Do first-time riders get instructions on riding the horse?

Yes, first-time riders will receive instructions on riding the horse through a teaching trail ride, which includes a demonstration.

Can small children ride on the same horse with an adult?

No, small children cannot ride on the same horse with an adult. However, we do have a Velcro system that fits in our saddles to keep children stable on their horses. The designated parent or our guide will lead their horse for the comfort and safety of the children. This allows for a unique experience where children can get the feel of a real ride while being supervised. Note: Prices do not vary whether a child or adult is riding.

What happens if bad weather is forecast on the day of my ride?

If there is a 30% or more chance of rain, we will check the radar to monitor the location and time of the storm. Based on this information, we will plan your ride, adjusting the time or rescheduling as necessary.

Is wearing a helmet required for riding?

Wearing a helmet is not mandatory, but we do have some helmets available for those who want to feel safer. You can also bring your own helmet from a bike or similar gear. Just ask your trail guide to get one for you.

Can I book a ride for my group?

Yes, we offer group rides for families, reunions, or parties. We can accommodate up to 10 people per group, including small children.

Where is Touch of Chrome Trail Rides located?

Touch of Chrome Trail Rides is located at Rocky Creek Park at Benbrook Lake, one of the prettiest trails in North Texas. Our meeting point is at the grassy parking lot located at 5900 Rocky Creek Park Road, Crowley, Texas, 76036. Please make a reservation ahead of time if you want a ride, as on-demand rides aren't available unless there is availability.

What do I do if I need to cancel my reservation?

To obtain a refund, you must cancel your reservation a minimum of 12

When Is It Too Hot to Ride a Horse?

Heat can turn into a medical condition, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and even trigger other events or aggravate a disease. If you’re planning to enjoy an outdoor activity in warm weather, you should always take the necessary precautions to prevent the negative effects of heat.

From that aspect, at Touch of Chrome Paints, we also look after our clients’ safety and well-being when they visit us for a horseback trail ride, given the high temperatures we experience in Texas, not only for them but also for our horses.

Horses are more susceptible to heat, and because of that, we refrain from riding in excess heat. This doesn’t mean you can’t ride a horse in hot temperatures, but it raises the question, “When is it too hot to ride a horse?”

In this blog, we’ll answer that in depth, so you can protect yourself and your horse when you go on your next horse-riding adventure on a hot summer day. Let’s dive in!

Dangers of an Overheated Horse

As we mentioned, overheating can have a negative effect on your horse. But what does it look like for them? Riding your horse in extreme heat promotes the risk of heat stress and heat stroke.

Because every horse is different, some may be more susceptible to heat stress than others. It’s important to monitor your horse for signs of heat stress and heat stroke, so you can know if the weather is too hot for it:

Heat Stress

Heat stress occurs when a horse is struggling to regulate its body temperature to reduce its body heat. Your horse might be suffering from heat stress if it shows the following symptoms:

Excessive sweating or lack of sweating (horses with anhidrosis)
Rapid breathing
Weakness, stumbling, or refusal to work
Dehydration (lethargy, pale and tacky mucous membranes)
Hot skin

Heat Stroke

When heat stress isn’t addressed, it can turn into a heatstroke. If the problem has become too severe, you’ll notice some of the signs of heat stress that don’t go away, such as rapid breathing, stumbling, or disorientation. In extreme conditions, horses may collapse or even convulse. Immediate veterinary action is required.

Should You Ride Your Horse in Hot Weather?

Now you can tell if a horse is overheated, but you may be wondering, “When is it too hot to ride a horse?”. If you’re planning to go outside on a horse ride during hot days, you need to consider the following factors, and make a sensible decision for you and your horse:

The Heat Index Chart

To determine if it’s too hot to ride your horse, there are two main aspects to consider: temperature and humidity. Even if the actual temperature is relatively low, there might be humid weather, and because horses cool their bodies through sweating, it won’t evaporate well with high humidity.
One of the most comprehensive tools to consider if it’s safe to ride your horse which combines both aspects, is The Heat Index by the U.S. National Weather Service. The heat index is obtained by adding the air temperature in degrees Fahrenheit to the relative humidity (percent humidity).
Once you’ve obtained the figure, you can then compare it with the following guidelines to determine if it’s safe to ride your horse:

Below 130: Safe to ride.
130 – 150: Your horse will have less ability to cool itself down. Ensure proper hydration.
150+: Your horse is highly prone to heat stress. If you ride it, avoid the hottest times of the day, and monitor it for signs of overheating.
180+: Unsafe to ride.

Fitness & Acclimation

The heat index is a good indicator of the overall weather conditions when it’s safe to ride a horse. However, because each horse is different, you also have to consider its characteristics, such as fitness and acclimation.

The horse’s fitness level can dictate how well it’ll cop with high heat. Generally, overweight horses or those that aren’t used to frequent exercise are more prone to struggle with heat and humidity.

Additionally, there’s acclimation. This is the process in which your horse becomes accustomed to the climate. If your horse is used to hot and humid conditions, it will resist the heat more. If it isn’t, it will be harder for it to perform in hot and humid climates.

Time of Day

The time of day will also contribute to your horse’s resistance to heat. For many horses and riders, early mornings or late evenings are the best times for horseback riding when the sun isn’t at its highest point. You can also ride during the hottest parts of the day, but your horse might have a harder time cooling itself.

Other Considerations

Even if you’ve deemed it safe to ride on a hot day, there are some necessary measures horse owners and riders should take when stepping outside with their horses, which include:

Keep Your Horse Hydrated: Always ensure your horse has access to fresh, cool water before and after riding.
Shade and Ventilation: If possible, ride in shaded areas and ensure your horse has access to shelter and clean water after exercise.
Cooling Measures: Use cooling techniques like cold water hosing or fans to help your horse recover after a ride in the heat.

Touch of Chrome Paints: Providing the Best Experience for Riders & Horses

We hope these guidelines and tips ensure your next horse riding adventure is fun and safe. At Touch of Chrome Paints, we always welcome you to our ranch, guaranteeing your comfort and our horses’ comfort by monitoring the weather and providing proper care. If you have more questions on the topic or would like to schedule a trail ride, contact us today!