trail

Spring 2023 Riding Practicum and Equine Team Links are Now Live!

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UConn’s Department of Animal Science offers a self-improvement, non-credit, extracurricular horse-riding program entitled “Horse Practicum.” The Practicum is open to all students enrolled at the University as well as faculty, staff and the community. Although priority for riding is given to Animal Science majors, all participants are welcome on a space available basis. Lessons are offered in Hunt Seat, Dressage, Trail, Polo and Western at a variety of levels. The Riding teams are Equestrian, Dressage, Varsity Polo, and Western.

For more information visit s.uconn.edu/practicum

flyer with woman riding a horse and text

Headphone Etiquette on the Trail

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headphone etiquette rulesHeadphone etiquette on the trail:
With the world situation changing daily, more people have been finding their way
out to trails. Some it maybe their 1 st time riding or walking trails. There are still
some rules and etiquette that need to be followed.
Most of us enjoy listening to music, podcasts or audiobooks to add to our
experience. But we still need to be aware of our environment and the people we
share it with. One rule to remember is to keep the volume low so you hear bikers or
others on the trail. People move at different rates so it is important to move a side
(stay right) as needed so others can safely pass. This will reduce injuries to all
enjoying the outdoors.

To Learn More Please Visit

Trail Etiquette Lessons: Tips for Harmonious Hikes

Do You Listen to Music on Trails?

 

 

Personal Safety on the Trail

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two horses headed out onto the trails with their equestrian riders at Bluff Point State Park in Groton
Photo: Stacey Stearns

All trail users should follow basic tips for personal safety. These tips can also be adapted to other situations.

1. Be aware of your surroundings and other people on the trails and in parking lots. Do not wear head- phones or earbuds.

2. Park in well-lit areas and lock the doors of your vehicle, and trailer for equestrians.

3. If possible, don’t go alone. Walk or ride with a friend. If you think someone is following you, go towards public areas.

4. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Share your route with them.

5. Carry your cell phone, but be aware that you might not have cell phone service in all areas.

6. Carry a map. Know your route, and carry the map anyway.

7. Carry pepper spray for protection if it makes you feel more comfortable.

8. Wear blaze orange or reflective material during hunting season.

9. Carry water and sunscreen.
10. Pay attention to trail markers so you can identify your location.

Download our brochure for more information on trail etiquette.

This message is brought to you by the UConn Extension PATHS team – People Active on Trails for Health and Sustainability. We are an interdisciplinary team of University of Connecticut extension educators, faculty, and staff committed to understanding and promoting the benefits of trails and natural resources for health, community & economic development and implementing a social ecological approach to health education.