Trail riding can be fun and exhilarating, but can turn dangerous if you aren't prepared. The wilderness, although beautiful, it a tough place. It is always better to be ready for anything than be stuck in a bad situation. Here are the top 10 essential items to have while you are on a trail ride. 

1. Have a riding buddy:

I know us horse people are very independent, but having someone ride along can save your life. Having someone with you can be more fun and also safer. In the event that a rider is injured, the other person can assist and take the right steps to safety. 

2. Helmet:

Although not everyone rides with a helmet, it is recommended while riding in the mountains. There are so many obstacles and terrain that can cause major damage if your body is not protected. If you come off of the horse, there is a risk of hitting your head on rocks, trees, or other various objects that can seriously injure you. 

3. Navigation:

Nowadays, we are quick to rely on our cell phone for navigation. However, if you are up in the Mountains with no cell service or if your phone dies while on the trail, you need a backup plan. Carrying a map, GPS, compass, and extra batteries is always a good idea. Pre-mapping your route is helpful as well and identifying land marks can make a huge difference. 

4. Water:

Water is a huge one. People cannot survive without water for very long, so it is always wise to bring plenty of water with you while on the trails. Someone even said they bring a portable purifier with them, in case they need water out of a stream. Packing snacks is a good idea too, but water is essential.

5. Extra Clothing: 

You can never bring too many layers in my opinion. We all know how quick Colorado's weather can change, so always bring a jacket! Another good idea is to bring a poncho or rain slicker. A rainstorm can happen suddenly up in the mountains, so staying dry is super important. You should also pack a pair or two of gloves to keep your hands warm. Temperatures can drop or rise very quickly, so it is important to keep dry or cool when needed. 

6. First Aid:

First Aid for the horse and rider is also a big essential! We all know how easily horses can hurt themselves, now add a rough terrain and wildlife to the mix. Making sure you have items to care for your horse or yourself in an accident can be the difference between life or death. Anything can happen in the blink of an eye, so it is always better to be prepared. Bug spray, bandages, sunscreen, wound care, or anything you can think and fit in your pack should be packed! 

7.  Tools:

Tools can be a great thing to bring along with you while trail riding. One of the most important ones is a knife. Shoelaces or bailing twine can be a great quick fix for tack malfunctions and a screw drive can come in handy too. 

8. Light Source:

Again, our cell phones do usually have flashlights on them, but if your phone dies what would you do? Brining a flashlight with you is always a good idea, along with extra batteries. If you have one, a head lamp would be helpful also. 

9. Fire Source:

If you are planning on camping overnight or you would end up getting stuck up in the mountains, you will need to start a fire. Water proof matches are the answer! They are small, easy to carry along, and can provide you warmth and light in a bad situation. 

10. Notify:

If you are planning on going for a trail ride, it is always smart to notify a friend or family member on where you will be. This way, if something goes wrong, they have an idea on where to send help to. 

One thing to remember is always carry your most essential items on your person. Saddle bags do come in handy, but if you are separated from your horse, the items won't do any good in the bags. 

Safety is key when it comes to any horse activity. Trail riding is meant to be fun, but always be prepared. It is better to have something and not need it, than to need something and not have it. When you hit the trails this summer or fall, remember your essentials and remember to have fun!