Hikers, runners, mountain bikers, dirt bikers, four wheelers and horseback riders are crossing paths with increasing frequency. As more people seek respite form urban life in a growing variety of outdoor pursuits, pressure on natural recreation areas continues to increase. In the past, backpackers and horseback riders were alone out there in the woods. But now, you are likely to encounter everything from dirt bikes and mountain bikes to bird-watchers and bow hunters.

Unfortunately, instead of coming together out of common interest and forming strong coalitions to secure and protect even more public lands, user groups all too often have worked to exclude other trail enthusiasts from what they perceive as "their territory." This has the unfortunate effect of both limiting certain groups’ access to public lands, and diluting our potential clout when lobbying decision-makers for more acquisitions and greater access. After all, there is strength in numbers. Public access is always at risk from private property interests. Local and state officials are much more likely to listen to a broad-based, diverse group of citizens united in a common cause than a small band of special interest agitators.

If we can find a way to peacefully coexist on the trails, we can improve the quality and safety of our experience and further goals of keeping trails open and acquiring more in the future. Forming multi-use partnerships is more than just good manners. It’s good politics.

When venturing out on a multi-use trail, respecting off-road rules goes a long way toward promoting peace and harmony on the hoof. Just like in the old days, livestock has the right of way. This is because it is easier for hikers or bicyclists to step out of the way in tight spaces, and horses are more unpredictable than Schwinns. But don’t let this go to your head. If the trail is narrow with a steep drop-off, always pass to the outside of the other party. If your horse should spook, you wouldn’t want to knock a defenseless pedestrian over the edge!

Many multi-use trails have signs indicating, who has the right of way. When approaching on coming equestrians, motorcycles and bikes should pull off the trail if possible, and cut their engines until the horses are well past them. But don’t assume that everyone is going to abide by these rules. It helps to make eye contact with approaching traffic, and put your hand up to remind them to slow down or pull off the trail. If your horse is calm and on good footing, indicate to them that it is safe to pass. As they pass, ask if there are any other riders behind them so you can wait for them to pass, or be on the alert until they are all accounted for.

When approaching a horseback rider from behind, mountain bikers should call out letting the riders know they are coming; motorcycle riders should cut their engines and coast by, if possible. Be aware that may bicyclists are unfamiliar with horses, and may not be comfortable in close proximity to them. When you know your horse is under control, advise them that it is safe to pass. Talk them through any details, like keeping a safe distance from the rear end, or asking motorcycle riders to cut their engines and coast by if necessary. When in doubt, communicate, be friendly and considerate. Don’t assume the guy in the lime green helmet and Lycra shorts knows how to keep his equipment from getting stomped into a pretzel.

Backpackers can present a formidable shape to an unseasoned mount. With big, bright loads looming above their heads and shiny objects dangling from their belts, they frequently elicit snorts of suspicion. The best way around a monster backpacker is to ask them to stand still, and engage them in conversation so your horse can recognize them as some sort of humanoid. Don’t ask them to approach you, as this could cause a particularly sensitive horse to whirl and blot. Instead, let your horse approach at his own pace and investigate to his satisfaction.

But even if everybody plays by the rules, use common sense. If you ride in areas where you are likely to encounter mountain bikes or motorcycles, be sure your horse is comfortable with them before setting out. Or at least go with another rider on a seasoned veteran who can shield your "greenie" from the "hell on wheels." Don’t go looking for a wreck by riding a spooky colt on the motocross track, and then blame the bikers for your broken collarbone.

Despite the right of way, there are times when a judgment call is in order. For instance, if you hear a motorcycle in the distance, it is preferable to find a safe spot off trail, turn toward the sound, and wait for the biker to appear. This will preclude the possibility of an unsuspecting driver bursting around a blind curve and startling your horse. Even though you have the right of way, you need to ride defensively to avoid mishaps.

Sometimes, just plan decency dictates the right move. If a mountain biker is laboring up a steep hill and you have room to let him pass, it is courteous to step aside so that he doesn’t have to lose all momentum. Likewise, if you can see that he is having trouble braking coming down a steep decent, consider yielding if your horse is calm around two-wheelers. The bike rider will appreciate you waving him on his way.

If trails are clearly posted as being off limits to equestrians, respect this. Nobody expects to come around the bend and confront four-legged traffic on bikes-only trails. Just as horseback riders can expect to be free of bikes and motorcycles in national wilderness areas, which exclude all types of mechanized transportation. These folks have the right to hotdog to their heart’s content in horse-free zones. You may want to work with park managers or fellow user groups to gain access to these areas over time, but taking matters into your own hands is not the way to accomplish it.

We must not forget other equestrians we meet on the trail. As fellow riders we should set an example of courteous trail comportment. Unless you are in the heat of competition, never blow by another rider with speed – this is the ultimate trail taboo. Your lack of consideration could cause the other horse to bolt, buck or rear, resulting in serious injury for the rider. If you are riding at a faster pace, slow down as you approach and ask permission to pass. It is OK to pick up a slow trot, but keep an eye on how the other horse is reacting.

When encountering a horse drinking at a creek or trough, stop and wait until he is finished before moving on. Staying hydrated is one of the biggest challenges for horses on long trail rides, and most horses will stop drinking if they are distracted. Getting passed over by one of his own kind is a sure way to take his mind off tanking up.

And while you may want to think twice about taking a confirmed kicker out on a public trail, the universal signal for this vice is a red ribbon in the tail. But that bit of yarn doesn’t absolve you of all responsibility. Keep your cranky beast away from others as much as possible, and reprimand him sharply at the first sign of getting light-footed. The goal is to have a well-mannered trail horse, not to build a force field around him.

Unlike some of the more arcane social customs, proper trail etiquette is based on common sense and safety. When in doubt, do what feels like the most prudent alternative. Learning and observing these simple rules will make you an ambassador of responsible trail users for the entire equestrian community and promote happy trails for everyone.

By Sara Christie. From Horse Illustrated, May, 2000