Prioritizing Safety on Mixed Use Trails • Stopping is More Effective Than Yielding

“The management of public lands, especially trails, is a complex issue that involves balancing the interests and safety of various user groups, including hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and others. When exclusive trails for each activity aren’t possible, the public agency in charge has additional (and ongoing) obligations when equestrians are included.

Today’s prevailing etiquette on shared trails emphasizes yielding to horses and riders. However, the term “yield” is subject to individual interpretation; it does not universally mean stop. This alone will cause conflict and confusion. When non-equestrians only slow down there is still serious risk especially if additional triggers are present, such as non-equestrian loaded with pack gear; hikers with dogs on or off leash; walkers pushing strollers; fast moving cyclists and trail runners; or motorized vehicles. Adding to the confusion are non-standard signs that pair yield and stop directives and/or safety signs that are difficult to understand and too wordy. Merely putting up signs – or worse, no signs, then hoping trail users will “just get along” is not a viable solution.

 

When horses are present, the most effective directive is for non-equestrians to come to a complete stop. “Stop” directives eliminate ambiguity and are the best choice on mixed-use trails, significantly reducing the chances of injuries to the horse, rider, and other trail users. Along with stopping, verbal communication with the rider is imperative - this allows the rider to guide the remaining interaction based on their understanding of their horse’s behavior (what this means is... if a horse rider knows their horse typically does not react negatively in the presence of bikes, etc. they have an opportunity to allow other trail user(s) to pass). 

 

In areas where park agencies create and maintain shared use trails it is the agency's responsibility to:

1. Create firm and uncomplicated signage

2. Maintain a hands-on presence in the field, especially in known conflict areas

3. Provide ongoing educational and enforcement campaigns

4. Establish enforceable rules to protect vulnerable trail users (equestrians) ©”