June 4th, 2026
Summer Trail Riding Essentials
There’s nothing quite like hitting the trails on a warm summer day with your horse. Whether you're exploring a favorite local park or hauling out to a new destination, a little preparation can make the difference between a relaxing ride and a stressful one.
After logging thousands of trail miles with my horse Gwen, I've learned a few essentials that I never leave home without. Here are some of my favorite summer trail riding tips and must-have items.
Trail riding is one of the best ways to build a stronger partnership with your horse while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. With a little preparation and the right equipment, you'll be ready to make the most of every summer adventure.
Keep the Bugs Away
Summer bugs can quickly turn an enjoyable ride into an irritating experience for both horse and rider.
Three items I consider trail-riding essentials are:
- Cashel Quiet Ride Fly Mask - Offers complete visibility and keeps head tossing to a minimum
- Fly Whisk - Very handy for "bombers" landing on your horses back
- Fly Spray - Change brands often for maximum protection. My personal favorites are Ultrashield and Pyrhana.
Hydration Matters
Just like people, horses lose important electrolytes through sweat during hot weather.
One of my favorite products is TechMix Equine BlueLite Pellets. This daily supplement provides electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals that support hydration and overall health. Gwen has been on BlueLite for years, and I've been extremely pleased with the results.
For longer rides or particularly hot days, I also like to keep electrolyte paste on hand as an additional hydration support option.
Always Bring Water
Never assume water will be available at your destination.
I always haul with extra water in the trailer, even when riding at locations that typically have water access. Having a backup supply ensures your horse stays hydrated no matter what surprises the day may bring.
First Aid Essentials
Self adhesive bandages, quilts, standing wraps, Wound Care items, general first aid products - Very important to keep in the trailer in case of an injury on the trail.
Pack Backup Equipment
If you've trailered out to ride long enough, you've probably experienced that sinking feeling when you realize you've forgotten something important.
Trust me—I have been there! I once had to ride bareback because I left my girth back at home!
I recommend keeping spare equipment in your trailer at all times, including:
- Saddle pad
- Girth
- Halter
- Lead rope
- Stirrup Leathers
Having backup gear can save a ride and eliminate unnecessary stress.
ALWAYS check your gear thoroughly before going off on any adventure!
Thoughts on Horse Boots
Depending on the length and duration of your ride - horse boots can build up too much heat on your horse's legs. Also - it's easy for trail debris to get caught inside a boot and cause a nasty rub. I generally don't use boots when I ride - however I do recommend bell boots for shod horses. It's very easy to grab a front shoe or clip the back of a heel with a hind foot when scaling ravines. Italian Pull on Bell Boots are my preferred style - very hard to lose and no rubbing. This particular brand is fairly easy to pull on and they stay put.
Trailer Essentials
A few inexpensive items can make your day much easier and help you be a good steward of the trails.
I always keep the following in my trailer:
- Water buckets
- Muck bucket
- Broom
- Pitchfork
- Lightweight hose
- Pocket Knife
Many trailheads offer water spigots, making a lightweight hose incredibly useful for rinsing your horse off after a hot ride.
And don't forget trail etiquette—always clean up after your horse and leave parking areas cleaner than you found them.
Ride with an Experienced Trail Horse
If your horse is new to trail riding, consider riding with a seasoned trail companion.
Experienced trail horses often provide confidence and reassurance to less experienced horses. Their calm demeanor can help reduce anxiety, encourage relaxation, and create a much more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
SOLO Riding
Many times I tackle the trails alone, but when doing so, I am always sure to give a friend the exact location I will be riding, the direction I will be heading and the estimated duration of the ride. That way - if anything was to happen - someone knows where you will be. You can share location services through an app on your phone as an added safety measure. Keeping your phone ON YOU (not attached to the saddle) and fully charged is very important. Depending on how the long the ride will be - I often bring a portable charger to ensure I don't run out of battery power.
Enjoy the Journey
Trail riding is one of the best ways to build a stronger partnership with your horse while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. With a little preparation and the right equipment, you'll be ready to make the most of every summer adventure.
Happy trails, and I hope to see you out on the trail this season!
Download Rose's Printable Trail Riding Checklist HERE!
By Rose Staeck
