Heidi Melocco

If you imagine slow, nose-to-tail rides when you hear the term ‘guest ranch,’ think again. We’ve tracked down six top ranch resorts with programs designed for experienced riders.

On the trail and in camp, high-tech gadgets can help make your equine escapades safer, easier, and more fun than ever before.

Become a strong advocate for keeping your favorite trails open for riding with these expert strategies.

Hone your horse’s manners and your leadership skills over the winter for a better ride in the spring with these tips from top trainer/clinician Julie Goodnight.

Prepare your trail horse for the veterinarian with these lessons in ground manners from noted clinician Julie Goodnight.

These great trail tips will teach you how to mount a horse from the right side, where to stash your lead rope while trail riding and what to pack on a trail ride. Will your horse allow you to mount and dismount from either side? Can you mount a horse from the right side?

These Trail Tips will show you the proper etiquette when riding in a group and the best way to lead your bridled horse on the ground.

Learn how to adjust the curb strap on your bridle and why you should choose leather chaps for trail riding.

A listing of saddles and pads that did not make it into the Gear Guide of the May issue.

In the November/December 2010 issue of The Trail Rider, Julie Goodnight explains how to use emergency stopping techniques. While it’s important to know how to stop in an emergency, such techniques

This season, you've promised yourself you'll make the leap. You're ready to camp with your horse—well, for just one night. You'll camp beneath the stars before a day

Improve your horsemanship, and develop a kind, trustworthy relationship with your trail horse with top clinician/trainer Julie Goodnight. Teach your horse to sidepass for greater on-trail maneuverability.

Improve your rope-handling skills with top trainer/clinician Julie Goodnight.

Improve your horsemanship, and develop a kind, trustworthy relationship with your trail horse with top clinician/trainer Julie Goodnight. Teach your horse to calmly approach any potentially scary object.

Help your horse stay calm and spook-free on the trail with this method from top trainer/clinician Julie Goodnight

Improve your horsemanship, and develop a kind, trustworthy relationship with your trail horse with top clinician/trainer Julie Goodnight. This issue: Teach your horse to stand still as you mount.

On the trail, it's safer if your horse will stand still for mounting.

skills. Ask him to pick up each foot while he's standing in a ground-tie command

Use our valuable planning and attending tips to get the most out of your next expo adventure.

Your guide to a perfect overnight-camping adventure with your equine friend.

Tips on water crossing and your tie down on the trail. See why you might want to take it off before you cross water.