How To Skijor with a Horse: A Beginner’s Guide

Horse skijoring is a winter sport in which a horse tows a person on skis. This guide explains how it works, what gear is used and how to start safely.

Here’s how to skijor with a horse:

To skijor with a horse, you need solid skiing skills, a calm, fit horse with an experienced rider, a tow rope fixed to the saddle and a snow sport helmet. The skier holds the rope by hand and is never tied or clipped to it. Start slowly on flat, safe snow and learn at a clinic or with experienced people. Well-known races are held in Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and Montana.

This guide covers the basics. It does not replace hands-on instruction from experienced riders and skiers.

What Is Skijoring With Horses?

Skijoring, from the Norwegian word skikjøring, meaning “ski driving,” involves a person on skis pulled by a horse, dog, or motor vehicle.

As you might expect, skijoring with a horse is a winter sport that combines elements of skiing and horse riding.

Here’s a more specific definition:

In North American events, a horse and rider pull a skier along a course with gates, jumps and rings. The skier holds a tow rope and carries no poles. Skijor International says horses accelerate to over 40 mph on a straight track of roughly 900 feet. In some places in Europe, the horse has no rider and is guided by the skier.

Races are held every winter in North America and Europe. Leadville, Colorado, has held its race annually since 1949, and White Turf in St. Moritz, Switzerland, began in 1907.

Understanding the horse’s movements and responding appropriately are key elements of successful skijoring.

This TODAY news segment shows what horse skijoring looks like:

How To Skijor With a Horse (10 Steps Fully Explained)

Skijoring behind a horse is a fast sport with real injury risk for the skier, the rider and the horse. Beginners should start slowly, on flat ground, with experienced help.

Here are the ten steps to skijor with a horse.

1. Understand Skijoring Fundamentals

Before you begin skijoring, it’s crucial to first understand the fundamentals of this unique sport.

A horse skijoring team is usually two people and a horse: a rider who controls the horse and a skier who holds the rope. The skier needs solid skiing skills and the rider needs solid riding skills.

For instance, you should be comfortable with basic skiing maneuvers such as turning, stopping, and maintaining balance at different speeds.

Additionally, a basic understanding of horse behavior and communication will prove vital for successful skijoring.

For example, a good understanding of horse behavior will allow you to recognize signs of discomfort or distress in your horse during skijoring.

If the horse appears uneasy, it’s essential to stop and address any issues.

Skijoring is a partnership between the skier and the horse, and effective communication is key to a successful and enjoyable experience.

2. Choose the Right Horse

Choosing the right horse for skijoring is another critical step.

Not every horse is suitable for this sport. The ideal horse for skijoring should be obedient, comfortable pulling weight, and have a calm disposition. They should also be in good health, as skijoring can be physically demanding.

One trainer quoted by Horse & Rider starts a horse by trail riding with a long lead line so the horse gets used to having a rope around it.

However, even an experienced horse will need time to adjust to the feel of the skijoring equipment and the sensation of pulling a skier.

Always ensure that your horse is comfortable and well-treated to make the experience enjoyable for both of you.

Fitness matters. University of Minnesota Extension warns that deep, heavy or wet snow is hard work for an unfit horse and can cause tendon injuries. Ask a veterinarian whether the horse is fit for fast work on snow.

3. Select Suitable Skis

Selecting the right skis is crucial for a smooth and safe skijoring experience.

Cross-country skis are the usual choice for dog skijoring, not for horse skijoring. Behind a horse, competitors often use short skis. Event rules differ, so ask the clinic or event organizer what they require before buying.

Some events restrict very short skis. Skijor Bangor, for example, bans ski skates and ski blades.

4. Familiarize the Horse with the Equipment

The next step is to introduce the skijoring equipment to your horse.

This process should be done gradually, allowing the horse to sniff and see the equipment before anything is attached. By doing this, you can reduce anxiety and build trust between you and your horse.

For example, start by letting the horse examine the tow rope and skis.

You can lay them out near the horse or hold them so the horse can see and smell them.

Once the horse is calm around the gear, fix the tow rope to the saddle. Under Skijor USA rules, the rope attaches to the saddle horn or behind the saddle, where it must be secured to the saddle’s primary rigging rings. Keep watching how the horse reacts and go slowly.

5. Training the Horse and Skier

Training for skijoring involves both the horse and skier.

Start with basic commands such as “go”, “stop”, “turn”, and “steady”. Practice these commands while on the horse before incorporating the skis.

This helps the horse get used to the commands and the sound of your voice while moving.

For the skier, you should ensure you can maintain balance and control at different speeds and on varied terrain.

The skier holds the tow rope in the hands, as in water skiing, and carries no poles. Never tie, clip or wrap the rope to your body, so that you can let go at any moment.

6. Initial Skijoring Sessions

Your initial skijoring sessions should be short, simple, and slow.

