What we find is that we can handle the aerobic conditioning needs of the
horses but seriously fail in developing the proper muscles for real
climbs. We compromise by looking for steep banks, little "scramble"
hills, and the like. Sometimes we luck out with long, gentle slopes
that we can briskly walk - never underestimate the power of the walk.
This is the gait that develops the muscles, the trot is for balance and the
canter for aerobic conditioning.
If you do have access to fairly deep snow, that could be an excellent
chance to develop some of the muscle power you need. The exaggerated
lifting of the limbs, particularly in the hind end, will duplicate some
of the movements required to negotiate climbs.
I sigh at what I wish I could be doing right now, but as I look out my
window all I see is ice-encrusted snow. Ice-dancing with my horse....not
my sport of choice.
Good luck--
Diane & Miss B, Mr. T & Kasey (iced in & hating it)