By Lisa Kleiman,
Cricket Adventures
http://www.cricketadventures.com/
From novice riders to wranglers, practically anyone from about age 6 can explore Idaho backcountry by horse. Horseback riding is an excellent way to see and experience pristine and beautiful hard to reach areas. The experience can be exhilarating. Even the gentlest guided trail ride affords the rider with a sense of well-being and a connectedness to nature. There are many organizations that offer family oriented horse trips at great destinations in Idaho. Check out some of these exciting options.
Deadwood Outfitters, located about 90 air miles north of Boise between Warm Lake and Deadwood Reservoir offers a variety of horse trips. Visitors can take short trail rides directly from their cabin or the new main lodge. Fully guided overnight and extended trips are also available and can also be arranged as drop camps. “About 80% of our visitors during the summer are families,” said Dawn Carter of Deadwood. “Kids receive a short lesson and observed to determine the best trail ride,” said Dawn adding that visitors ride well maintained mountain horses along breathtaking areas. “We want the trips to be wonderful memorable experiences!”
Pioneer Outfitters L.L.C. located in Stanley, Idaho, offers a variety of family oriented day rides to extended pack trips in the scenic Sawtooth National Forest and the White Cloud Mountains. “Our trips are true back country experiences where families can really reconnect, experiencing idyllic settings,” said Devan Jackson, owner of Pioneer Outfitters. Pioneer backcountry horse trips range anywhere from spot packs for the do it yourselfer, to those who like the luxury of a trip fully catered by professional and experienced guides. “We custom arrange pack trips for individual needs including fishing, hiking, sightseeing, and photography activities and relaxation time for those who just want to unplug. We can do all the setup and preparation of superb meals,” said Devan.
Of course these are just a few of the many more organizations offering unique and fun horse trips in Idaho. So how do you decide the best one? Gary Cunningham, owner of Three Horse Ranch, a 1,600 acre ranch and horse boarding outfitter in Eagle, Idaho suggests choosing your trip wisely. “Talk to the outfitters. Know the area you’ll be going and understand potential dangers. Only go with a decent and reputable facility that properly cares for its horses and has the staffing to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. All-in-all, use your common sense,” said Gary
Some outfitters offer horseback trips year-round with summer as the busiest time. Trail rides last anywhere from an hour to several days and most outfitters will customize the trip to your needs. Best to call ahead for availability, information and rates. What are you waiting for? Giddyup and take your family on a great Idaho horse adventure!
For more information Contact:
Deadwood Outfitters http://www.deadwoodoutfitters.com/ Phone: 1-800-684-3675
Pioneer Outfitters http://www.pioneeroutfitters.net/ Phone 208-324-7171
Three Horse Ranch http://www.threehourseranch.com/
Cricket Adventures http://www.cricketadventures.com/
Idaho Family Getaways http://www.idfamilygetaways.com/
Article Reprint: Published in Treasure Valley Journal, May 2007
Photos Courtesy of Deadwood Outfitters
Photos Courtesy of Deadwood Outfitters
