Fall is here and hunting season is upon us. But that doesn’t mean you have to put a stop to your weekend rides!

Each year, the fall and winter months bring thousands of hunters to the same woods and mountains that trail riders frequent. While statistics show that the majority of these hunters practice safe techniques, there are inevitably accidents and keeping a few, simple things in mind when hitting the trail can help keep you safe.

GET VISIBLE

Most states require “hunter orange” to be worn by hikers, hunters, bikers and riders throughout the hunting season but, even if your state doesn’t, it’s a good idea. You can easily find vests, hats and other gear at your local Walmart or on Amazon but, with so many riders hitting the trails these days, there’s gear made specifically for us and our horses.

The more pumpkin-like you can appear the better!

Additionally, adding bells to your saddle or the underside of your girth, can give hunters a heads up that you’re there and not a deer.

RESPECT

Public lands are one of the many things that make this country great and everyone, including hunters, has a right to enjoy them. Being respectful and avoiding a ride during prime times like dawn and dusk can keep you safe while protecting the integrity of their hunt.

STAY THE TRAIL

No matter how much you may want to bushwhack through the backcountry, keeping to the trail during hunting season is a must. In the age of information, hunters know where these trails are and, knowing they’re likely populated with other users, most keep to the more remote areas for their hunt.

By sticking to the trail, you can keep yourself safe and stay out of their way.

DITCH THE DOG

You may have the best trail dog in the world but when hunting season rolls around, leave them at home.

Dogs, like horses, can resemble a variety of animals and could be easily mistaken as a threat by a nearby hunter before they see you.

Additionally, returning to the mutual respect point, if Fido spies a deer and decides to chase it, you may have just ruined that hunter’s next meal.

EDUCATION

Each state has easily accessible information about different hunting seasons and regulations. Having a general knowledge of these can be helpful in planning your next trail ride.  In fact, some states actually restrict the use of certain public lands during hunting seasons, meaning you may need to have a Plan B in place.