
Office of Planning, Environment, & Realty (HEP)

Equestrian Design Guidebook for Trails, Trailheads and Campgrounds


Chapter 10--Securing Horses and Mules--Continued

Trail and Corral Gates

Gates must be wide enough to allow riders, stock, and loads to pass through without rubbing. The minimum width for trail gates is 5 feet (1.5 meters), and the minimum width for corral gates is 4 feet (1.2 meters). A 6-foot- (1.8-meter-) wide gate is easier to use when riders are leading stock (figure 10-21). Standard, prefabricated gates are available in 4 and 6 feet widths, while 5-foot gates generally must be custom built. Trails often have standard 6-foot prefabricated gates because they cost less than 5-foot custom gates.

Photo of a group of riders with packstock.
Figure 10-21--The bulky loads carried by packstock require
relatively wide gate openings.

Gates for Arenas and Round Pens

The minimum recommended gate width for arenas and round pens is 12 feet (3.6 meters) to allow access by maintenance vehicles. Large gates may be awkward for riders to open and close when they are leading an animal. To avoid installing a single, heavy gate consider installing two, 6-foot (1.8-meter) gates, or a 12-foot gate for vehicles with an adjacent 6-foot gate for riders (figure 10-22).

Photo of an arena that has two gate sizes.
Figure 10-22--This arena can be accessed through
a large or a small gate.

Gate Designs

Stock perceive narrow gates, or those that don't swing completely open, as tight spaces and may move too quickly through them for safe passage. Gates that swing freely in and out of the enclosure are the best. Gates should be easy to open and close with one hand--riders should not have to pick up a gate end and carry it. Once opened, gates should stay open long enough to lead an animal through them. A gate that unexpectedly swings closed against an animal can startle it. Self-closing gates that close too quickly can snag packs, loads, and reins in the closing device. Many riders dismount, hold the self-closing gate open with one hand, and awkwardly maneuver the animal through with the other hand. Sometimes, another rider dismounts and holds the gate open as others pass. To remedy such problems, install a large hook and an eye bolt to hold the gate open.

Gate Materials

Construct gates from smooth fence materials, such as steel, to discourage stock from rubbing against them and straining the hinges. The ideal gate is strong and lightweight--heavy gates frequently sag (figure 10-23) over time. Gates made of wood rails or lumber are heavy, especially if they span more than 5 feet (1.5 meters). Wood gates longer than 5 feet will require frequent maintenance. A premanufactured gate made of steel tubing is a sturdier option that will require less maintenance (figure 10-24). Prefabricated farm gates made with formed flat steel or standard aluminum livestock gates are not safe for horses and mules. When a horse gets a leg caught in a gate made with these materials, the rolled edges can open, injuring the animal as it tries to pull free. The lightest gate material is chain (figure 10-25). When gates are made of wire mesh, a structural frame of steel or vinyl is recommended for stability and ease of use.

Photo of wooden corrals and gates with horses in them.
Figure 10-23--Wood corral gates are heavy and can sag over
time. This corral has rails attached to the outside of posts. A horse
could pop the rails loose by leaning against them.

Photo of wooden corrals with premanufactured tubular steel gates.
Figure 10-24--Premanufactured tubular steel gates are lighter
and less likely to sag than wood gates.

Photo of wooden corrals with chain gates.
Figure 10-25--Chain gates are simple and effective. Some riders
do not like them because a horse or mule may get its head or hoof
caught in the large openings.

Gate Safety

A safe gate doesn't have sharp edges or protrusions that can cut stock. Figure 10-26 shows an attempt to repair a damaged gate with baling twine, unacceptable for recreation sites. Grind smooth or round all gate corners. Otherwise, curious or playful stock may hurt themselves. Although most tubular steel gates have safe, rounded bottom corners, some have sharp ends on the vertical tubes that can cause serious injury if an animal catches a hoof or leg under the gate. Maintain gates regularly.

Photo of a broken gate that is temporarily fixed with baling twine.
Figure 10-26--Baling twine provides a temporary--and possibly
unsafe--field fix for a broken gate. Schedule regular inspection
and maintenance for gates and fences in recreation sites.

