Conference noted::equitation

    I haven't used the EQUITOUR group but there are a few others that
    do the same thing, such as FITS EQUESTRIAN, GREAT JOURNEYS and
    CLAREMONT.  Last summer I booked a week in Ireland through FITS
    EQUESTRIAN at a place called Castle Leslie.  It's a 1,000 acre estate
    with 250 cross country jumps for all levels.  They have 12 guests
    at a time who stay in the hunting lodge on the estate and ride 4-6
    hours a day (in two sessions).  It's a great confidence builder
    for the novice jumper and one of the best vacations I've ever had.
    I think it cost about $700 for the week, including all meals.  I
    plan to take a trip in France one of these days where you ride from
    farmhouse to winery to castle to old country inns.  If you're into
    riding, these are great vacations since you meet people from all
    over the world.  I also saw a TV spot on the ride in Vermont that
    way featured in Yankee magazine.  Looks great and I hope to get
    time off to go on one of the September rides.  
    
    I'm also interested in knowing anyone else who has been on one of
    these vacations or can recommend a company.
    

    Hi,  I am not sure who offers this vacation,   but some friends
    and I are planningan eighteen day vacation in New Zealand this coming
    February.  We will tour Nor�h and ��outh Island via  horseback
    using the stock saddle.  If you are interested,  let me know  and
    I will send you some of the information as I receive it.
    
    Ed.

	Here's once that sounds nice; it was on Evening Magazine
	tv show a couple of weeks back. For more information, call
	617-783-4636 (Evening Magazine info line).

	Anyhow, it's called "Inn to Inn on Horseback", by Kedron
	Stables out of South Woodstock, Vermont. You travel about
	20 miles per day on horseback and stay the nights at inns
	in, among other places, Tyson, Ludlow (Echo Lake Inn) and
	Chester, Vt.

	Someone else gave me this information, so that's all I have;
	I suppose you use their horses, but I don't know if you can
	use your own, if you prefer.

	By the way, I received a brochure in interoffice mail last
	week, "A Guide to Vacationing With Your Horse". I talked to
	another noter who received one too. Neither of us know where
	it came from...at any rate, if it was a fellow noter, I thank
	you!

	-julie
	

             <<< DELNI::WORK$01:[NOTES$LIBRARY]EQUITATION.NOTE;1 >>>
                      -< - Equitation Notes Conference - >-
================================================================================
Note 482.0                     Horseback Vacations                       1 reply
PLANET::KEIRAN                                       11 lines  13-JAN-1988 15:01
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Has anyone ever gone on one of the horse vacation packages offered
    by Equitor, Fits Equistrian, or Claremont?  We were thinking of
    going on the Pony Express ride in Wyoming, during the summer of
    89.  If anyone has gone on any of the rides, could you let me know
    how they were, if you were happy with the package you picked, 
    anything you think I should know before making a decision, etc?
    
    Thanks so much,
    
    Linda
    
================================================================================
Note 482.1                     Horseback Vacations                        1 of 1
QUIFF::SCHLENER                                       8 lines  14-JAN-1988 09:57
                              -< Montana,anyone? >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I have a friend who's gone on 2 trips in the Sawtooth mountains
    of Montana. He's always enjoyed the ride - 2 weeks long, and the
    pictures he's brought back makes me envious. 
    I'm not sure if he went through any of the companies mentioned in
    .0 but I'll try to find out.
    
                                    Cindy
    

    This is from the Sunday CHICAGO TRIBUNE dated Feb. 21, 1988.
    
    
   Ireland at a gallop.
    
     This article was several pages long and so is too long to enter
    all of it here.  
    
      The Irish Tourist Board's "Equestrian Guide" booklet lists a half
    dozen trail-ride operations that vary in length from 3 to 7 days.
    
