Unicorn Trails has many remote and adventurous destinations throughout the world, but this one tops the charts for diverse scenery, unique culture, and local hospitality.

Panama City

My friend, Ali, and I spend a night in Panama City to enjoy a traditional Panamanian meal, including yucca and plantains, in the brightly decorated Sabroso restaurant on the Amador causeway. Colorfully lit buses drive the road beside the park where families walk enjoying the city lights reflecting in the water.

Lunch in El Valle, a town constructed in the middle of an extinct volcano, breaks up our five-hour drive to Santa Fe. We arrive just in time for dinner at Hotel Anachoreo and join our friends, Dawn and Tracy, for homemade fish soup, with fresh herbs from the hotels incredible garden.

Our host, Lizzie, a fit-looking young woman originally from Zimbabwe, arrives to introduce herself and let us know the plan for the morning.

“My farm is on the river, which isn’t always passable because of the rain, so the horses will be transported by road—the long way around—to a friend’s farm, where we’ll begin,” she says.

While handing out cushy saddle seat covers and saddle bags, she reminds us to pack our bathing suits and towels.

Meeting the Horses

After a breakfast of fresh fruit, eggs, crepes and bacon, we hop in Lizzie’s Jeep to a small corral where her helper, Jose, is just finishing tacking up the horses.

Ali is given Pali, a small palomino mare; Dawn is presented with Luca, a tall brown-and-white Paint Horse; and Tracy has a cute blue roan named Chombin.

Jose and Lizzie adjust the stirrups and I mount up on Capitan, a gaited chestnut Criollo. The western saddle is extremely comfortable.

“They are locally made,” Lizzy tells me. Some of the horses are also bitless, which is always a pleasant surprise.

Lizzie leads the way on a stallion named Calypso.

“He hasn’t been ridden in a while,” she tells us. “We’ll see what happens.”

Jose takes up the rear on a mule named Mr. Red, ponying Little Dude, a small gray Criollo gelding. Kids come out to greet us.

Calypso, eager to run uphill, takes the lead on a wonderful gallop up the mountain road. Resting at Cerro Tute, historically known as a rebel hideout, we tie the horses to a fence for a snack and enjoy the views of the small town of Santa Fe, population approximately 3,500.

Petroglyphs and Swimming

After crossing the peak, the pine trees turn into cactus plants and the dirt road turns to clay—from forest to desert just like that! We zig-zag through an array of round rocks displaying petroglyphs (see pg. 72). The wind cools us from the hot sun, but it’s so strong that it blows the sun brim off my helmet. Even Ali’s special brim with Velcro and hooks can’t fight it.

We cross a large river, tie the horses to trees and untack them.

“Time for a swim,” Lizzy announces.

Ali takes Pali right in, deep enough to swim. I hop on Capitan and he is eager to cool off. The current is strong, but the horses plunge through. It’s so much fun I can feel my smile growing from ear to ear the deeper I get. The water is just right—refreshing but not too cold.

Leaving the horses behind for Jose to take home, we head into town for a delightful late lunch at a local restaurant and have some yummy ginger chicken. We stop at a store where I purchase a wide-brim hat for under my helmet, and the others find shoes for swimming.

A vivid rainbow can be seen from our hotel, where we enjoy fresh cheese from the cheese shop before dinner.

A Steep Climb to the Cows

A local farmer, Wilson, has invited us to explore his land. We enjoy coffee and homemade muffins in his barn the next morning before heading out. This is the first time Lizzie has taken him up on his offer, and he seems excited to have us.

Ali has decided to give the mule, Mr. Red, a try, and he turns out to be a good choice for the narrow, rocky paths clinging to the hillside. We dismount and follow Wilson to a hidden cave, complete with bats and human bones.

Steep climbs that lead to incredible vistas and long canters on the sandy footing are a treat. After a rest in the shade, Jose helps Wilson round up his cows, and we help herd them back to the ranch where a homemade picnic awaits us.

Dawn’s Paint Horse, Luca, is the perfect mount to practice roping cows while Wilson and Jose brand calves. What a day!

Tropical Forest Waterfall

Dawn’s sister, Danialle, has finally arrived (delayed due to passport issues), and she joins us for the rest of the week. Just when you think it can’t get any better, Lizzie keeps throwing surprises at us.

We begin to explore the tropical forests of the Santa Fe National Park, a 290-square mile conservation area. Surrounded by hanging vines and tropical plants, a very steep climb takes us to a stunning waterfall, where we can jump in to cool off and swim around in its pools.

The newly purchased shoes for swimming come in handy. The current is strong in parts, so we have to be careful. At the end of a great ride we cross the river, dismount and enjoy a wonderful riverside BBQ, finished off with Ali’s special grilled pineapple.

A freshly graded red dirt road on the side of a mountain allows for long gallops. At the top, we rest and take in the views, trying to spot our hotel below.

Organic Farm & Hanging Bridge

Deep in the forest, we ride to an organic farm for lunch, of which 90 percent of the ingredients are home-grown. The owner gives us a demonstration of how coffee is made. Everyone we meet is super friendly and accommodating.

The clouds continue to linger in the next valley, and we can feel the mist in the air, but the rain subsides for the entire week. Everyone has been happy with their mounts. Nothing seems to faze them: not the horses running in pastures next to us, cows coming to check us out, trucks on the road, or barking dogs.

They are put to the test when we have to cross a long, skinny hanging bridge hovering above the river. We dismount and walk them across. I am shaking in my boots, but Capitan doesn’t flinch. These horses are amazing—even at an old telephone booth, Dawn coaxes Luca right up to grab the receiver.

Goodbyes & The Canopy Tower

Our last ride finishes at Lizzie’s farm, where we untack the horses and help Jose bathe them and turn them out. It is with sweet sorrow that we say goodbye to the horses, the farm, Wilson, Lizzie and Jose. The experience has been incredibly unique.

