There once was a time when we as kids would go out on our bikes all day and drivers were cautious, because where there were kids there was most likely a dog or two as well. I also rode my horse everywhere, along with my friends. Drivers would slow down and give us room, being cautious out of courtesy and for safety’s sake.

When I meet people now as I ride, a horse usually brings a smile and a conversation. I have met many lovely people I wouldn’t have met if it weren’t for my four-legged friend. There is something about the spirit of a horse that naturally draws people to them.

We all have things we love to do, whether it’s biking, hiking, cross-country skiing, four-wheeling, or riding. We all can enjoy what we love to do and have fun. You don’t see horses as often now riding on the side of the road. It feels different when it comes to drivers and horses. People seem more distracted as they drive.

I want to help people know the proper way to pass a horse. Horses still have the right of way on roads in New Hampshire. This means that pedestrians, mountain bikers, and all motorized vehicles should yield to horses. 

Slowing down to 15 MPH, no more than 20, is recommended when approaching and passing a horse. Bicyclists should use their voice to let a rider know they’re coming up behind us. 

The horses are usually aware that someone is coming up behind them because, after all, they are animals who would be prey in the wild — they still have a fright and flight instinct. My girl came from a wild herd in Colorado. But just to be safe. it’s good to let us know. 

I usually turn my horse so she can see what’s coming up behind her. I once had a biker come up behind me, while I was riding a horse on the road, and he rang his bell. My horse bucked and tried to bolt. The biker thought that was funny and said, “I wondered what would happen.” 

Please be conscious of the rider. Trying to get to trails is getting harder to do, and we have to travel on the road in order to get to the trails. Happy trails!