1. Approach the horse from the left side. This is the traditional way to approach a horse, and it helps to avoid spooking the horse.
2. Hold the reins in your left hand. The reins should be about six feet long, and they should be held in a loose coil in your left hand.
3. Stand next to the horse's shoulder. Your feet should be about shoulder-width apart, and your body should be facing the horse's head.
4. Place your left foot in the stirrup. The stirrup should be at about knee height. Once your foot is in the stirrup, bend your left knee and bring your left leg up.
5. Swing your right leg over the horse's back. Keep your right leg straight and your body in an upright position.
6. Sit down in the saddle. Once your right leg is over the horse's back, lower your body down into the saddle. Keep your weight centered in the saddle, and avoid leaning too far forward or back.
7. Adjust your stirrups. The stirrups should be about three to four inches shorter than your leg length. If the stirrups are too long, you will not be able to reach the pedals effectively. If the stirrups are too short, you will not be able to stand up in the saddle.
8. Hold the reins with both hands. Once you are seated in the saddle, take the reins in both hands. Hold the reins with a light grip, and keep them about ten inches apart.
9. Give the horse a gentle kick with your heels. This will tell the horse to walk forward.
Be sure to practice getting on and off a horse in a safe, controlled environment before you try to do it out on the trail. With a little practice, you will be able to mount and dismount your horse with confidence and ease.