    One of these rides is the Killarny Reeks Trail that can be booked
    through travel agents or directly to Donal O'Sullivan, Killarney
    Riding Stables, Balleydowney, Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland,
    telephone 011-353-064-31686.  The 7 day trail is $898.00 a person
    twin room with a $98.00 single supplement.  The 3 day trail is $474.00
    with a $49.00 single room suppliment.  Deposit of $163.00 a person
    is required for booking, balance to be paid 45 days before the trip.
    Prices include accomidations and all meals, luggage transfer to
    all hotels and an experienced guide. 
    
    Other trails are in County Sligo on the northwest shores, County
    Galway in the West, Waterford in the Southeast, the Dingle Peninsula
    out of Traleee, and in County Tipperary , the islands heart.  The
    week long rides cost from about $654 to $980 a person.  Depending
    on the operation, the price includes all lodging, meals and transfer
    of luggage.  Some trails run only from April to October.
    
    
    For the Ireland "Equestrian Guide" which covers all aspects of horses
    in Ireland in addition to the trail rides mentioned above, write
    to Board Failte, P.O. Box 273, Dublin 8, Ireland.

    I remember someone mentioning this place in Vermont, that does
    "inn to inn" type vacations on horseback.  I'm not sure if this
    was Kedron Stables (note 330.4) or not.  There was an article in
    Yankee magazine last June.  They had the phone number in it.  Does
    anyone have the name/number of this outfit?
    
    Thanks for any help...

    I am almost positive that Kedron Stables is the same Inn.  I wrote
    to them and received some information just a couple of weeks ago.
    It sounds really nice. The price is $800.00 for a week (per person), 
    which includes each night at a different Inn, all meals and the use of 
    their horse or the board of your own. They ride for about 6 hours each 
    day.
    
    They also have a 3 day weekend package which costs $350.00 (which
    is a little more affordable, for me anyway) and includes the same services.
    
    Tomorrow I can bring you in more detailed information.
    
    Also, a couple of issues ago, "Horsemen's Yankee Pedlar" had a good
    article on vacations on horseback.  
    
    Regards,
    
    Susan
    
                                                                              

    RE: 330.8
    
    Susan,
    
    Thanks for the information.  I would like to go on a Vermont horseback
    vacation sometime this summer.  I'm from Colorado, where horseback
    vacations are fairly numerous, but they tend to be of the Western
    trail variety - great, but I would like a change of pace/scenery.
    
    While $800.00 is not exactly in the small change category, it is
    really quite reasonable when you look at the per day cost.  Lodging,
    meals, and 6 hours of riding for a bit over $100/day.  Unbelievable!
    
    I'd appreciate information on how to contact them when you get a
    chance.  And if you go, I'd love to hear about it!
    
    Sharon

    Sharon,
    
    Here is a brief summary of the brochure.  
    
    All rates quoted are per person and vary depending on what time of
    year and on single/double occupancy.
    
    Weekend Riding Vacation - Includes 2 nights lodging, 2 gourmet dinners
    and 2 country breakfasts.  1 1/2 days guided riding on country dirt
    roads and through woodland trails.  Lunch is served on the trail
    both days. Prices range from $352.00 - $350.00.
    
    Trail-Riding-For-Pleasure Clinic - Is for less expereince riders
    who may need some lessons and confidence building before tackling
    the terrain.  Includes all of the above but the first day is strickly
    riding lessons and this package is is for 5 days.  Prices range from
    $750.00 to $850.00.
    
    Mini-Inn-To-Inn Riding Vacation - Is geared towards high intermediate
    and advanced riders.  Includes 3 nights and 2 full days of trail
    riding plus meals.  Price range is from $445.00 - $525.00
    
    Inn-To-Inn Riding Vacation - Was in June 1987 Issue of Yankee Magazine
    and aired July 17th 1987 on Evening Magazine.  This ride is geared
    towards high intermediate to advanced riders.  Includes 5 nights
    at Country Inns, and the 3 meals per day.  Prices range from $800.00
    - 900.00
    
    Premium Inn-To-Inn Riding Vacation - This is if you go during Vermont's
    popular foliage season.  Price $1,100 - $1,200.
    