Gateposts can support a heavy swinging gate if the posts are set in concrete. Minimize the gaps between the gate and the gateposts, so swished tails won't get caught. Gates should fit closely to the posts, with clearance only for hinges. Make sure the upper hinge pin on horse gates made from pipe or tube is placed correctly. If the pin is set too low, stock can rear up and catch a front leg or hoof between the gate and the gatepost. Minimize the hazard by placing the upper hinge pin as high as possible on the gatepost. Avoid gates made from portable fence panels that have a bottom rail at ground level. When the ground erodes away from the base of the rail, stock can trip or wedge a hoof between the tube and the ground. If these gates must be used, they require regular maintenance.

Accessible Gates

Accessible shared-use trails must have gates that meet ADA/ABAAG requirements. Because gates that can be opened from horseback may not meet pedestrian accessibility requirements, consider installing two separate gates, one for riders and one for other trail users, including people in wheelchairs. Figure 10-27 shows a horse-friendly road gate combined with an accessible kissing gate. This gate and the gates in the following examples don't have latches. These gates would be suitable for trail installations, perimeter fences, and places where stock don't spend a lot of time. Gates without latches are not suitable for areas where horses and mules are confined, because they would figure out how to escape. The tread through accessible gates must meet the requirements for firmness and stability.

Drawings of a road closure gate that has a kissing gate alongside it.
Figure 10-27--This prototype road closure gate has a kissing gate alongside.
The combination would allow stock, pedestrians, and people who use
wheelchairs to pass, while still restricting many motor vehicles.

In the drawing the text reads, Nonmotorized trail, 43 1/2 in, 60 in dia., 48 in, 30 in 32 in min. Plan View, 14 ft max. 12 in max. 3 in max, 54 in, and Elevation View.

In a sidebar the text reads:


  1. When a need has been appropriately determined, use standard object markers (Type II and III) to mark hazards, such as gates, within or adjacent to the trail.
  2. When a need has been appropriately determined, traffic control devices, such as retroreflective signs, may be used on roads and trails open to motorized or mechanized traffic.
  3. All traffic control devices must meet the MUTCD or governing agency standards.
  4. Signs are not shown for clarity.

In 2006, MTDC developed a prototype equestrian kissing gate without a latch that is accessible to people in wheelchairs. Kissing gates, a half-round or V-shaped fence with a hinged gate, are used in the United Kingdom to confine livestock while allowing people to pass. The gate opens by pushing from either side, and closes when it hits the fence on either side. When the gate is pushed partially open, a gap allows a single person to pass through. The prototype MTDC gate combines a horse stile with a traditional kissing gate design (figure 10-28). This gate is appropriate where motor vehicle use is not allowed, because the gate combination restricts the passage of most OHVs and motorcycles.

Drawings of a combination horse stile and kissing gate.
Figure 10-28--A combination horse stile and accessible kissing gate.

In the drawing the text reads, 60 in dia., 39 in, 30 in, 48 in, 60 in, Plan View, Nonmotorized trail, 78 3/4 in, 54 in, 36 in, 6 1/2 in, 12 in, 30 in, and Elevation View. In a sidebar the text reads:


  3. Retroreflective signs may be considered for added emphasis on trails that are close to motorized and mechanized traffic.
  4. All traffic control devices must meet the MUTCD or governing agency standards.
  5. Signs are not shown for clarity.

In Utah, the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service use a dual-purpose V-gate (figure 10-29) that has an opening at the bottom wide enough to allow wheelchair access. The opening flares at the top to allow loaded packstock to pass. The gate blocks use by OHVs with four wheels, but doesn't restrict smaller vehicles, such as bicycles or motorcycles.

Drawings of a V-gate that is used for stock and pedestirans.
Figure 10-29--A V-gate for stock and pedestrians.

In the drawing the text reads, 80 in, Plan View, Nonmotorized trail, 74 1/4 in, 2 7/8 in dia. (typical), 32 in, 54 in, 24 in (typical) 16 in (typical), 4 in, 12 in rebar, and Elevation View. In the sidebar the text reads:


  5. Signs are not shown for clarity.

Figures 10-30 and 10-31 show another gate that discourages motor vehicles while allowing access for stock and wheelchairs. It is a modified chicane--double bend--design that incorporates an L-shaped leg off the main rail fence. To be accessible, the dimensions at the right turn must allow a 60-inch (1524-millimeter) turning radius for a wheelchair, which may permit passage by some small OHVs.

