cell phone: Cell phones should be taken on a ride to have in case of an emergency, but they should not be used to chat while on the ride. There is nothing more annoying, and more dangerous, than dealing with a rider that stops mid-ride to answer a call.

Horseback riding is a great activity that can be wonderful fun when done with others. Taking a bit of time to practice proper etiquette will ensure a safe, enjoyable ride for everyone involved, and will keep the riding invitations to other’s farms coming!