subject: Trail Guide [print this page] Like all of us, horses need steady care and consideration to thrive and reach their fullest potential. It makes sense to have someone like you, a horse lover, working with these treasured animals, whether you perform your job in the saddle or out of it. Let your love of horses carry you on a path of professional exploration, one that can lead to your ultimate destination of a rewarding career in the equine industry. This book is designed for each and every person who wants to join the world of horses in some professional capacity and needs some guidance in finding that dream job.
There are diverse possibilities hidden within this broad term of employment. Trail guides work for dude ranches, riding stables, or any facility that offers horseback riding to non-professionals, but their duties vary widely from place to place. In its most basic form, the position requires mounted guides to lead riders over a country trail, and the guides need no more than rudimentary riding skills and a familiarity with the terrain. Other trail guide jobs may have additional requirements, such as experience with team riding, horseshoeing, backcountry outfitting, navigating of difficult rural terrain, and survival techniques. On longer trips, especially those involving overnight camping, guides may even have to entertain campers by singing or playing an instrument.
The position of trail guide sounds simple but actually involves a great deal of responsibility, as these employers must oversee the safety of inexperienced, often first-time riders without any control over the quality of horses or equipment. In addition to riding skills at a level suited to the job, trail guides need good communication and leadership skills, knowledge of the geographical area, a bright and encouraging personality, and a desire to work with horses in an outdoor environment.
Pros
Close daily contact with horses
Outdoor work environment
Opportunity for employment at all levels of riding skill