Ali and I finish the trip with a breakfast tour of The Canopy Tower, just outside of Panama City, where we get to watch various tropical birds and monkeys at the top of the rain forest. A nature walk rewards us with an anteater sighting, a first for me.

Panama has never been a destination at the top of my list, but Unicorn Trails Santa Fe Jungle Ride with Horseback Panama touched my heart. The horses, the people, the locally grown food, and the stunning scenery definitely won me over.

For more on the Santa Fe Jungle Ride, visit here.

Other Horseback Riding Destinations
◆ Top 10 International Horseback Riding Destinations
◆ The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch
◆ Riding Through Sicily
◆ Riding Camargue Horses in France

This article about a trail ride in Panama appeared in the August 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post A Trail Ride in Panama appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

The steep uphill gravel road to the ranch is in rough shape.

“It’s only open from June to October,” Curt says while navigating the large ruts. “Hopefully it will be graded by next week when you head out.”

Passing pine forests and rolling green hills, we arrive at a reservoir reflecting the snowcapped mountains before entering the gates of Spear-O-Wigwam, which sport a 100th anniversary banner on the fence.

Founded in 1923 by Willis Spear, a local rancher, the 17-acre property with seven cabins continues its dude ranch legacy through investors with local ties.

The fire crackles in the lounge next to the dining area, where I enjoy a meal of lasagna and Caesar salad with some of the other other guests, here for day rides or kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. In my quaint riverside cabin, I organize my gear for tomorrow’s pack trip.

Day 1

A moose, not bothered by my presence, wanders the grounds as I head for breakfast, a smorgasbord of fruit, quiche, pancakes and sausage. Our host, Mark Patterson of Cross Country Equine, introduces me to Gabby and Lydia, who will join me and returning guest Joleen on the pack ride.

As instructed, we arrive at the main corral with our bags where Pence, Claude and Pistol stand quietly as Mark meticulously weighs and loads every piece before placing it in their packs, checking constantly for even distribution.

“It’s key to not having to stop on the trail to fix anything,” he declares.

Mark chooses Canyon, a sturdy draft cross, for me, and two Norwegian Fjord crosses, Princess and Babydoll, for Lydia and Gabby. Joleen is given her favorite horse from last year’s ride, Chester, while Mark leads the pack on Swede (both their mounts are Norwegian Fjords).

We head out of the corral, crossing the first creek of many, one with a spectacular backdrop of mountains. Green meadows full of colorful wildflowers lead us to an uphill path in the woods. Canyon carefully chooses his way through the narrow, rocky parts.

“Let the horses pick their way, and make sure they have forward momentum, especially on the steep parts,” Mark advises. “It’s harder for them to get their legs in front of them if they slip when going uphill.”

At 9,760 feet, the tree line opens to breathtaking views of Geneva Pass and Geneva Lake before arriving at the camp at Crystal Lake, where rocky cliffs reflect on the water’s surface.

We untack the horses and turn them out for a well-deserved roll and to graze in the fenced-in area surrounding camp. Several teepees, including one for cooking, spot the grounds. Mark unpacks the bags and I change into my bathing suit for a quick dip in the chilly yet refreshing water.

After a scrumptious steak dinner, I drift off to sleep on the cot in my teepee to the sound of the melting snow cascading over the rocks into the lake.

Day 2

The cliffs glow in the morning light behind the horses grazing at the lake shore.

A full day at camp allows for exploration deeper into the Cloud Peak Wilderness area, an expanse of 295 square miles in the Bighorn Mountain Range, which has been protected by the Wyoming Wilderness act since 1984.

Mark trims branches from fallen trees on the trail that climbs to spectacular views. The Solitude loop takes us to the high country of remote lakes, cascading waterfalls, fast-running streams and snow still lingering in the mountains crevices.

The shore of Cliff Lake across from its jagged rock edges provides a peaceful lunch stop. On the way back to camp, we cool off the horses in the deep water of a small lake, sometimes belly deep. I take advantage of the clear night sky to watch the shooting stars before heading to my teepee for the night.

Day 3

In the early morning we help take down camp, as it will be the last trip here this season.

“The pasture is pretty much done,” Mark says. “And with any luck, the snow has melted enough to head to Beaver Creek camp for the next pack trip.”

Mark diligently weighs each box and bag before loading up the pack horses.

With total confidence in Canyon, I’m now relaxed over the steep, rocky terrain and can simply enjoy the views of the Bighorn Mountains against the blue sky. We allow the horses to drink at each of the numerous creek crossings before arriving at the familiar green meadow just before the ranch.

At Spear-O-Wigwam, we have time to untack, say our goodbyes and head into Sheridan for the rodeo’s opening night—I truly feel like a cowgirl now!

To learn more, visit @crosscountryequine on Instagram or go to spearowigwam.com.

This article about a pack ride in Wyoming appeared in the August 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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After a swim in the pool and a soak in the hot tub, I joined guests in the main lodge for their final social gathering and outdoor barbecue. The stories of their week’s riding adventures were abundant, and everyone seemed eager to return, one on her sixth visit. I spent the next few days learning the secret to The Hideout’s success.

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch History

In 1995, David Flitner and Paula De Cabooter-Flitner started construction of the guest ranch, building the main lodge, cabins, arena, and barn on a prime riverfront location of the property, offering unobstructed views of the Big Horn Mountains.

Initially named after a local historical ranch, Trapper Creek Guest Ranch, it was rebranded as Hideout Adventures, Inc. Peter De Cabooter, Paula’s nephew, arrived from Belgium in 2006 to help, and a year later was joined by his wife Marijn and their twin boys.

The reins were eventually handed over to Peter, and The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch began its growth.

Year-Round Focus

Taking over full ownership in 2017, Peter began the transition from a seasonal three or four months per year operation into a more sustainable year-round business. His corporate experience is key to The Hideout’s success today.

“In order to keep a reliable crew and create a culture, we needed to offer more year-round jobs for our staff,” he says.

Peter follows the “3 C Culture” of character, conduct and competence.

