Thankfully,
trekking across the countryside on horseback is a surefire
way to reconnect with those bygone times. Let your trusty
steed take you across the steppes of Mongolia, explore
the game reserves of Kenya, or practice your roping
skills on a Wyoming cattle drive. Wherever you go, you'll
have fabulous fresh-air views, completely unencumbered
by that steel-and-glass box--you know, the one that
gets us there quicker, but without all the fun.
Hold
on there, pardner.
You can’t just take a horse and ride off into the sunset
on your own. There’s a little more to it than that.
You’ll need to sign up with an outfitter who will not
only supply your horse and the tack your mount needs,
but will plan your route, provide all your food and
necessities, and guide you on your journey.
Major
Destinations
Luckily some of the best places to visit by horseback
are in the American West--especially the Rocky and Sierra
Nevada Mountains and the Pacific Northwest--where harsh,
remote terrain can best be seen from the saddle. Western
Europe is also wonderful by horseback because of the
profound sense of history and horsemanship in that part
of the world. And if you’re saddled up, you’ll find
such exotic destinations as Mongolia and Tibet a little
more accessible--and perhaps even more enjoyable.
Trail
Ride
If you are serious about taking an extended holiday
on horseback and want to see wilder, more remote corners
where access by car is either difficult or impossible,
you’ll want to sign up with an outfitter specializing
in equine tours. They can provide detailed itineraries
for both local and international horseback treks that
usually include camping or overnight stays along the
way.
Dude/Guest
Ranch
One-day trail rides generally use a resort or dude ranch
as home base and offer a day of trail riding, riding
lessons in an arena, and other non-horse-related activities.
If you’re an inexperienced rider looking for an introduction
to horses, or if you have travel companions who don’t
want to ride, a resort or dude ranch vacation is a good
choice.
Working
Ranch
For those with an affinity for the Wild West, working
ranch vacations afford the option of putting your equestrian
skills to work. Chasing livestock across the plains
gives you the chance to polish up on newfound roping
skills. Activities vary from ranch to ranch and season
to season, but will typically offer a balance of working
and pleasure riding.
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