CAVE CREEK SADDLE CLUB GUIDELINES FOR SAFE TRAIL RIDING

1. Each ride will have a designated trail boss and one or more drag riders. These persons are responsible for everyone's safety and enjoyment on the ride. Stay with the group, behind the leader, and in front of the drag rider(s).

2. Proper equipment should be used on all trail rides for the safety of the horse and rider.

3. Stay on the trail. Do not cut corners. When the trail permits, side by side riding will provide an opportunity for conversation.

4. ANY HORSE WILL KICK. A red ribbon tied to a horse's tail lets others know it is a known kicker. Maintain a safe distance between horses. Stay at least one horse length between your horse and the horse in front, 2 - 3 horse lengths on hills.

5. Do not speed past or up behind another horse, and never pass in dangerous terrain. When necessary to pass the horse in front of you, call out your intentions.

6. Warn others of hazards on the trail. When stopping on the trail, stop clear of other horses and advise the trail boss and other riders why you need to stop. Do not stop on inclines or declines, or in thick cholla, with other horses behind you.

7. NO--dogs, stallions, or alcohol are allowed on club rides.

8. Firearms are permitted ONLY in responsible hands. Use is for trail emergencies only. Any individual deemed irresponsible will be required to leave their firearm behind or not participate in the ride.

9. CCSC rides and activities are a "POLITICS FREE ZONE". Everyone has a right to their own beliefs, but as the old saying goes you don’t discuss "race, religion or politics". Save it for social media, political groups, etc.

10. At the advice of insurance agents, only CCSC club members are allowed on club rides. However, we welcome and encourage guests. A one day trial "club membership" is available for a nominal fee to  accommodate guests and prospective members. Riders will be 16 years of age or older.

11. Rides will be graded on a one to four basis to let the riders be prepared for safer trail riding and to determine if they or their horse is qualified. Each trail boss shall grade the ride and let the secretary know prior to sending out the newsletter.

CAVE CREEK SADDLE CLUB TRAIL RATING GUIDE

LEVEL 1

Easy, short ride, mostly level terrain, few climbs or hills, good footing. Usually follows roads or wide, well defined trails most of the way. 1 - 3 hours long.

LEVEL 2

Generally good footing. Some climbing and downhill, but not steep or difficult. Can go cross country on mostly level ground. 3 - 5 hours including lunch break.

LEVEL 3

Footing may be difficult in places, or rocky. May have steep climbs and down hills, and narrow or precipitous trails. Requires confidence in your horse. 4 - 6 hours including lunch break.

LEVEL 4:

Steep, rocky, may require horses to step up and down large rocks or negotiate narrow trails with steep drop-offs. Requires total confidence in your horse. 5 - 7 hours including lunch break.

SAFETY + TRAIL COURTESY = A GREAT TRAIL RIDE!