Mountain Trail Clinic

Mountain Trail is one of the fastest growing disciplines in the horse world. Whether you would like to compete or be a better partner with your horse on the trail, this course can help. The work that you will do with your horse during this 3-day course will create the groundwork for a safe and sane mount out on the trail. There will be over 30 obstacles that we will work on along with arena work to achieve a basic foundation. From beginner trail to advanced trail, there is something for everyone.

The course will begin in the classroom to explain the training methodology and then you’re off to get your horse in hand with just a halter. You will work on basic ground work that will teach your horse to move on the haunch, shoulder, forward, back, and laterally. Next you will work through the basics of moving through cavalettis and simple obstacles while driving your horse in hand. After lunch the group will move onto the trail course to work on the teeter totter,
bridges, water, logs, and more. Day 2 will be under saddle. Trail obstacles will be ridden after they have been accomplished in hand. Day 3 will be spent on the trail course and then out on a trail ride that has real world obstacles to test your new skills.

Each course will be limited to 10 students and taught by 2 instructors, ensuring lots of hands-on attention. Chris Jonason has 35 years of horse experience and apprenticed with Mark Bollender for 2 years and she was his first certified apprentice. Chris gleans from both her extensive back country experience as well as Mark’s teachings. She presents an easy step-by-step methodology that will help you and your equine friend attain your goals. Chris was an outfitter and farrier for over 35 years with vast experience in the mountains. Horse and rider will be taught as individuals with consideration for their own goals and desires.

Location: Rendezvous Ranch