“One can train for competence, but not for character and conduct,” he explains. “And this is even harder in a seasonal environment.”

Having the right crew focusing on the principles of their authentic hospitality—taking care of its people, guests, and horses—is of the utmost importance, as is their branded Authentic Horsemanship.

Authentic Horsemanship

When Marijn first arrived at the ranch, she was far from a cowgirl. Mileage in the saddle and exposure to many horse trainers, including Yvet Blokesch of Featherlite Academy in the Netherlands and Parelli trainers Farrah Green and Amy Bowers, Marijn gained well-rounded horsemanship skills.

Marijn was introduced to liberty work by Kirsten Brein, trainee of Lorenzo the Flying Frenchman, and now shares her knowledge with interested guests. From various training methods, The Hideout shaped their own branded Authentic Horsemanship based on a trusting relationship through communication, respect and understanding.

Peter describes it as “An ethical, respectful, safe, enjoyable and professional approach, getting the best out of both horse and rider.”

The Horses and Trails

I could sense the Authentic Horsemanship methodology from the saddle while on one of their many horses. With over 650,000 acres to explore and elevations ranging from 4,200 to 13,100 feet, there are a broad range of climates and plenty of biodiversity within riding distance of the ranch.

We chose the cooler canyon ride to escape the August heat. I would be riding with Peter and Marijn’s son Victor, as well as Nina Reuter, a German woman who was originally a Hideout guest, but who left a corporate life in New York to join the Hideout crew.

We crossed rushing rivers surrounded by lush greenery in the red rock canyons, cantered on sandy footing, and galloped past the red Needle Rock towering above us. A short trailer ride brought us to the nearby bentonite clay-painted hills.

My mount, a palomino Quarter Horse named Sheridan, was a true gem. Being well tuned in neck reining, there was minimal rein contact needed, and gaits changed simply from my seat.

“What a wonderful treat for a trail horse,” I said to Nina.

“Yes,” she replied. “The key is to train the guests how to ride our horses.”

Orientation and Safety Talk

All guests, from beginner to advanced riders, participate in an extensive safety orientation at the start of the week, then mount up for an ability assessment.

I watched guests ranging in ages from 11 to 75 walk in a circle and stop, trot along the rail, and depending on their self-proclaimed ability, perform a few canter strides. Instructed to use only their seat for balance, some experienced difficulties, but Marijn reassured improvement by week’s end. It was a safe yet revealing way to split into groups before hitting the trails.

Returning later with big grins, everyone had fun and felt comfortable. Catering rides to their guests’ preference on length, pace, and terrain, the wranglers could now make informed decisions on who was capable of what.

The Whole Package

In my short visit, I concluded that what brings guests back repeatedly to The Hideout is their attention to detail, consistency, and authenticity. Their hospitality and horsemanship benefits everyone, especially the horses, creating a perfect balance.

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch in Shell, Wyo., ticks all the boxes necessary for a comfortable adventure on safe horses in spectacularly diverse scenery. I applaud them!

Learn more about a visit to The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch at thehideout.com.

This article appeared in the April 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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The Unicorn Trails Coast to Coast ride takes you into the heart of the Italian island of Sicily, from the northern town of Cefalù to the ancient ruins of Agrigento in the south. On our excursion, we begin by meeting our guide Luciano and his wrangler Paola in Cefalù, where they take us on a walking tour of the quaint village perched on an oceanside cliff.

We dip our toes into the water of the medieval wash house, tour the Duomo di Cefalù (Cefalù Cathedral), peruse the artisan shops, and cool down with a gelato cone.

Next, we drive what seems uphill the whole way to Luogo Marchese, where Luciano’s 26 horses reside. A multiple-course meal is followed by a quick swim in the pool before retiring for the night.

Day One

The valley below the 80-hectare (almost 200-acre) ranch illuminates with the rising sun. Luciano’s small stable, nestled on the side of a mountain, boasts an ocean view. The herd is primarily Sicilian horses, once a mix of African and Asian breeds, now more refined with Andalusian and Thoroughbred bloodlines.

Luciano chooses Aron, a mid-sized Sicilian gelding for me, and a tall, long-legged Andalusian mix named Romeo for my travel mate, Anne.

As we descend into the countryside, the blue sea gradually disappears behind us. Apricots and figs are easily picked from trees that border the olive and grape farms. Sheep and cattle bells rhythmically chime from pastures as we climb to a large stone water basin where the horses drink.

A forest of 80-year-old cork trees leads us to the village of Castelbuono, where Luciano’s assistant, Gimmy, has our picnic lunch waiting. A two-hour break allows the hottest part of the day to pass before we continue through the village, where a lively soccer game is taking place.

At Casale Villa Rainò, a family-run 1830s restored stone villa near the town of Gangi, we enjoy a multi-course meal and a swim in the pool under the stars.

Day Two

We awake to spectacular panoramic views of Mount Etna and the Madonie Mountains from our balcony.

As we ride toward the town of Gangi, hailed as the most beautiful village in Italy, we pass family gardens of tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and squash, while snacking on ripe almonds, blackberries and crab apples hanging from reachable branches.

A gray mare gallops towards us for a visit. Luciano quickly dismounts to catch the horse for her 70-year-old owner, who is walking toward us with two canes.

“He still rides the mare on his small cow farm,” Luciano tells us.

Large trees at an ancient stone monastery overlooking Gangi provide shade for our picnic lunch. Grain for the horses is supplied in sacks that hang over their heads, like muzzles.

The route includes a brief ride on a busy road, but the horses remain calm as tour buses, trucks and tractors pass. A massive highway bridge towers above us as we follow the Imera River Valley to a dirt road where we enjoy a wonderfully long canter through a forest of eucalyptus trees.

Arriving at Feudo Tudia Villa, a formerly abandoned, now-restored farmhouse in the sparsely populated village of Resuttano, we dismount and leave our horses in Gimmy’s care. He joins us later for a home cooked, multi-course meal.