This approach helps the horse adjust to the sensation of pulling weight and allows the skier to practice maintaining balance while being pulled.

The first few sessions could involve simply skiing in a straight line at a slow pace, allowing both the horse and skier to become comfortable with the setup.

Choose flat ground with even snow cover and plenty of clear space for the horse to slow down. Avoid ice, and take care in deep, heavy or wet snow.

Over time, as both the horse and skier become more confident, you can gradually start to introduce turns and increase the speed slightly.

However, always remember to keep these early sessions positive and stress-free for both the horse and skier.

7. Gradual Progression

Once you and your horse have mastered the basics, it’s time to start gradually increasing the speed and complexity of your skijoring sessions.

Jumps and gates belong on a purpose-built course. Race jumps can be two to seven feet high, so leave them for a clinic or an organized event with experienced supervision.

You could also try skijoring on different types of terrain to further challenge your skills and the horse’s adaptability.

8. Practice Regularly

Like any sport, regular practice is crucial to improving your skijoring skills.

Practice when snow and footing are safe, and keep sessions short so the horse is not overworked. Leadville, for example, limits each horse to two runs a day.

Regular practice doesn’t just involve skijoring sessions, though.

You should also be regularly practicing your skiing skills and working with your horse to ensure they are comfortable and well-trained for skijoring.

9. Participate in Skijoring Clinics

Skijoring clinics are a fantastic way to learn from experienced professionals and meet other people interested in the sport.

These clinics will provide you with an opportunity to improve your skijoring skills, learn new techniques, and get valuable feedback on your performance.

For instance, attending a skijoring clinic in your area might involve a day of guided instruction, followed by a chance to practice what you’ve learned.

These clinics are a great way to get hands-on training and advice from seasoned skijoring experts.

10. Safety First

Lastly, but most importantly, always prioritize safety when skijoring.

Skiers should wear an approved snow sport helmet, and eye protection is recommended. Riders should wear a helmet too. Check the rope, the saddle attachment and the ski bindings before every session.

Do not add a handle or loop to the tow rope. PRO Skijor rules ban handles, loops and knots. Protect the horse as well: leg boots guard against ski edges, and winter shoes with studs or borium add traction.

Remember, skijoring is a partnership between you and your horse, and the safety and wellbeing of both partners should always be the top priority.

As an example, if your horse seems uncomfortable or distressed, stop the session and address any issues before proceeding.

If you’re ever unsure about a skijoring maneuver or situation, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid potential risks.

Best Tips for Skijoring With Horses

These tips can help once the basics are in place.

These tips include:

• Know your horse’s comfort zone
• Use voice commands effectively
• Consider skijoring training
• Get creative with courses
• Build a skijoring community

Know Your Horse’s Comfort Zone

Each horse has its own comfort zone when it comes to speed and the types of obstacles they’re willing to tackle.

Pay close attention to your horse’s behavior and respect its comfort zone.

Use Voice Commands Effectively

Many riders use voice commands.

Develop a set of clear, distinct commands for starting, stopping, turning, and slowing down. Always use a calm and firm tone – shouting or sounding distressed can confuse or frighten your horse.

Consider Skijoring Specific Training

Groundwork helps a horse accept a rope and a moving skier behind it.

In North American skijoring a rider steers the horse, so the skier does not drive it from behind. Getting the horse used to a rope trailing and touching it comes first.

Get Creative with Your Courses

Once you and your horse are comfortable with the basics of skijoring, you can start to get more creative with your courses.

Gates and gentle turns add variety. Leave jumps to organized courses.

Remember to always introduce new elements gradually to ensure your horse is comfortable and confident.

Build a Skijoring Community

Skijoring is more fun when you have a community to share it with.

Consider starting a skijoring club in your area or joining an existing one. This can provide opportunities for group training sessions, friendly competitions, and the exchange of tips and advice.

Is Skijoring Safe for Horses?

Skijoring carries real risk for horses. In March 2016 a horse was euthanized after breaking a leg at the Leadville race, about a week after another was euthanized following a fall at a race in Minturn, Colorado, CBS Colorado reported. Organized events manage the risk with an on-site veterinarian, prepared footing, leg protection and traction shoes. A horse that is fit, properly shod for snow and introduced slowly is at lower risk, but the risk is never zero.

Skijoring is a sport that requires a significant amount of effort from the horse, so it’s important that the horse is in good health and fit enough to pull a skier.

Like any sport involving animals, there are potential risks.

Risks include:

• Injuries from falls
• Injuries from ill-fitting equipment
• Injuries from malfunctioning equipment
• Slips and tendon strain on ice or in deep, heavy or wet snow
• Cuts to the legs from ski or snowboard edges

However, these risks can be minimized by following proper training techniques, using appropriate and well-maintained equipment, and always prioritizing the horse’s wellbeing.

