Common Sense

Please use common sense while on horseback to ensure the safety of yourself, your horse and other horses and riders.

Do not ride a stallion on the Preserve.
Try to avoid bringing a horse that is known to kick at other horses. If your horse kicks, put a red ribbon or yarn on its tail to warn others that your horse will kick.
When riding up on another group, slow down and alert the group to your presence. If you wish to pass, please let the group ahead know so that they can offer you a safe place to pass.
Do not tie your horse to a tree by the reins. Bring a halter and lead rope and carry it with you for this purpose. The Preserve does provide highlines in a couple of location for you to use. We would prefer you not tie horses if possible to protect the trees. And, if you do tie your horse, do so securely. A tied horse that broke its reins in 2004 was lost on the Preserve for three weeks before it was found.
Do not move timber or conduct trail work while on the Preserve unless directed by Trust staff.
Beware of prairie dog holes! Extensive prairie dog colonies are found in both El Cajete and Redondo Meadows. Walk carefully along the marked trails in these areas. Expect to find active burrows along this section of trail.
Try to leave as light an impact as possible on the land - carefully cross streams, do not leave any trash, and practice good sanitation.
Be sure your horse is in good condition to ride 12 miles at an elevation of 8,200-8,600-feet. Take care not to push your horse too hard.
Be sure your horse is accustomed to traveling by trailer and trail riding before you come to the Preserve. Try short trips close to home so your horse is relaxed and happy about seeing new scenery. Not all horses relish a change. Be sure your horse can handle it. Bring the right horse for the task.
Plan your trip to the Preserve. See our rules and checklist to help get organized. Don't forget to bring all your tack!
Only certified assistance dogs are allowed on the Preserve. To protect wildlife, no other pets are allowed.
All riders must accept risk and liability for this activity.

Please note, according to the New Mexico Equine Liability Act:
There are inherent risks to participants and observers involved in all activities with equine animals due to the propensity of an equine animal to kick, bite, shy, buck, stumble, bolt, rear, trample, be unpredictable or collide with other animals, objects or persons. Warning: New Mexico state law provides that no person, corporation or partnership is liable for personal injuries to or for the death of a rider (or other participant) that may occur as a result of the behavior of equine animals while engaged in any equine activities, and that the rider (or other participant) agrees to engage in the equine activity at his own risk.