Trails are a good experience for any horse. Horses encounter all types of stimuli on trails. Trail experience gives the horse something to think about and allows the horse to make decisions naturally.  The ever changing surroundings aid the horse's ability to develop its skills and helps the horse mature mentally. Trail training also helps to build a good foundation for any discipline or sport that the horse may participate.

Once the trail training is complete your horse should be able to maneuver around tree stumps, pick his way through downed timber, walk through belly deep brush, and negotiate tough trails with ease and confidence. Trail training is a great confidence builder for horses and also helps them get over spooky issues.

He should be safe on narrow ledge trails, keep balanced going up and down hills, walk through mud and cross streams, as well as cross wooden bridges; and have been exposed to various types of wildlife such as deer, turkeys, ducks, geese, rabbits, squirrels, etc. The horse will also have learned to tie on picket lines and be a pleasure to take camping.