Photo of a chicane with text that reads, Entrance.
Figure 10-30--Chicanes use tight turns to prevent unauthorized
use. The entrance to this modified chicane is immediately left of
the signs.

Photo of a dogleg chicane where a horse and rider are trying to enter.
Figure 10-31--The dogleg design of a chicane
restricts some trail users.

Gate Latches




Figure 10-32-- Premanufactured gates often come with
a slot latch and chain to wrap around the
gatepost. Attaching a sturdy snap that can
be hooked back into the wrapped chain
prevents most curious horses and mules from
letting themselves out.



Accessible Latches


Tethering Devices and Enclosures




Hitch Rails



Hitch rails are not needed:

  • At camp units with permanent corrals



crossmembers eventually weaken.

to accommodate the number of stock expected. This
unusually long hitch rail is at a trailhead that is heavily
used during hunting season.


Figure 10-44--A hitch rail.

Figure 10-45-- Welded steel loops prevent lead ropes
from sliding along this hitch rail.

rail confine lead ropes to the horizontal bar and make
it a good design choice. However, this site would be
more horse friendly without the raised curb, large loose
rocks, and encroaching vegetation.

slide off the open ends, leaving stock loose.



make these hitch rails unpopular with many riders.

to install hitch rails. Provide plenty of clear space around the
welcome amenity.

Hitching Posts

A hitching post is a variation of a hitch rail that has a single, solid upright with a ring attached near the top (figure 10-51). Riders tie the lead rope to the ring. While hitching posts save space, they have several drawbacks--they only accommodate one horse or mule at a time, and the animal can circle the post, wrapping the lead rope. Use other tethering devices in recreation sites.

Photo of a hitch rail in a grassy field.
Figure 10-51--Stock tied to
hitching posts tend to move in
circles, wrapping the lead rope,
restricting their movement, and
possibly injuring themselves.

Trailer Ties

Some riders prefer tying stock to the side or end of a horse trailer in such a way that the animals can eat, drink, and lie down (figure 10-52). When animals are nearby, riders who sleep in the horse trailer or towing vehicle can keep an eye on their stock. Access to equipment, feed, and supplies is also convenient. To allow riders to tie their stock to trailers, design extra length and width into parking pads and parking spaces. Consult Chapter 8--Designing Roads and Parking Areas and Chapter 9--Designing Camp and Picnic Units for more information.

Photo of two horses that are tied up to a highline on a trailer.
Figure 10-52--Riders frequently anchor highlines to their horse
trailers. --Courtesy of Kandee Haertel.

Stock tied to a trailer can only move sideways 180 or 270 degrees. They can untie themselves, catch their heads or a leg in the lead rope or under the trailer, or injure themselves on sharp, protruding objects. Stock tied to trailers require close monitoring.

Highline Ties

Some riders prefer tethering stock to a highline, also called a tethering line or picket line. A highline is a rope stretched taut between two secure uprights above the animal's head. The stretched rope has tie loops spaced for securing stock with lead ropes. Sturdy trees often are used as anchors for highlines (figure 10-53). When trees are not available, posts set in concrete may serve as uprights (figure 10-54). Riders sometimes park their horse trailers parallel to each other and stretch a rope between them. This is feasible only in locations with double-party or several-party parking pads or group parking areas. Many riders prefer highlines because their stock can move 360 degrees. Highlines are easy to carry and install, and they are an option for stock that shouldn't be confined in corrals.

Photo of two horses that are tied to a highline.
Figure 10-53--A highline allows stock substantial freedom of
movement. Care must be taken to protect surrounding vegetation
and ground surfaces.
--Courtesy of Kandee Haertel.

Photo of a post and hand winch where a highline is attached.
Figure 10-54--To be effective, highlines must be stretched taut.
A hand winch helps to apply enough tension.

Highlines require a cleared area of at least 32 feet (9.8 meters) wide by 24 feet (7.3 meters) deep to accommodate two animals (figure 10-55). Plan the location of the cleared areas to avoid sensitive soils. Refer to Chapter 13--Reducing Environmental and Health Concerns for more information on soils. Protect the vegetation, too--hungry or curious stock may devour edibles within 12 feet (3.7 meters) above the cleared space and within 7 feet (2.1 meters) to the side. Trees or branches anchoring highlines should be at least 1 foot (0.3 meter) in diameter. Permanent posts with sturdy tie hooks can be installed for highlines. Securely weld or bolt the tie hooks to the posts.

