Sometimes trail users, including bicyclists, are unsure of the safest behaviors depending on the type of trail user. It is important to note that some rail trails and bike-ped paths allow horses. Bicyclists should be aware of these rules when sharing trails or roads with riders on horseback.
Bicyclists are sometimes silent and can appear quickly. This can startle both horse and rider, so please:
- Bicyclists should always yield to equestrians.
- Whether approaching from behind or front, pass wide and slowly and be prepared to stop.
- When meeting, announce yourself. Say a friendly hello. In a calm voice, ask if it is OK to pass, or look for direction from rider.
- Do not use a bell or horn. Sudden or loud sounds and blinking lights may frighten horses.
- Keep your movements slow and steady while around horses.
- Be aware that some horses may be comfortable around bicyclists and some may not.
Note that equestrians are typically not required to “pick up after” their horses like dog owners are. Reasons for this are that it can be unsafe to expect a horse rider to be able to dismount, secure their horse, remove the droppings, then remount their horse, all in a confined space where there are typically other trail users. It is safer to keep a horse moving, not only for the horse and the rider, but also for other trail users. Horse droppings are primarily grass, decompose quickly, and unlike dog dropping, they are not considered hazardous to humans.
These agencies and organizations also provide similar education and rules on sharing trails with horses:
- New Hampshire State Law NH RSA 265-104 states “Every person having control or charge of a vehicle shall, whenever upon any way and approaching any horse, drive, manage, and control such vehicle in such a manner as to exercise every reasonable precaution to prevent the frightening of such horse, and to insure the safety and protection of any person riding or driving the same.”
- New Hampshire State Parks provides this info on sharing trails with horses.
- NEMBA (New England Mountain Bike Association) also has great info on trail etiquette, including info on how to act around horses. We especially like their “all encounters should be positive” mantra.
We hope this information helps all trail users better understand how to safely share our precious roadways, trails and rail trails. We believe it’s best when all users are educated about what are considered the safest behaviors.
This information has been approved by the New Hampshire Horse Council.