Day Three

As we leave the village of Resuttanno the next day, a small lake in a valley spotted with olive trees looks like an Italian painting as we clip clop over stone Roman roads and bridges.

We picnic and nap in the shade of the Marianopoli train station before heading out in the afternoon. A colorful sunset leads us to Mappa, a delightful villa in Mussomeli, where I join others for a glass of wine overlooking the pool and valley below.

We’re the only ones in the villa, making us feel like the royalty that once stayed here. Fall is the down time for tourism on the island, and Luciano tells me that he created his progressive rides “to keep the horses busy in the off season and help out the family-owned villas in the rural areas.”

Day Four

The fields are brown and dry due to a recent drought, and crossing a large, mud-cracked field feels like riding on the moon.

The ancient city of Sutera at the base of Monte San Paolino—a giant monolithic rock—comes into view. An elevator to the monastery was once built to attract tourists to the area, but unfortunately never opened. It’s a hot day, and as we lunch just outside the village, Luciano sprays us with small water pistols.

The Monte Conca nature reserve provides shady forests and picturesque river crossings before we arrive at the lovely family-run, 8-hectare (20-acre) Villa Casale Leto.

The Leto family purchased the property in 1990, and after years of renovations and vine planting, opened to the public in 2008. We taste their Nero D’Avola and Chardonnay wines with a delicious home-cooked meal.

Day Five

The sunrise reflects on the pool, and we enjoy a morning swim before breakfast.

There are threats of rain on our second-to-last day in the saddle, but it holds out, allowing for lovely long canters on dirt roads. All nine of us are extremely happy with our mounts, who have carried us approximately 35 km (22 miles) each day.

Views of endless hills, harvested wheat fields, and valleys of olive and grape orchards take us to the Tower of Anjou, an ancient aristocratic mansion from the 13th century. We arrive early to our villa in Aragona, allowing time for a swim. The panoramic views of the countryside from our terrace are spectacular.

Day Six

Our last day brings us to the ancient city of Agrigento, founded in 581 B.C. by Greek colonists, as we clip clop through the narrow passageways on the cobblestone streets.

Residents stand in their doorways and lean out their windows to wave at us. We feel the breeze of the south coastal waters as we ride past the Valley of the Temples.

Arriving at Amici del Cavallo, a small farm that takes tourists on a ride to the ancient ruins, we dismount and are welcomed with a barbecue lunch.

The trailers soon arrive, and with heavy hearts, we say goodbye to our horses. The setting sun lights up the ancient ruins as we tour the ruins in the Valley of the Temples.

It was a trip like no other, and after an exquisite meal in a local seafood restaurant in Agrigento with Luciano and Paola, we say our goodbyes to each other, but know that we will ride together again.

We’re thankful for Luciano, Paola and Gimmy’s endless hospitality, the families who welcomed us into their villas, and the wonderful Sicilian horses who made this trip unforgettable.

This article about riding horseback through Sicily appeared in the June 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Enchantment Equitreks has a mission, and that is to change the stereotype of rescue horses by making them into reliable trail horses—a viable asset to an equestrian business, ultimately leading them to their forever home as safe equine partners.

According to Enchantment Equitreks co-owners Mel Graham and her daughter, Justyn Vogel, most rescue horses are simply misunderstood. They may have been through physical or mental trauma, but with patience, time and training based on pressure and release methods, these horses can find their purpose again.

Horse rescue facilities all over the world rely on volunteers and fundraising to keep them going financially, but many struggle to keep the horses fed and sheltered. They often lack access to good trainers who can take the time to work with the horses to transition them into rideable mounts safe enough for the average rider.

“Horses need a job,” says Graham. “They don’t really want to be just hanging out in the shelter.”

This is where Enchantment Equitreks’ mission comes in.

Since the business began in 2012, the mother-daughter duo—both airline hostesses and equestrians from a Quarter Horse background—have put countless rescue horses through their training program and now nearly all of their clients’ mounts are adopted.

What surprised me when joining them on one of their rides this past August was the patience, willingness and calmness of their entire string. Every horse stood quietly and calmly as guests groomed, tacked and mounted up.

On days that required trailering, they all loaded with ease, eager to do their job. Riding in primarily bitless bridles, not one of them put a foot wrong. Whether crossing mountainous terrain or galloping through a sandy arroyo, every client had a smile on their face.

The Horses of Enchanted Equitreks

Enchanted Equitreks receives new members of their equine family from two local New Mexico facilities, Walkin N Circles and The Horse Shelter. Depending on the horse, some can be ready for guests after as little as three months of training.

“Some horses take longer to settle and feel at ease with people,” explains Vogel. “It all depends on what they have experienced in the past.”

Once a horse becomes a part the working string, Enchantment Equitreks’ mission doesn’t stop there. Their ultimate goal is to find these horses a home where they will be loved and cared for. This makes room for more horses at Enchantment Equitreks that need the TLC and training to reintegrate into the working world.

EquiYoga

To further the improvement of horses’ lives, Vogel helps to promote EquiYoga, a form of breathing, balance and neutrality that increases your connection with the horse through certain pressure points, improving communication. On their Yoga Retreat rides, you can transfer what you learn on the yoga mat to the saddle.

I had the privilege of joining in a few yoga classes, concentrating on seat bone pressure for speed control, equal foot pressure in the stirrups for optimum balance, and a calm neutral space through breathing. Yoga sessions are held in a screened tent at the back of the property. Morning sessions wake up your body with the warmth of the sun, and evening classes before bed are often done by the light of the moon.

Vogel learned about EquiYoga from a friend and fellow rescue volunteer who studied with Marty Whittle, the founder of the process. From there, she developed her own curriculum.

“We have to remember that ultimately horses are our partners, and we have to show up to this partnership as our best selves,” she says. “EquiYoga gives you the tools and techniques needed to effectively communicate with your horse and mentally prepare to sit in the saddle.”

