dappledear

Don't forget some nice bright, reflective safety gear to make sure you can be seen. Whether in the woods or on the road there are plenty of things to worry about without the issue of being seen coming up. For yourself a vest or jacket and helmet cover work great. For your horse they offer browband covers, stirrup tabs, saddlepads, and tail wraps. I think I've even seen bell boots or splint boots in reflectives. Its better to be seen than worry about getting mistaken for an animal by a hunter or not noticed by a motorist not expecting you.

Jewel

All of these are great tips and necessary equipment if you are going to be riding in a wooded area where there might be hunters or in a State Park where you might have to cross roads. The idea place to trail ride though is at a stables or dude ranch that has it's own private trails. Then you and your horse can enjoy the ride without so much cumbersome equipment.

SaddleSore

Its worth reminding people because let's face it, most people don't even do that when they are riding on roads at night time or dusk. Its horrifying to see how many riders are out, next to invisible and not wearing helmets.

ilovehorses

I think it is important to have some of that equipment even on private trails. You never know that someone might be on those trails too and wont see you.

pickles

The equipment mentioned is not cumbersome compared to a full dress outfit for showing or equipment such as a safety vest for jumping. Compared to what you should wear to bicycle or skateboard its nothing.

You should always assume there are hidden dangers such as hunters or people in the wrong spots. Especially on large properties with shared trails or open access you can never be sure what you may encounter.