It is that time of the year again. Yes we are still on our horses but it is hurting season in Colorado and from August through September we will be scouting & hunting for big game. During this time we will not be posting new rides and will not be documenting any of our adventures for the public. (sorry)
If you have any question regarding existing rides, or rides you would like go on, shoot us an email and we will try to answer it for you.
We will have a schedule for October, and possibly for November – we typically ride steadily through Thanksgiving and then it is hit & miss.
Riding during hunting Season
Season Dates:
West of I25: September – November
East of I25: October – December
Most horseback riders are grateful when summer heat gives way to cooler autumn weather. What better time for a leisurely trail ride? Autumn is very often hunting season too. That may conjure up romantic images of blaze orange-coated riders racing across open fields.
The reality is that today’s hunters are more likely to be sitting in a tree stand, wearing camouflage and holding a loaded gun or bow. Bow hunters are not required to where blaze orange, and the chances are very high you’ll never see them; but rest assured, they will see you! Unfortunately incidents between horseback riders and novice hunters are not unheard of.
Sadly, horses have been shot from beneath their riders by over anxious hunters. Even people, horses and other livestock at pasture are at risk during hunting seasons, especially if their camps or pastures border on forests. There have also been documented cases where overly passionate equestrians thought it a good idea to help out wildlife by blazing through the woods; a dangerous and reckless act.
All sports enthusiasts have to learn to respect each other and that is certainly the case during hunting season - simply put, stay out of each other’s way. Horseback riding on the trails during hunting season means riders have to take extra precautions. As an avid hunter, it pains me to make this statement, but it can’t be more ture, especially the closer to the city you ride!
In Colorado it is unlawful to interfere with hunters. That includes, but is not limited to, alarming, distracting, or frightening prey; causing prey to flee by using light or noise; chasing prey on foot or by vehicle; throwing objects; making movements; harassing hunters by using threats or actions; erecting barriers to deny access to hunting areas; and intentionally injecting yourself into the line of fire. Violators face criminal prosecution and may have to pay damages to the victim, as well as court costs. Learn more on this topic by reading the Hunter Harassment page.
Before you horseback ride:
- Find out what the hunting regulations are in your area such as what time guns may be fired and what animals are in season.
- Try to avoid known hunting areas!
- Try to stay in open fields where you will be more visible.
- Avoid riding at peak times such as early morning.
- No matter what the season, when headed out on trail with your horse, tell someone your planned route and what time you will be back.
- If you meet hunters tell them your planned route. Try to keep the communication open, no matter what your opinion towards hunting.
When you ride your horse:
- Ride with a buddy.
- Wear a ‘hunting orange’ vest, saddle pads, ahlerts and/or saddle bags.
- Wear a brightly colored helmet cover.
- Make or buy a brightly colored rump sheet for your horse.
- If there is any chance you will be near gun fire, be sure you are on a horse that is used to it!
At home or camp:
- Use a ‘hunting orange’ turnout sheet.
- Keep your horses close to your house or camp during peak hunting times.
- Mark your corrals well! Make sure that all contained stock is well makred
- Check your fence lines frequently and check for gates accidentally left open, you do not want your stock running loose around hunting areas.
Most hunters are conscientious sportsmen who follow the rules. Be respectful and courteous, and they will respond in kind. Remember that while we can enjoy our sport almost year-round hunters have a right to their relatively short time in the woods.
