What are the Rules for Horseback Riding on Colorado’s Roadways?

Horses have long been a beloved part of Colorado's history and culture. Although we're way beyond the days of the Wild West, many Coloradans continue to own these beautiful animals and enjoy riding them on mountainous trails and through scenic meadows.

Sometimes, Colorado residents also take their horses on urban adventures – quite literally hoofing it to a nearby town. In several Colorado counties, riders have even been seen casually taking their horse through a drive-thru or hitched up outside a local bar.

Saddling up to go to the city isn't super common, but there are rules for safely riding a horse on Colorado's streets to reach these destinations.

The laws regarding horseback riding on the roadways vary from state to state.

In Colorado, it's perfectly legal to ride a horse on city streets. According to Colorado state law, people leading or riding animals on or along any highway should ride or lead their animals on the left side. This is the side facing approaching traffic. The only scenario in which this rule does not apply is to persons driving herds of animals along a street or highway where the movement is permitted.

The rest of the rules of the road remain the same. For example, riders should acknowledge stop signs and lights, yield signs, and be extremely careful at intersections. In places with heavy traffic, it's often best to dismount and lead the horse across.

You don’t need a license to ride a horse like you do to drive a car.

It’s unlawful to ride a horse on a highway in Colorado if the rider is under the influence of alcohol, any controlled substance, or any stupefying drug. Doing so is considered a class B violation and the rider is subject to a fine of up to $100.

Drivers sharing the road with people on horseback should always slow down and move over when passing riders. Motorists should also avoid making any sudden noises or movements that might spook the animal. Under Colorado’s law, if the driver of a motor vehicle violates the traffic code in any way with respect to a horse, the driver of the vehicle can be fined. This includes actions like unsafe passing, following too closely, or failure to yield the right of way.