Rules

Prior to your ride you will have to agree in writing to these rules and conditions

 

  1. Voluntary Participation: I am choosing to ride a horse entirely of my own free will. I have not been pressured or forced into this decision in any way.

 

  1. Understanding of Horse Behavior: I understand that horses are large, swift, and powerful creatures with their own minds and behaviors. Their reactions can be unpredictable.

 

  1. Assumption of Risk: I acknowledge the inherent risks of horse riding. I understand that a horse may cause intentional or unintentional harm. I will not hold SoCal Horse Adventures liable for any injuries or damages I might sustain.

 

  1. Liability Release: I agree not to sue or make a claim against SoCal Horse Adventures for any damage or injuries. Any dispute will be settled through arbitration, the rules of which both parties shall agree upon.

 

  1. Animal Welfare: Cruelty towards any animal while in association with SoCal Horse Adventures is strictly prohibited.

 

  1. No Smoking: Smoking in the vicinity of horses is absolutely forbidden.

 

  1. Safety Precautions: I will wear a helmet at all times while riding.

 

  1. Maintain Distance: I am responsible for ensuring a minimum distance of 6 feet between horses. Any accident due to failure to maintain this distance is solely my responsibility, and SoCal Horse Adventures or their horses cannot be blamed.

 

  1. Sobriety Requirement: Riding under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicant is prohibited.

 

  1. Guided Riding: Trotting, cantering, and galloping are only allowed based on the trail guide or instructor's discretion. It is strictly forbidden near vehicle traffic, on paved roads, downhill slopes, near cliffs, or any location deemed unsafe.

 

  1. Guide Proximity: I commit to always staying within both eyesight and verbal communication distance of my guide during the ride. This is essential for my safety and the proper functioning of the activity.

 

  1. Horse Health Priority: The health and well-being of the horse are paramount. If a horse starts limping or shows signs of distress, I will dismount and, if required, walk the horse for the remainder of the ride or back to the designated area.

 

  1. Weight Limit: Most horses have a weight limit of 200 lbs. A few larger horses can carry up to 240 lbs, but this is subject to horse availability on the day of the ride.

 

  1. Fitness Requirement: Every rider must be fit enough to mount and dismount the horse without any assistance in order to participate in the trail rides.

 

  1. Group Ride Protocol: For group rides, if I cannot keep up and am slowing the group down, I will be asked to dismount and walk back. If asked to dismount due to inability to keep up, there will be no refunds provided. If I am not confident about my riding skills, I should consider taking lessons or doing a private trail ride first.

 

  1. Photography Consent: I understand and consent that SoCal Horse Adventures is permitted to take photos and videos of me during the activity, and may use such photographs and recordings for promotional and/or commercial purposes on their website, social media platforms, and other channels without further notice or compensation.

 

  1. Rule Adherence: Violation of any of the above rules will result in the immediate termination of my ride, without a refund. I will also be banned from future rides with SoCal Horse Adventures. If asked to dismount, the horse will be taken from my care, and I will be responsible for my own return, regardless of the location.
  2. Minimum age: we do not have a minimum riding age, however we will only take riders on the trail when we feel that this is safe for both the rider and the horse. If we determine that trail riding would be too risky, we will hold the entire ride at our ranch. All minors must be accompanied by someone over the age of 21. For the lessons and rides at our ranch- an accompanying adult has to be present at the ranch and does not need to ride. For trail rides, the accompanying adult must be also participating in the ride, or walk alongside the whole time.

 

  1. Horse comfort and safety: I understand that I will be allowed to trot, canter, and gallop only if my trail guide decides that it is safe for me as well as safe and comfortable for the horse. If I jerk on horses mouth, flap hard on it’s back, or hold the horn on the saddle, I will be asked to slow down and the rest of the ride will be at a walking pace. I will not protest or argue with my guide. It’s at their sole discretion whether or not I will be allowed to go faster than a walking pace.
  2. English riding-  We do not offer western riding.

  3. Personal Belongings: SoCal Horse Adventures is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal belongings brought on the ride. We do not offer shipping services for lost and found items.