6 Fun Horse-Related Wintertime Activities

Winter brings with it all sorts of fun activities. Here are 6 fun horse-related wintertime activities that you and your horse can both enjoy.

1. Trail Rides in the Snow

Take trail riding to a whole new level – head out for a trail ride in the snow. Just make sure that there is no ice under the snow, and take things slow. Remember, it’s more strenuous for your horse to work in the snow than it is to work over normal trails, so make sure that your horse is physically fit and up for the challenge.

2. Sleigh Rides

The winter is the perfect time to head out on a sleigh ride. Even if your horse doesn’t drive, you can probably find sleigh rides offered locally. Get some friends together and make a day of it.

3. Skijoring

Skijoring is a fast-paced winter sport where a rider on horseback tows a skier through an obstacle course of cones and jumps. In skijoring competitions, the horse and rider gallop through the snow with the goal being for the skier to navigate the course as fast as possible.

If you’re not up for participating in skijoring yourself, you may be able to find competitions where you can go and watch in person.

4. Massage

Equine massage is a great activity for the winter. Consider getting a group of friends together and taking part in a basic equine massage course. By learning the basics of equine massage, you can help to keep your horse more comfortable, and massage is also a great way to bond with your horse.

You can massage your horse even when temperatures drop. Your horse’s body head will warm your hands, and if you are in a barn, you may find that the effort of massaging your horse warms you up nicely.

5. Bareback Riding

Want to stay extra toasty while you’re riding in the winter? Then consider going for a bareback ride. When you ride bareback, your horse’s heat quickly transfers to your own body. There’s no cold saddle to settle into, and even at the walk you’ll stay warm during your ride. For added fun, head out for a bareback ride through a snowy pasture or riding ring.

6. Clipping

Many horse owners decide to clip their horses in the winter. Clipping your horse can help to keep him from excessively sweating during exercise, meaning that you’ll have to spend less time cooling him down after each ride. If you’re up for a challenge, consider clipping a design or shape into your horse’s hindquarters.