If you’re not into yoga, you can try a Cowboy Fun Week, taking in rodeos and the state fair. If the indigenous culture is more up your alley, the Native Traditions Ride incorporates a pow wow or the Indian market.

Something for Everyone at Enchantment Equitreks

Enchantment Equitreks uses the diverse ecology of New Mexico to bring you to different scenery every day. On their multi-day rides, you might find yourself climbing up the steep rocky terrain of the Sandia region to peer over a cliff at spectacular rock formations one day, cantering through meadows and sandy arroyos another, and finish up by watching the balloon festival from the saddle across the river.

Adventurous excursions for intermediate and advanced riders take place from late April to late October, and Enchantment Equitreks pride themselves in only taking small groups. This allows for more attention from the wranglers, long gallops, and a more intimate vacation.

The guest house on the property is fully equipped, but home-cooked, healthy meals are provided in the main house. Many of the fruits and vegetables come from their garden, fresh eggs are collected from their chicken pen daily, and the entire property is geared toward sustainability. On hot days, you can take a dip in the pool or relax at night under the stars with a glass of wine in the hot tub.

If you are on a budget, the ranch offers a 50 percent discount for those willing to turn your vacation into a working one. You’ll learn the ropes by helping to groom, tack up and load horses in the trailer, clean girths and pads upon return, and help around the ranch. There is only one slot per ride, however, and they do book up quickly.

These ladies pour their heart and soul into an operation that focuses on improving the lives of forgotten equines and brings positive energy and joy to every client that ventures onto their property. It was a wonderful feeling to go on a riding adventure and be on the back of a horse that might otherwise be wandering the paddocks of a horse shelter. Every client in a saddle is a stepping stone to the horse’s future.

Happy trails wherever you find yourself in the saddle!

To learn more, visit enchantmentequitreks.com or on Facebook and Instagram @EnchantmentEquitreks.

This article about Enchantment Equitreks appeared in the January/February 2023 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Obvious signs such as biting, bucking suddenly, not wanting to be saddled, reluctance to go forward under saddle, or short strides we can often interpret, but there are times when we have to dig a little deeper and keep our spidey senses alert for other signs of pain.

Case Studies

My three horses have all communicated pain to me in different ways, some obvious and others harder to detect. Bailey Girl, my American Paint Horse mare, is extremely thin-skinned—a field of long grass tickles her belly and makes her uneasy.

She is typically girthy, but at one point she tried to bite me when doing up her girth. In addition, when I lifted her front legs to pull the skin out from under the girth, she reared.

I touched her girth area, she was fine; ran my fingers down her back, no response. Was she just being cranky? Did she not want to be ridden, and if so, why?

An appointment with my equine massage therapist revealed she had sore shoulders, a place I didn’t even think to look. Her saddle was custom made for her, but as she aged, her shape changed. But arthritis in her knees was the No. 1 culprit.

The diagnosis from my equine masseuse, in consultation with the veterinarian:

Due to Bailey Girl’s arthritis in her knees, and lack of flexion in them, she has to lift more from the shoulders (trapezius and rhomboids) to clear the ground with her feet. This resulted in very tight shoulders and lower neck, which in turn caused rearing when the front feet were picked up too high and the knees flexed too much.

My Appaloosa gelding, Bailey Boy (yes, I ended up with two horses named Bailey), had a completely different way of communicating pain. On a typical day on the trails, Bailey wouldn’t mind if the herd was quite a distance ahead of him. Yet all of a sudden, he began to get anxious when they were more than three horse lengths away.

It turns out he was very sore in the spine and neck, an injury caused by a previous trailer accident. Now when he starts to worry about being with the herd out on a trail, I know it is time for his massage and/or chiropractic appointment, depending on the severity of the soreness.

Then there’s my big-boned guy Major, a Paint/Belgian-cross. Nothing seemed to bother him. He is thick-skinned and never cranky as long as his belly is full.

One day while being groomed, he began to nip or head-butt me whenever I walked in front of his chest area. I knew he was trying to tell me something, but I couldn’t figure it out.
After a visit from the massage therapist, it was revealed that he was sore in the sternum area. We had recently started him on small cavalletti training and cross-rails, which was causing muscle strain in that area.

The diagnosis from my equine masseuse, in consultation with the veterinarian:
Major’s snappiness around his sternum originated from the pectoralis and belly muscles being torn slightly from jumping. Due to his size and conformation, these muscles were over-taxed when he stretched out to clear the jumps.

A follow up with my equine chiropractor revealed the following:

Musculoskeletal variations, spinal misalignments. Tight bilateral pectorals. Decreased lateral flexion of the cervical spine right. Sternocostal ribs restricted left 4 and right 3.

Communicating Pain Under Saddle

This made me think about how many other ways horses communicate pain. Signs under saddle, like tail swishing, head tossing, skin twitching, hesitating or refusing fences, trouble bending in one direction, or trouble picking up or holding a lead can be construed as stubbornness, but perhaps we need to slow down and take a deeper look.

Linda Hauck, a lifelong horse woman and designer of the patented Spursuader Spur and Tapestry Comfort Girth, took pain in horses seriously.

“I invented the products to make horses more comfortable when being ridden,” she says. “They are ‘talking’ all the time about what we do with them and what we put on them. I thought about how to make the spur kinder but still effective, and how to make the girth more comfortable than a tight, leather belt so it could breathe with the horse but hold the saddle on securely.

“When a horse dances at the cross-ties or mounting block, he is anticipating pain,” Hauck continues. “Holding his head and neck higher than usual helps with the discomfort. Choppy, uneven movement throughout the ride, holding their breath at a canter, and having difficulty picking up a lead are all ways of communicating pain or discomfort. Rushing is often a key that they are running away from the discomfort of a saddle or girth.”

Keeping an Eye Out for Horses Communicating Pain

When not under saddle, horses can communicate pain by pacing, pawing, rolling or kicking at their sides, but less obvious signals, such as an unusual posture, depressed facial expression, pinched nostrils, sunken eyes or blinking or staring at a particular area can all be signs of pain.

