I admit, when someone brings up that they ride "classical dressage" w/out being asked, I throw up a little. 99% of these people aren't even close to the level where 'classical' diverges from what's seen in the ring, but nevertheless have the idea that the trotting in circles that they do is somehow superior to when other people trot in circles. Whew. That feels better.
And to weigh in on the trail riding discussion, I can and do take my 3rd/4th level dressage horse on trails but there's a reason I only bring my ipod when I'm out of the arena. I need some entertainment. But then again the trails only get so exciting in OH so that may be it.