Fall is hands-down the best season for horseback trail riding. The bugs are fewer, the air is crisp, and the views? Unbeatable. Whether you’re cantering beneath golden aspens or trotting through a tunnel of scarlet maples, autumn offers a sensory-rich ride unlike any other time of year. And with the rise of equestrian tourism and destination trail riding (especially in national forests and leaf-heavy regions), more riders are headed out to leaf peep than ever before.
But a beautiful ride doesn’t just happen—it takes solid prep for both you and your horse. From route planning to layering for the weather, fall riding requires a bit more gear and a lot more attention to the environment. Here’s your expert-approved guide to doing it right.
1. Know When—and Where—to Ride
Peak foliage season varies by region, but timing it right can turn a good ride into a jaw-dropping one. Use real-time foliage maps (like the Fall Foliage Prediction Map on SmokyMountains.com) to pinpoint where and when colors will be best. In general, higher elevations change first—so think September for the Rockies and October for the Appalachians.
Great fall riding spots include:
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH
- Ozark Highlands Trail, AR
- Green Mountain National Forest, VT
- Cherokee National Forest, TN
If you’re riding public lands, be sure to check local hunting season dates and wear hi-vis gear. Apps like onX Hunt can help you plan routes, track open areas, and avoid conflict. Always have a backup plan in case weather rolls in.
2. Prep Your Horse for Unfamiliar Terrain
Even seasoned trail horses can get jittery when the wind picks up and leaves start rustling. Now’s the time to desensitize at home. Ride near crunchy leaves, tarp-like sounds, and blustery conditions so your horse learns to settle. If you’re heading into higher elevations, condition your horse with more hill work in advance and keep rides shorter the first few days.
Shoeing matters in fall, especially with slick leaves and rain-slick roots. Hoof boots with good tread can add grip for barefoot horses, while rim pads can help shod horses on varied terrain. Don’t forget electrolytes—horses may not sweat as obviously in cooler temps, but hydration still matters.
Pro tip: Always bring a portable water source if natural ones are drying up. Trails can dry out in the fall, and relying on creeks can backfire.
3. Dress for the Forecast—and the Unexpected
Fall rides can start at 35°F and hit 70°F by lunch. Layering is essential. A good base layer should wick sweat, while a fleece or down midlayer provides warmth without bulk. Bringing a lightweight, waterproof shell is smart too. Pack gloves, an extra pair of dry socks, and a bandana or buff for unexpected wind.
Fall riding gear is trending toward smart layering and technical outerwear, with insulated vests and weather-resistant jackets from Ariat, Kerrits, and Horseware. For your horse, autumn exercise sheets—sometimes with reflective trim—help maintain warmth while increasing visibility. Additionally, reflective tack, LED attachments, and leg bands are recommended during low-light conditions. Since fall days get short fast, aim to be off-trail well before dusk to reduce risk.
4. Pack Smart and Light, But Never Skimp on Safety
Safety on the trail is about redundancy and readiness. Every ride should include a first-aid kit—for both you and your horse—plus a hoof pick, electrolyte paste, knife or multi-tool, and a fully charged phone (bonus points for a portable charger). Emergency contact info and a map (paper or offline GPS) are non-negotiables.
Keep a basic survival kit in your saddlebag with:
- Foil blanket
- Waterproof matches/lighter
- High-calorie bars
- Water purification tabs
- Whistle
For trending tech, wearable GPS locators like the Garmin inReach Mini are gaining popularity with solo riders and backcountry adventurers. These devices allow for SOS calls even when cell service disappears.
If you’re hauling to a trailhead, do a full pre-trip inspection on your truck and trailer: tire pressure, hitch security, lights, and brakes. Carry a trailer jack and spare, even on short hauls.
5. Don’t Forget to Trail Train You
Great trail riding comes down to more than just scenery—it requires you, the rider, to be physically and mentally prepared. Work on balance, core strength, and trail-specific drills like riding one-handed, opening gates from the saddle, or ground-tying on uneven terrain.
Fall’s shifting light and trail textures can make your horse more reactive. Practice keeping calm, clear cues when they hesitate or spook. Remember, your energy is the lead your horse takes on the trail.
If you’re newer to trail riding, consider attending a fall trail clinic or joining a local riding group. Fall is a popular time for these, with many riders seeking more structured, social experiences after a summer of solo rides.
6. One Quick Word on USRider—Because It Matters
You’re already a USRider member, which means you’re riding smarter than most. But don’t forget just how many fall-specific challenges your membership covers:
- If you break down while hauling to a trail, you’ve got up to 100 miles of free towing—including for your horse trailer.
If your horse throws a shoe, you can call for an emergency farrier referral. - If you’re stranded overnight, USRider can locate emergency stabling or even help you find a vet.
And since your coverage follows you, not just your vehicle, you’re protected no matter what you’re driving or hauling.
Ready to hit the trail? Go enjoy that crisp air, fiery foliage, and quiet paths—but do it prepped, safe, and confident. Happy fall riding!
