Verified answer

try taking the horse out before the trail ride. it will make you more confident and trusting of your horse. If your horse is around other horses, then she should behave like they are. If the other horses are just walking, then your horse would most likely walk with them. Its very unlikely that she'll just take off or start acting up if the other horses are being well behaved. You'll be fine, just try to relax :)

Don't go.

You're asking for a wreck by riding a horse that's not in your skill level.

You may call yourself "experienced rider" but if that were true, you'd know what to do with a horse that's got lousy training (bolts through the bit pressure).

This horse needs retraining and you don't need to be out in the woods finding out what it's like to be on a runaway horse.

Get a grip on reality. You're in over your head.

Do not put your friend you or your horse in danger maybe ride in the arena today? If you really want to go on the trail ask for a different horse.

If you don't have the skills and confidence to ride this horse then you're putting your safety and life at risk by attempting this ride, as well as that of the horse. I suggest you opt out until you become more experienced.

Go on your trail ride!

What to do if....

the horse starts bucking : Yell 'No!' and kick it to make it go forward. Use both reins. If he is moving forward, he cannot buck.

the horse takes off : Don't pull back on the reins. He will take the bit in his teeth and go faster. Instead, use both hands and pull on one rein as hard as you can to turn him in a circle. When he is turning in a circle, it's impossible for him to go fast.

the horse isn't obeying you : If your friend is a good trail rider, ask her to trade horses with you. It will be better for you.

If possible, I'd ask for a different horse. Or maybe switch with the one your friend has. If you haven't ridden horses before, you really should start with as calm and even-tempered a horse you can find.

The more freaked out you are, the more uptight the horse is going to be. If your friend is a real friend, he/she isn't going to put you on a dangerous horse. Don't panic and just stay calm. If you are relaxed the horse will be relaxed.

Ask your friend about what spooks the horse and what to watch out for. Or like the first answer at top said to ask to trade horses. DON'T FORGET YOUR HELMET! Happy Trails :D

if it is your friends horse then ask them about the horse. but if it is someone elses horse, you just need to act really calm around it. if you get on it just talk real nice and slow. try feeding it some grass and petting the horse. if it gets to know you, it wont hurt you. remember, be calm.

Ware a helmet & keeps your heels deep.

Best of luck!