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Trail Riding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pomponio Ranch

Show Jumping Trainer

San Gregorio, CA · On-site

Train show jumping horses aged three years and older, incorporating flat work, jumping, trail riding, and conditioning exercises. * Lunge horses to prepare them for training sessions and maintain ...

Aramark

$70K - $75K/yr

Guest Services & Trail Rides: * Coordinate and manage horseback riding tours, pony rides, and special equestrian events. * Foster a welcoming, friendly environment for all guests, ensuring high ...

Western Camps, Inc.

Lead Wrangler (Level 3)

Sanger, CA · On-site

Safely lead trail rides and guest riding experiences. * Recognize changes in horse behavior, soundness, or health. * Administer medications as directed. * Assist with evaluating horses for lessons ...

Vail Resorts

Certified Bike Instructor

Truckee, CA · On-site

$21 - $24.19/hr

... riding with our guests. Join us in creating a memorable experience for guests to want to return to ... Stay up to date on local trail and bike park trail knowledge. * Maintaining your own personal ...

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Trail Riding information

What is trail riding?

Trail riding is a recreational activity where individuals ride horses along designated trails, typically through forests, mountains, fields, or other natural landscapes. It is enjoyed by people of all skill levels and can involve short rides or multi-day excursions. Trail riding offers the opportunity to connect with nature, improve horsemanship skills, and enjoy the companionship of horses in a relaxed, scenic environment. Safety, respect for nature, and proper horse care are essential components of trail riding.

What is the difference between Trail Riding vs Horseback Riding?

AspectTrail RidingHorseback Riding
CertificationsOptional; experience recommendedOptional; experience recommended
Work EnvironmentOutdoor trails, natural settingsVaries; outdoor or indoor arenas
Industry UsageRecreational, tourism, equestrian sportsRecreational, competitive, therapeutic

Trail Riding specifically involves riding horses on outdoor trails and natural terrains, often for recreation or tourism. Horseback Riding is a broader term that includes various riding styles, including trail riding, arena riding, and competitive disciplines. While both require basic riding skills, trail riding emphasizes outdoor experience and navigation, whereas horseback riding can encompass a wider range of activities and environments.

What are some common challenges faced by trail riding guides, and how can they be addressed?

Trail riding guides often encounter challenges such as managing groups with varying riding abilities, ensuring safety on uneven terrain, and handling unexpected situations like spooked horses or sudden weather changes. To address these, guides should conduct thorough pre-ride briefings, match horses to riders' experience levels, and maintain strong communication throughout the ride. Developing quick problem-solving skills and staying calm under pressure are crucial, as is having proper first aid and emergency training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trail Riding Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trail Riding Guide, you need strong horsemanship, knowledge of trail safety, and often certifications in first aid or equine management. Familiarity with GPS devices, equestrian tack, and communication radios is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership are crucial soft skills for guiding riders and handling unexpected situations. These skills ensure the safety, enjoyment, and confidence of both riders and horses during trail excursions.
What are popular job titles related to Trail Riding jobs in California? For Trail Riding jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trail Riding jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Trail Riding jobs in California are:
Trail Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trail Riding job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Show Jumping Trainer

Show Jumping Trainer

Pomponio Ranch Stallions

San Gregorio, CA • On-site

$32 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Show Jumping Trainer - Pomponio Ranch North - San Gregorio, CA 94704
JOB OVERVIEW (Full-Time)
Pomponio Ranch North is seeking an experienced and strong jumping horse trainer. The main focus of this role is working with a team of trainers to train and ride young show jumping horses.
Please note: This is not a horse showing position. The role is focused on the daily training, fitness, and show preparation of horses at the home barn rather than competition or travel to horse shows.
Benefits for Full-Time Employees: Fuel Benefit, Cell Phone Reimbursement, Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision), 401k, and generous housing stipend (must secure own housing), fuel benefit, and cell phone reimbursement.
Pay Range:
$32-38/hr
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Train show jumping horses aged three years and older, incorporating flat work, jumping, trail riding, and conditioning exercises.
  • Lunge horses to prepare them for training sessions and maintain their fitness levels.
  • Maintain the fitness and well-being of all horses through regular riding, exercise, and fitness programs.
  • Work collaboratively with a team of experienced trainers to develop and train young show jumping horses, focusing on their training, fitness, and preparation for competition.
  • Occasionally groom horses for yourself before and after riding.
  • As needed, assist with therapy treatments, such as icing, wrapping, and other rehabilitative care as directed by the Equine Manager.
  • Occasionally handle daily horse care tasks such as turning horses out and bringing in, assisting with pasture rotations, and operating the horse walker.
  • Monitor equine health as needed, including assisting with injury treatment and bandaging. Communicate any health issues to the Equine Manager.

Qualifications/Requirements:
  • At least 10 years of experience working with equines, with a focus on riding and training young show jumping horses.
  • Experience competing successfully in 1.35m classes and above.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of related distances and the set up of grid work to enhance the training of young horses for the sport of show jumping.
  • Knowledge of safe work practices around horses with experience observing and reporting equine health and behavior.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Must be 18 years or older and authorized to work in the United States.
  • Physical requirements: ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, lift 80-100 lbs, and perform tasks requiring bending, kneeling, and climbing.
  • Strong commitment to teamwork, flexibility, and adhering to ranch policies and procedures.
  • Capable of riding 4 to 6 young horses on a daily basis.

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