In order to realize your horse’s early attempts to communicate pain, it’s a good idea to study his daily activity and normal routine. If your horse stops rolling in his favorite dirt pile, stands in the paddock with a lowered head, and decreases his normal activity, these can all be early signs of discomfort.

Go online for exercises to help sore or girthy horses with a certified neuromovement trainer at www.horseillustrated.com/working-with-pain.

This article about how horses communicate pain appeared in the July 2021 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post How Horses Communicate Pain appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Here are a few simple tips for taking pet photos that will elevate your results. These tools can be used by all levels of photographers with any type of equipment, from phone cameras to mirrorless or professional DSLR cameras.

Reviewing Your Pet Photos

Modern cameras, both digital and phone, have many advantages over the old film equipment of the past, the most useful being the ability to instantly view your results—no more waiting several days to see if you captured your friend on her horse at the last show without cropping her head off.

You can now study your composition, timing, and focus in the camera before continuing to snap away. This tool can be the key between creating an ordinary photo or an inspiring image that excites the viewer and perhaps wins a photo contest!

By looking at the image in the camera and asking yourself, “How does it look, and how can I make it better?” you can check for proper focus as well as distractions in the background, and then recompose your image to improve its overall appeal.

Here a few key things to think about when taking pet photos, as well as shooting and reviewing the images in your camera.

Selecting a Subject

Good photos start with good subjects. Dirty spots on a horse, tangled and matted hair on a dog, or bold logos on clothing can be distracting and will take the attention away from your subjects. Take the time to prepare your models, if possible, before taking pet photos.

◆ Horse/Dog: Should be well turned out and clean.

◆ Tack/Equipment: Should be well fitting, clean and in good repair.

◆ Rider/Handler: Safe, simple and neat clothing is best; avoid logos and words on shirts. Shirts should be tucked and buttoned.

Background

Avoid busy backgrounds that take the viewer’s attention away from your subjects when taking pet photos.

Choose a simple and clean background and place your subjects a decent distance in front of your backdrop to draw more attention to them.

◆ Blurred Background: Blurred backgrounds can be achieved by adjusting your camera aperture (the opening where light enters the camera) to around f/2 to f/5.6—the smaller the number the bigger the opening, which allows more light in. This is good if you’re in a darker lighting situation or if you want to blur the background. Or you can use portrait mode on a point-and-shoot or phone camera. This decreases the depth of field and will give more detail to your subject, blurring out what is behind it. The farther away your background is from your subject, the more blurred it will be.

◆ Black Background: A black background can easily be achieved by placing your subject in front of an open barn or indoor arena doorway with the sun shining directly into the door. Place your subject just in front of the shadow where the light will hit them, and make sure any lights in the arena or barn are turned off.

◆ Framing: Take pet photos to the next level by using something to frame your subject, such as a doorway, window, or trees. This can add to your image and attract the viewers’ attention even more towards your subject.

◆ Distractions: Watch for things such as fence lines or trees poking out from the top or side of the subject. We’ve all seen plenty of images of a tree unfortunately growing out of someone’s head.

Composition

◆ Heroes, Friends and Villains: When taking pet photos, think of your subject as the Hero and everything else as ether Friends or Villains. Friends support the hero and villains distract from it.

Villains should be removed either physically, such as relocating a blue bucket or pile of manure, or by zooming in and/or recomposing your image to take it out of the frame. To recompose your image, try moving a few feet in one direction or another to shoot a different angle so you can avoid things you don’t want in the background.

◆ Rule of Thirds: If you break an image into thirds both vertically and horizontally, the human eye is naturally drawn toward the intersection of those lines. The rule states that something of interest should fall on one of those intersections, as opposed to smack-dab in the center of the photo.

Overall Appeal

◆ Mood and Interaction: Mood and/or interaction can bring an emotional feeling to an image and tell a story. By setting up your shot, reviewing it on the camera, and adjusting anything that needs to be adjusted, you will be ready for that special moment.

◆ Action: Stopping motion is more technical and difficult. Point-and-shoot cameras have a sports mode, which tells the camera that you want to stop a moving target, allowing the camera to automatically set a higher shutter speed.

On more sophisticated cameras, you have shutter priority. This means you select the shutter speed, and the camera will alter the aperture depending on your lighting conditions. Shutter speed is calculated in fractions of a second, and the minimum shutter speed needed to stop a horse or dog in motion is a 500th of a second or higher.

Many higher-end cameras also have continuous focus or continuous tracking, which allows you to track the subject in motion, keeping it in focus at all times. The faster the speed you use, the more light is required, so it’s best to shoot action on a bright sunny day.
Happy shooting!

The post Ears up! Tips for Taking Pet Photos appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

My New Zealand equestrian vacation all seems like a dream now. Today, as I write this, marks day 32 of my self isolation due to COVID-19, and I would give anything to be back in the saddle on Hannah, the Shire-cross mare that John Wall, owner of the New Zealand trekking company, gave me for the duration of my riding vacation in the destination of New Zealand.

It’s funny how being without a cell phone and internet seemed like a luxurious break from reality back in January, but now it’s my lifeline to the outside world, where a simple trip to the feed store seems like an adventurous outing.

If I were to pick a place to be transported to after this craziness is over, I would most definitely choose to be on Hannah, riding among the clouds on the South Island of New Zealand. It would be a welcome treat to revisit the five-day trek around the spectacular Lake Hawea, with a day of wine tasting in Wanaka followed by four days of climbing mountains on our steeds in the picturesque Ahuriri National Park.

If only I could go back to Hunter Valley Station where it all began, watching the horses graze in the paddock by the turquoise waters of Lake Hawea. Or to Boundary Hut, singing familiar songs with Angie Leckey, John’s wife and business partner, as she plays her ukulele around the open fire.

Just thinking about the camaraderie with the other women, the daily laughter, and the scenes from the saddle during my riding vacation in the destination of New Zealand puts a smile on my face.

