Horses are prey animals. Their instincts tell them to flee from anything that startles them — a sudden movement, a silent cyclist appearing from behind, a runner coming fast around a blind curve. A startled horse is unpredictable and potentially dangerous for the rider, the horse, and everyone nearby.

A little heads-up goes a long way.

Say hello — out loud, and from a distance. Your voice tells the horse you are a human, not a threat. Wait for a signal from the rider before passing. The rider knows their horse and will let you know the best way to proceed. Horseback riders have the right of way on Wissahickon trails.

If a rider passes without stopping to chat, they are not being unfriendly — they may simply be keeping their horse calm and moving. A nod and a smile go a long way.

Bikes are quiet — which means horses often don't hear you coming. Call out well before you reach a horse, whether you are approaching from behind or head-on. Wait for the rider's guidance before passing. When approaching head-on, pull over and dismount if asked. Keep talking so the horse knows where you are.

Be an ambassador. Not every trail user knows how horses behave, and that is okay. A friendly explanation goes further than frustration. Slow to a walk when passing hikers and cyclists. Wear a helmet. Carry your phone. And say thank you — the trail users who step aside and give your horse space deserve it.

Please do not leave glass, tin cans, or debris on the trails. These can injure horses and puncture bike tires alike. And in case you were wondering — horse manure is fully biodegradable and poses no health risk to humans or other animals. It belongs to the trail.