WMRC Sponsored Trail Ride

Wheelock, VT

FREE to paid members only

Trail Ride Health, Safety & Participation Requirements

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all riders, participants must meet the following requirements:

Trail Ride Registration, Liability Waiver & Participant Agreement (see below)

All participants must complete the Trail Ride Registration, Liability Waiver and Participant Agreement prior to unloading horses at the trail head. 

Health Requirements

All horses must have current proof of a negative Coggins test (required for horses traveling across state lines) and a current rabies vaccination. Documentation must be provided prior to participation.

Helmet Policy

Riders under the age of 18 are required to wear an ASTM/SEI-approved helmet at all times while mounted. Helmet use is strongly recommended for all riders, regardless of age.

Understanding the Risks

Participation in equine activities involves inherent risks. These may include, but are not limited to:

• The unpredictable nature and behavior of horses
• Reactions to sounds, movement, wildlife, or environmental changes
• Uneven terrain such as mud, rocks, or natural obstacles
• Weather and visibility conditions
• Falls, collisions, or loss of control

By participating, riders acknowledge and accept these risks. The host has suggested that participants consider front shoes or boots if your horse is sensitive to terrain.

This is a ride at your own risk activity. By choosing to participate, you voluntarily assume all risks, both known and unknown. Participants agree to release and hold harmless the White Mountain Riding Club, its officers, members, volunteers, ride leaders, landowners, and affiliates from any liability for injury, death, or property damage, to the fullest extent permitted by law.

State Law Notice
New Hampshire law (RSA 21:34-a) and Vermont law (12 V.S.A. § 1039) both state that participants assume the inherent risks associated with equine activities, and equine activity sponsors are not liable for resulting injury or death.

Group Ride Rules & Safety

To maintain a safe group environment, all riders agree to:

• Follow all instructions from ride leaders and staff
• Maintain safe spacing (at least one horse length)
• Not pass other riders unless directed
• Ride at the designated gait and speed
• Keep their horse under control at all times
• Inform staff of any horse with kicking, biting, or unsafe behavior
• Stay on designated trails
• Avoid reckless riding, racing, or unsafe conduct
• Refrain from alcohol or drug use during the event
• Leave dogs and pets at home
• Ride only mounted horses (no ponying or leading horses)

Failure to follow these rules may result in removal from the ride and restriction from future WMRC events.

Horse & Equipment Responsibility

Participants are responsible for ensuring:

• Their horse is safe, sound, and appropriate for trail riding
• All tack and equipment are in safe condition and properly fitted

Emergency Medical Authorization

Participants authorize the White Mountain Riding Club to obtain emergency medical care if needed and accept responsibility for any associated costs.

Media Release

By participating, riders grant permission for the White Mountain Riding Club to use photos or videos taken during the event for promotional, advertising, or educational purposes, including social media and website use, without compensation.