Drawing of a highline that is made for two animals. In the drawing the text reads, Plan View, 24 ft min. 12 ft min. (typical), Highline, Tie loop, Minimum cleared area, leveled, sloped to drain, and surfaced with suitable material, Post or tree, 1 ft min. 30 ft min., Elevation View, Nut with locking washer, Tie hook 1/2 in dia. galvanized eye bolt, 32 ft min., Tie hook welded or bolted to post, Highline post 6 to 8 in dia. filled with concrete, Concrete footing, 10 ft min., 12 ft min., 7 ft, Finished grade, and Nut with locking washer.
Figure 10-55--A horse area with a highline suitable for two animals.

In areas that are not prone to vandalism, managers may provide ropes for highlines. However, most riders prefer to bring their own ropes. Install a highline by stretching a suitable rope tightly between the trees or posts, about 7 feet (2.1 meters) above the ground (figure 10-56). Suitable ropes include a ½-inch (12.7-millimeter) multifilament polyesterplus-hemp rope or 3⁄8-inch (9.5-millimeter) poly Dacron rope. Using 2-inch- (51-millimeter-) wide, flat tree-saver straps (figure 10-57), or an equally wide padded rope, helps prevent damage to trees. Fixed tie loops should be at least 12 feet (3.6 meters) apart. The outside loops should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from trees or posts. At this distance, the animal's heavy front quarters are away from the tree, minimizing soil compaction on tree roots. Do not use metal cables and connectors with metal uprights, as they can be targets for lightning strikes.

Photo of a highline that is attached to trees. In the drawing the text reads, Padded rope or tree-saver straps (typical), 32 ft min. 10 ft min. 12 ft min., Tie loops, Highline, 7 ft, and 12 in min. trunk (typical).
Figure 10-56--A highline attached to trees.

Two drawings, one of a Quick-Release Knot (Nontightening) and of a Flat Strap around a tree. In the drawings the text reads, Insert second loop into first loop and Insert third loop into second loop.
Figure 10-57--Highlines can be quickly set up using
tree-saver straps and a rope.


Some campers like the security of keeping their stock in corrals, especially riders who have a corral at home. Stock have maximum freedom of movement in corrals, and riders don't have to monitor their stock as frequently. Of all the options presented in this chapter, well-designed corrals that include suitable gates and latches are usually the best choice for recreation sites.

Most stock want to roll on their backs after a workout. If they don't have adequate space to roll in corrals, they can cast a leg or hoof--get it stuck--in the rails. A 12- by 12-foot (3.6- by 3.6-meter) corral is the minimum a larger animal needs to roll, move, and turn around. It also provides enough space for a horse or mule to escape an aggressive animal in an adjoining corral. Where space allows, a 12- by 16- foot (3.6- by 4.9-meter) corral is preferred. Locate corral posts at every corner and midway on each side (figure 10-58). Place posts every 6 feet (1.8 meters) in 12-foot corrals, and every 8 feet (2.4 meters) in 16-foot corrals.

Photo of a single corral set. In the drawing text reads, 24 ft, 12 ft, 6 ft (typical), 2 3/8 in rail posts (typical), 1 7/8 in horizontal rail (typical), 4 ft gate (typical), 4 ft, and 8 ft.
Figure 10-58--Dimensions for a single corral set. A single
corral set holds two animals.

The greatest cost and space efficiencies are achieved when two 12- by 12-foot (3.6- by 3.6-meter) or two 12- by 16-foot (3.6- by 4.9-meter) corrals share a side, forming a corral set (figures 10-59 and 10-60). A drawback to corral sets is that the adjoining enclosures can only be used for compatible stock. Horses or mules that fight, kick, and bite should not be confined adjacent to other stock. It is the rider's responsibility to minimize aggression between stock. This may mean segregating aggressive horses or mules by tying some to the horse trailer. To avoid aggressive horse behavior, build no more than two adjoining corrals in a set. Construct multiple corral sets instead of additional adjoining corrals. Corral sets should be located far enough apart that penned stock can't reach each other.

Drawing and dimensions of a single corral set. In the drawing the text reads, 26 ft min., 2 ft min. (typical), 28 ft min. Corral set, 12 ft min., and Minimum cleared area, leveled, sloped to drain, and surfaced with suitable material.
Figure 10-59--The area required for a single corral set.

