Re: Hill Rule of Thumb Question...

Dan wrote: 
Question: Would it be safe to assume a reasonably fit horse with a
rider (<20% horse weight) up can climb and descend any grade a
reasonably fit human can handle at a walk (NOT scrambing holding onto
roots, rock ledges, etc)?


Yes, assuming the rider was competent.

I'd say the upper limit for the "average" horse and rider is about 30 degrees going up, assuming firm, dry footing. Going down the upper limit might be close 45 degrees, with the horse practically sitting down.

My horses, and I would have to say the majority of horses that I've ridden on trails, would eyeball the slope and want to canter up if it was on the steep side.

- Jim
.

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