Cold alone is rarely the problem. University of Minnesota Extension says horses with access to shelter can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F. The bigger risks are footing and a sweaty horse left to chill, so cool the horse down and dry it after work.

Always check the temperature and weather conditions before going skijoring and avoid working your horse during extreme weather conditions.

Pick out the hooves before and after work. Balls of packed ice or snow form in hooves in winter and make slipping more likely. Snow pads and studs fitted to shoes can help.

What Equipment Do You Need To Skijor With a Horse?

The basic equipment needed for skijoring with a horse includes:

• Skis. Competitors often use short skis. Cross-country skis are the norm for dog skijoring, not horse skijoring. Check what the clinic or event requires.
• Saddle and Rope Attachment. In North American skijoring the horse is ridden, and the tow rope attaches to the saddle horn or behind the saddle, secured to the saddle’s rigging. The saddle must fit well and be in sound condition.
• Tow Rope. The skier holds this rope by hand. Race rules give a guide to size: Skijor USA allows up to 33 feet on straight courses, and Leadville requires a rope no longer than 30 feet, at least 1/2 inch thick, with no elastic properties.
• Helmet and Goggles. Skijor USA rules require an approved snow sport helmet for skiers and recommend eye protection. Riders should wear a helmet as well, and some events require it.
• Protective Padding. Additional protective gear, such as knee and elbow pads, can also be beneficial to protect the skier during falls.
• Horse Leg Boots and Winter Shoes. Bell boots and splint boots protect the horse’s legs, and shoes with studs or borium improve grip. Do not use a skijoring belt behind a horse. Belts and bungee lines are dog skijoring gear. A skier towed by a horse holds the rope and must be free to let go.

Best Places To Skijor With Horses

Most well-known horse skijoring venues are races. Watching one is a good first step.

Well-known places to see horse skijoring:

• Montana. The Whitefish Skijoring nonprofit has hosted skijoring events in the Flathead Valley since 2003. The 2026 event was canceled, so check the organizer’s site before planning a trip.
• Wyoming. Pinedale holds skijoring during its Winter Carnival in mid-February. Sheridan also hosts skijoring at the Sheridan County Fairgrounds.
• Utah. Skijoring Utah is held at the Wasatch County Events Center in Heber City. The 2026 event ran on January 16 and 17.
• Colorado. Leadville has held its ski joring race every year since 1949. Horses gallop down snow-packed Harrison Avenue in the historic downtown.

FAQ About Skijoring With a Horse

Common questions about working horses in snow:

Is It Safe to Lunge a Horse in Snow?

It can be, if the footing is good. University of Minnesota Extension advises avoiding icy areas and taking care in deep, heavy or wet snow, which can cause tendon injuries. Work on level ground with shallow, even snow and keep the pace slow.

It’s important to make sure the horse is comfortable and familiar with the snow before lunging.

Always start slow, let the horse explore and get used to the new footing. Do not force the horse into deep or icy snow, as this could cause injury.

Pick out the hooves first. Balls of packed snow or ice in the hooves increase the chance of slipping.

Is It Bad for Horses to Stand in Snow?

Healthy horses handle cold and snow well. University of Minnesota Extension says horses with access to shelter can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F.

Frostbite is not common in horses, according to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. The risk is greater in extreme cold, especially if a horse has no shelter from the wind. The tips of the ears are affected most often.

Give horses shelter from the wind, constant access to unfrozen water, and pick out their hooves daily, especially after heavy snow.

Conclusion: How To Skijor With a Horse

Remember, like any sport, mastering skijoring takes time, patience, and practice.

Progress is usually slow at first. Put the horse’s welfare and everyone’s safety ahead of speed.

Happy skijoring!

Read More:

• Is Skijoring Good for Dogs?
• How to Start Skijoring: Tips for Beginners
• Skijoring Dogs: Breeds and Equipment
• What Is a Ski Out?

Sources

Skijor USA (race rules and regulations)
PRO Skijor (rules and regulations)
Leadville Ski Joring (rules)
Visit Leadville Twin Lakes (ski joring)
WYO Winter Rodeo (skijoring rules)
Skijor Bangor (competitor information)
Skijor International (history)
Wikipedia (Skijoring)
University of Minnesota Extension (caring for your horse in the winter)
Western College of Veterinary Medicine (frostbite in horses)
CBS Colorado (Leadville ski joring accident, 2016)
Horse & Rider (skijoring with your horse)
Whitefish Skijoring
Visit Pinedale (skijoring)
Go Heber Valley (Skijoring Utah)

Reviewed October 2026. We corrected gear advice that applied to dog skijoring (cross-country skis, a belt and a bungee line), rewrote the horse safety section, updated the race locations and removed product suggestions, using Skijor USA, PRO Skijor and Leadville Ski Joring race rules and University of Minnesota Extension.