TRAIL TRIALS

Riding a horse on a trail has always been one big obstacle course! A “Trail Trial” consists of a trail ride with approximately 8-10 judged natural obstacles that appear along a trail of several miles in parks or private property. This is not an arena event!

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Riders are judged on their skill and ability to guide their horses through a natural obstacle course during a trail ride. Each ride consist of obstacles and situations people might encounter on a trail ride. A course is designed using the natural obstacles that already exist on a particular trail such as walking over logs, opening a gate, or maneuvering through a creek. While riding you may also encounter obstacles such as birthday parties, family BBQ’s, volleyball games and mountain bikes…these are considered “natural” obstacles depending on your location.

 

Riders are judged individually and strictly on how well they negotiate their horse through an obstacle with an emphasis on calmness and safety. Points are given based on this criteria.

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The program is open to all breeds, as well as all riding disciplines. 

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This is not a timed event, but casual in nature.  Riders may ride as individuals or groups…so family participation is encouraged as family or friends may ride together.

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We have Novice, Intermediate and Advance Divisions with Junior, Adult and Senior Categories. There are also Companion and Schooling Divisions to just check it out. 

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Region 4 has our own points based Year End Program with an annual awards ceremony  in the fall. Membership to CSHA is required plus membership to the Region 4 Trail Trials year end program.

 

You can compete at the regional level or plan to attend the State Championship Event (SCE). SCE is held in late September in different locations each year in the Northern, Central or Southern area.