Saddling Up for Adventure

Adventure Horse Trekking N.Z., Ltd., has been in business for seven years now, and hosts approximately 25 rides per year with their team of 76 horses. Many of the horses, including Hannah, are sired by Supreme, their Shire stallion.

Their draft-cross breeding program produces what John calls “a traditional Kiwi farm horse,” equally suitable for plowing or riding. Wall and Leckey are a welcoming couple, and I was honored to be a part of their first ride partnering with Wild Women Expeditions, a company that empowers all women through adventure travel of all kinds.

The Land of the Long White Cloud Ride begins at Hunter Valley Station, a working
farm and sheep ranch that sits on the banks of glacial-fed Lake Hawea, known as one of the most beautiful areas in New Zealand.

Our trek around the lake takes in jaw-dropping views from trails bordered with blooming manuka bushes, wild foxglove and purple lupins. For two nights in Boundary Hut, we live as the herdsmen do, without electricity or indoor plumbing.

Megan Kelly, one of the wranglers and a professional chef, treats us to a home-cooked Kiwi-style Christmas dinner, which includes a shrimp and smoked salmon cocktail starter and a beef tenderloin with berry sauce main course. We know we are in good hands as we finish off this memorable meal with a Pavlova for dessert—a traditional New Zealand cake made of meringue, whipped cream and fruit.

Dinner is cooked in an outdoor kitchen and eaten at a large outdoor dining table underneath the mountains. As the sun sets and the full moon rises over the hills, we gather around the fireplace, singing familiar songs in unison to Leckey and her ukulele.

Riding Around the Lake

The ride to Dingleburn Station on the other side of the lake includes water crossings and lunching on a beach, where some are brave enough to swim. Swans float in the water and Merino sheep dot the countryside.

At Dingleburn Station, we welcome the indoor plumbing, hot showers, and company
of Nicky Mead and her family, who run the 17,000-acre farm of Merino sheep and Angus cattle. Dingleburn Station was only accessible by boat, horse or air until the early 1960s, when the road was blasted out.

Leaving Dingleburn Station, Nicky gives us a demonstration of one of her Huntaway dogs at work gathering a large flock of sheep. We pass a waterfall, which provides power for the station, and climb to the top of a hill to take in the glorious views. The road out hangs over a cliff wall with the shores of the lake below.

Winding Up the Trip

Our only day out of the saddle features wine tasting at local wineries near Wanaka. We visit Maude Wines, which recently won an award for their Riesling. I purchase a bottle of Basket Case at Nanny Goat Vineyard, made from handpicked bunches of whole grapes, including the stems.

The final portion of the ride transports us to the picturesque Ahuriri National Park and Birchwood Station. There, we ride up switchback trails for mountainous views, gallop through lupin-filled meadows, and cross large bodies of water.

Lunches take place beside babbling brooks, on top of mountain peaks or beside a lake reflecting the surroundings.

It was a sad day when we said goodbye to the horses, hugged each other and went our separate ways, either beginning our journey home or continuing to see more spectacular sights of the island.

For me, it was a blessing to be able to take part in this wonderful journey, but now more than ever, I’m thankful for the opportunity. The Land of The Long White Cloud Ride is now most definitely on my list of must-do rides.

This article on New Zealand as a riding destination appeared in the June 2020 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Ann Wallin, a certified neuromovement practitioner trained in the Anat Baniel Method, lives to improve riders and horses using Feldenkrais movements. Feldenkrais is a practice involving very tiny movements of the skeletal areas of the body, most importantly the pelvis, and strives to connect brain to bone. Through slow and mindful movements, the brain learns to communicate to certain parts of the skeleton while relieving muscle tension in the process.

Through this method, Wallin details three exercises you can do to attempt to alleviate pain and stress in certain areas of your horse.

“All of these movements need to be done very slowly,” says Wallin. “Small and gradual movements are performed mindfully, with a very gentle touch. You should take the time to feel and sense what is going on in your horse’s body and make subtle adjustments as needed.”

Sternum Lift Exercise For Girthy Horses Suffering from Sore Shoulders

If you have ruled out ulcers, one of the most effective things to try is a sternum lift.

“To perform this exercise, stand at the girth facing the side of your horse,” says Wallin. “Cup both your hands like you would to fill them with water. With slightly bent knees, gently touch the girth area of your horse’s sternum with cupped hands and hold for a count of three or four.”

Practicing this exercise with my equine massage therapist, Laurie Rusk of Gentle Persuasions, she demonstrated the intensity of the touch.

“It is almost like a feather touching your skin,” Rusk described, while glancing her fingers over the hairs of my arm. The intensity of the touch is important. Your horse will most likely move if the touch is too intense, so try to move with him, slowly decreasing the touch and energy until he stands still.

Retaining the same amount of contact with your hands, as slowly as you can, start to exhale while allowing the intent of your hands to draw the sternum down. At the same time, draw the rear of your pelvis toward the floor. You should notice your horse’s sternum start to move toward your fingers. Repeat.

A variation of this is to stand at the girth and put one hand, with the same intensity, cupped on your horse’s sternum at the girth and your other (front) hand wrapped around his chest, gently touching the front of his sternum in the divot.

As you exhale slowly and with intent, push your front hand toward your girth hand, and then the girth hand toward the front hand, simultaneously moving your pelvis to mimic the hands. Your left pelvis follows your left hand, and your right pelvis follows your right hand. Notice if one way is easier to move.

Wallin recommends doing these exercises before every ride for approximately five minutes. 

Hoof Circle Exercise for Sore or Stiff Back Legs

To help alleviate pain in back legs, stand at the side of your horse facing backward as if you were going to pick up his hoof for cleaning. Slowly and carefully run your hand down one of your horse’s back legs and raise it. Hold the hoof off the floor only an inch.

With your pelvis leading the movement, start to take the hoof in small circles as if there was a pencil hanging from the toe of the foot and you were drawing a small circle with the pencil on the floor. Move very, very slowly so you can feel what is easy or hard in the circle.

