As a multi-use park, the Blue Hills Reservation welcomes and encourages equestrians to use the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the reservation. However, practicing proper trail etiquette and safety measures take horseback riding from fun for one to fun for all who travel the trails.
Who has right of way?
While horses do have right of way on the trails, riders should be aware of their surroundings and keep to low gaits, such as the walk and trot, to keep the trail safe for all users. Riders are responsible for making their presence known to others on the trail and should remember that they may happen upon off-leash dogs or children who may want to approach the horse.
What should I do if someone approaches my horse?
If a rider does happens upon a hiker with a dog or a child who wants to approach the horse, the rider should stop and politely ask them to move off the trail so the rider can pass safely.
Do I need to prep my horse before heading into the park?
Riders should be aware of the terrain of the trail and consider whether their horse needs trail boots or studs. Fly spraying horses is also recommended during the warmer months, and riders should keep a snake bite kit on hand as well as basic first aid supplies. If out during hunting season, riders may consider wearing a reflective vest to improve their visibility. Finally, riders should be wearing a helmet, appropriate footwear, and have a cell phone on hand in case of emergency.
Is off-trail riding allowed?
To preserve the trails and natural habitat of the park, riders should refrain from riding during mud season, and must stay on the trail at all times.
Although horses are welcome at many areas of the park, they must keep off the beaches.
Horses must be attended to at all times and may not be tied to trees, bushes, fences, or other structures while in the park.
What does it mean to “leave no trace” when getting ready to leave the park?
When leaving the parking area, riders must ensure that they clean up after themselves and their horses, keeping a “leave no trace” philosophy in mind while at the reservation. This includes hauling out manure from around the trailer and packing out trash. For more about leave no trace principles, visit this US Fish & Wildlife Service webpage.
NEED A RECOMMENDATION FOR A TRAIL TO START ON? Ponkapoag Trail provides wide, flat, carriage-like roads perfect for a first outing. Click here for info from AllTrails on the best horseback riding trails in the park.