Photo of two horses that are in a single corral set.
Figure 10-60--Two horses relax in a single corral set. Water
buckets are tied to the lower rail.
--Courtesy of Janet Grove.

A single-party camp unit usually includes one corral set. Two corral sets are installed for a double-party camp unit, and three to four are supplied for a several-party camp unit. The number of corrals to include in a group unit depends on the anticipated use and the available space. If there are more than two corral sets, arrange them in a row. Separate corral sets by 10 to 12 feet (3 to 3.6 meters). If space is not available for multiple corral sets in a row, arrange them as shown in figure 10-61. Stock may be uncomfortable walking down the center aisle when there are unfamiliar stock on both sides, so don't install corral gates facing the aisle.

Drawing of four corral sets that aren't placed in a row. In the drawing the text reads, 2 ft min. (typical), 10 ft min. (typical), 12 ft min. (typical), Corral set, and Cleared area with suitable surface material.
Figure 10-61--Corral placement for a horse area with four corral sets
that are not placed in a row. Four corral sets hold eight animals.

Related Facilities--Arenas and Round Pens

Riders frequently use round pens (figure 10-62) to exercise a high-strung animal before a ride, and to cool an animal down afterward. Round pens also offer a safe place for stock to roll. Round pens are appropriate for areas with high levels of development but are not essential at trailheads or in campgrounds.

Photo of a round pen made out of portable panels. In the photo the text reads, Gap.
Figure 10-62--A round pen is convenient for exercising stock
before and after a ride. When setting up portable panels,
connectors need to hold the panels close together. Install the
connectors carefully--a large gap could trap a horse's leg.

Arenas are spacious fenced areas that provide a comfortable setting to train or exercise stock, teach riding lessons, or hold group events (figure 10-63). In many cities, recreationists use a trailhead much like a community park, and an arena may be appropriate.

Photo of a large outdoor arena with a person lunging thier horse.
Figure 10-63--Group events and equestrian training sessions
often are held in outdoor arenas.

Size and Location

The minimum diameter for round pens that allow riding is 60 feet (18.2 meters). If the pen is smaller, it impedes the natural movements of a horse or mule moving faster than a walk. Suggested dimensions for a multipurpose arena are 100 by 200 feet (30.5 by 61 meters). Round all arena corners (figure 10-64). This allows smooth riding when riders are working their stock, and just as with perimeter fences, prevents stock from being trapped in corners. Because activities in arenas and round pens are likely to excite nearby stock, locate these facilities in isolated but convenient locations. Choose sites with dry, welldrained soil.

Photo of an arena with rounded corners.
Figure 10-64--It is more comfortable to exercise
an animal in a round enclosure.


Arenas and round pens must be reasonably level with enough slope to allow drainage. Crown the subgrade in the center and incorporate a 1-percent slope from the centerline to all sides. If the surface is not crowned, slope it 2 percent from one side to the other. For an arena or round pen to be functional year-round, regular maintenance is required. The surface needs to be dragged weekly, monthly, or quarterly, depending on frequency of use. The surface--or footing material--should be replaced every 5 to 10 years.

Dust Prevention

Activity in arenas and round pens can create dust that is unhealthy for stock, riders, and other people in the area. When water is available, a sprinkler system can effectively control dust. Install sprinkler heads that meet plumbing pressure requirements and provide complete and even coverage (figure 10-65). For the safety of arena users, install sprinkler heads where arena users or stock won't trip over or run into them. Common placements include the top rail or ground level adjacent to posts. For convenience and efficiency, allow users to control the sprinklers with a timer. Alternatives to plumbed sprinklers include portable water sprayers and dust abatement products.

Photo of a sprinkler head on top of a fence rail at an outdoor arena.
Figure 10-65--Sprinkler heads can be
placed on the top fence rail. Another
popular location is at ground level.
Regardless of the location, the sprinkler
heads should be placed so they are not
hazardous to riders or stock.


In areas with high levels of development, lighting may be appropriate for arenas and round pens. To minimize light pollution and maximize energy efficiency, install a timer that allows users to control the lights when needed. Properly selected fixtures reduce environmental impacts and minimize the spread of light into surrounding areas. For best results, have a lighting consultant or engineer design the system.

Photo of two horses in a pasture, one is standing and the other is laying down.

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