Be mindful to use your pelvis to make the circles, not your arms, as it is a completely different feel to the horse. Notice which quadrant of the circle is easy and which is flat. Go slower on the “flat” part of the circle, and repeat this part several times.

Reverse the direction of the circle and see if that is easier. Compare the ease of the circles on the right leg and the left leg. Which one seems to move more symmetrically and smoothly?

Perform this exercise three or four times a week and do five circles in each direction.

The Feldenkrias method developed by Moshe Feldenkrias uses gentle movement and directed attention to increase and ease range of motion and improve flexibility and coordination. Not only can it help your horse, but can help to realign your spine as a rider and teach you how to move with greater efficiency. Special thanks to Ann Wallin for introducing me to this amazing science and Laurie Rusk for walking me through it. For more information on Feldenkrias, visit feldenkrais.com. Give a lesson a try—there are many classes on YouTube; I recommend Stewart Hamblin from the U.K.

The post Working with Pain in Horses appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

As a photojournalist, I have made a career as a riding vacation junkie. In my opinion, having the opportunity to experience little pockets of the world the typical tourist never ventures into with my rump in a saddle and feet in the stirrups is the best way to experience new places.

When I am asked, “I want to go on a horseback riding trip, where do you suggest I go?”

I cannot answer, “You should go to (fill in the blank).”

There are many things to consider when choosing your perfect riding vacation. Questions regarding budget, amenities, riding ability, sleeping accommodations, and food are worth asking yourself or the outfitter before giving up your hard-earned dollars for a dream vacation on horseback.

What’s My Budget for Choosing a Riding Vacation?

Services such as hotels, shuttles, meals off premises and activities outside of the outfitter’s package all increase the cost. Outfitters hosting rides on their own (or permitted-use) land will be much more affordable than one that ventures outside of their region.

If you’re on a tight budget, consider something close to home to save on airfare. If a ride share service or rental car is necessary, request the contact information of other guests to help split up this cost.

Where Do I Want to Sleep?

If you are going to wake every morning in pain from sleeping on the floor or cot in a tent, will you be happy in the saddle all day? Even camping has variations, from sleeping outside under the stars to glamping in a canvas tent with full hydro. Choose what works for you.

What Amenities Do I Need?

Not all rides provide flush toilets and hot showers. You may find yourself straddling over a hole in the ground. If you prefer modern convenience when on the throne, be sure to inquire about the facilities.

A hot tub is an added bonus. It helps if freshly made margaritas are delivered upon request, but as long as it is clean, hot and has jets that will soothe aching joints after a long day in the saddle, it will do the trick.

What Do I Want to Eat?

From mutton soup and guinea pig on a stick to pairing Malbec with an Argentinian barbeque, the food possibilities are endless. What is your tolerance? Can the outfitter accommodate dietary restrictions? Food is an integral part of pleasing guests, and most do their best, but depending on where you are in the world a delicacy to them may not be your cup of tea.

If you’re traveling from one location to another and camping, the food may be more basic than a five-star ranch dining room. That being said, I’ve had some excellent meals in the wilderness.

There are many things to consider when choosing your perfect riding vacation. Questions regarding budget, amenities, riding ability, sleeping accommodations, and food are worth asking yourself or the outfitter before giving up your hard-earned dollars for a dream vacation on horseback.

What’s My Riding Level?

Simply put, be honest about your riding level. Your mount can make or break your trip. Just because you were a high-level rider 10 years ago but haven’t been in the saddle since doesn’t mean you’re still an expert. Unused riding muscles will not enjoy the ride on a high-energy or strong horse. A walk/trot rider who enjoys the occasional canter on a trail ride should not sign up for a week’s worth of hard, day-long rides.

Check the itineraries for hours in the saddle. Are there rest periods at lunch to give your body a break? Unless the adventure of crossing the Andes or galloping the Mongolian desert outweighs the aches of long hours in the saddle, look for something easier.

On the other hand, you don’t want to be disappointed that the rides are too short. Choose what is best for you.

Typically rides that go off-property for days will give you the first day at home to test your mount. If you’re unhappy with your horse for any reason, let them know!

What’s My Horsekeeping Tolerance?

Look at the photos on the website and study the horses’ demeanor and tack fit.

If an outfitter asks your weight and has a maximum, it’s a good indication that your outfitter cares more about the horses than cashing in on clientele. Do your due diligence and talk to people who have been on the ride or look at testimonials.

What Do I Want to See and Do?

Are you interested in the culture and history of the country? Do you want to learn how to rope a cow, team pen and square dance? How about swimming with your horse, learning to fly fish or being taught the basics of natural horsemanship? Maybe a retreat to find your inner self or a ride combined with yoga will be better suited to your needs. There are so many options out there.

When choosing a riding vacation, check the itineraries for activities outside of riding.

Typically rides that go off-property for days will give you the first day at home to test your mount. If you’re unhappy with your horse for any reason, let them know!

Who is the Guide?

If your guide speaks your language, is knowledgeable about the local history, flora and fauna, it will make for a much more entertaining trip. Ask about your guide’s language and knowledge of the area.

Will I Be Safe?

When looking at photos on an outfitter’s website, watch for guides placed both in the front and back of the clients. Look for radios on a guide. Did they ask you for your medical insurance or who to call in case of an emergency? Do the bulk of the photos show riders wearing helmets, or are they in running shoes with baseball caps?

Thinking about and clarifying the above topics may paint a better picture of the ride when choosing a riding vacation. Manage your expectations.

There will always be surprises, but keep an open mind and bring your sense of humor along with your sense of adventure.

Happy trails!

This article on choosing a riding vacation appeared in the January 2020 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

Further Reading

• A Tölt On The Wild Side on an Iceland Horse Riding Vacation
• Riding the Best of the West
• Camping With Your Horse
• Packing List for a Dude Ranch Vacation
• Equine Wellness Retreats

The post Choosing a Riding Vacation appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.