Now increasingly in vogue…

WHAT IS MOUNTAIN TRAIL?

Mountain Trail Horse is an equestrian discipline that gained popularity in America thanks to rider Mark Bolender, and in recent years has also become increasingly popular in Italy, where it has seen significant growth since 2015. This practice stands out for its ability to tackle routes that include bridges, gates, tarpaulins suspended between trees and logs lying across the path, but it is not simply a gymkhana or a walk in the woods. Mountain Trail challenges the horse and rider to work together in true partnership, combining skill, control and trust.

The philosophy of Mountain Trail is based on total partnership between horse and rider, who must overcome obstacles such as water crossings, Tibetan bridges and narrow passages. There are also control tests, such as leading the horse to a table while eating or drinking. Although traditionally practised outdoors, with at least six natural and artificial obstacles, Mountain Trail has recently been adapted for indoor environments to make it more accessible.

This sport is a great game of mutual trust between horse and rider, and its growing popularity is also due to its inclusiveness. It is a discipline that is accessible to everyone, even those who do not ride regularly. Beginners, for example, can tackle the trails on foot, with the horse on a lead. The breed of horse or type of riding practised is irrelevant: Mountain Trail is open to everyone and does not require aggressive performance, but is based on trust between horse and rider.

During competitions, the ability to overcome obstacles is judged based on technique, precision and the naturalness with which the horse tackles the course. Penalties may be awarded for difficulties in performing the exercises correctly, such as in the case of more than three refusals or if the exercise is not completed on horseback. The essence of Mountain Trail is that the horse must tackle obstacles calmly and confidently, trusting the rider and without fear. Victory is measured by the horse’s mental ability to cooperate, not by physical strength.

In Italy, the discipline began to spread in 2015, although it had already been present since 2000. Mountain Trail is proving to be an educational and formative experience for all types of riders, regardless of the discipline they practise, and offers a unique opportunity to build a deeper relationship with their horse.