trail rope

a guide rope on an aerostat.

Origin of trail rope

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

While watching his various manoeuvres, an object on the ground drew my attention—it was the trail-rope left by my horse.

The Hunters' Feast |Mayne Reid
This consists in allowing the end of the trail-rope to drag on the ground.

The New Gresham Encyclopedia. Vol. 1 Part 3 |Various
So deciding, he slips out of the saddle; and letting his horse out on the trail-rope, lays himself down.

The Death Shot |Mayne Reid
At sight of the bear he had run out to the end of his trail-rope, and was snorting and plunging with affright.

The War Trail |Mayne Reid

A 'trail-rope' is usually carried, with which the practice of 'trailing' may be effected over open country or the sea.

The New Gresham Encyclopedia. Vol. 1 Part 3 |Various

trail rope

another name for dragrope (def. 2)

a long rope formerly used for various military purposes, esp to allow a vehicle, horses, or men to pull a gun carriage