    The different Inns that you would be staying at are:
    
    Kedron Valey Inn - So. Woodstock, VT
    Inn at Weathersfield - Perkinsville, VT
    Inn at Long last - Chester, VT
    Echo Lake Inn - Ludlow, VT
    
    All riding (on their horses) is English.  
    
    They also give lessons, board, train, and have carriage, hay and sleigh
    rides.
    
    If you want more information send to:
    
    Kedron Valley Stables
    P.O. Box 368
    South Woodstock, VT  05071
    (802) 457-1480
    
    I hope this is of some help Sharon.  Next year I may try the weekend
    riding vacation.
    
    Regards,
    
    Susan
                           

      
      Luzerne Campground  (camping with your horse)
      Rt 9N
      Lake Luzerne, NY 12846
      518-457-2500

      State-owned public campground. Sanitary facilities, hot and cold
      showers, cooking sites. Large flat open fields with easy truck and 
      trailer access, Ample parking for large and small rigs, horse corral, 
      covered tie stalls, water access for horses.
      Easy access to large trail system.
      $7.50 per night includes horses. Open May 15 - Oct 5.
      
      ------------------------------------------------------------------
      Painted Pony Ranch (Motel with stables)
      Howe Rd off Rt 9N at Lake Vanare
      Lake Luzerne, NY 12846
      518-696-2421

      Motel rooms, cabins, restaurant at lodge. Stable with arena and
      access to large trail system. 
      Painted Pony Ranch holds many gymkhanas and trail rides throughout
      the year.
      If you don't bring a horse, Painted Pony Ranch has weekend and week-
      long trail-riding vacations on their horses. 

      ------------------------------------------------------------------
      For info on many New York horse activities write:

      Dude Ranch Trail Horse Association
      385A Gailey Hill Rd
      Lake Luzerne, NY 12846
      518-696-4541
      

    
    	Vacations on Horse back..........I just went to Ireland and
    stayed in a place called Castle Leslie its in Monahan.  It was wonderful
    I have been riding most of my life and I never thought I would be
    able to do the cross country jumps that Castle lelie had.  The horse
    were well feed and really enjoyed their job.  I can't wait to go
    and spend another two weeks there next year.
    
    	I went to castle leslie alone but, I meet so many people from
    Sweden, Florida, Gallway and France and by the end of the week we
    were exchanging phone numbers and address's.
    
    	I booked the trip though 
    
    		Equitour
    		Bitterroot Ranch
    		Dubois Wyoming 82513
                1-800-545-0019

    
    
    Glad you enjoyed your stay at Castle Leslie I have visited there
    a number of times on my way around Ireland as a support engineer but
    have never arrived when it was convenient for a ride out. One of
    the FS managers in Dublin goes there several times a year and one of 
    our swas guy's wife bought a horse from there recently. 
    
    	If you are back look me up in ELF and make contact 
    
    
    regards Gareth 

    A customer of mine desparately wants to spend his vacation on a
    cattle drive.  He saw a TV program about some dude ranch (for lack
    of a better term) participate in one of these ventures.  He thinks
    it was in either Arizona or Texas, and seems to remember Chisolm
    Trail being mentioned.
    
    Has anybody else heard of this?  
    
    -maureen
    

    
    I know in a few back issues of the Pedlar a woman used to 
    advertise such get aways. I'll try to search thru old issues
    and see if I can find it. They specifically were for people
    who wanted a vacation on a working cattle ranch, offering 
    overnight drives over the plains etc.. sounded pretty interesting.
    
    Marianne
    

    
    
    Try Outlaw Outfitters
        P.O. box 1334 Deplt. H
        Vail, Colorado 81658
        1-800-443-7303
    

    I would like to take an extended weekend vacation to a facility
    that caters to the horse lover.  In the Mid-west we called these
    places 'dude ranches'.  I believe there are a few in New York state,
    but am very interested in hearing from anyone who has suggestions.
    I want to drive about 5-6 hours max. to get there.  I can't afford
    to pay big big bucks each night either.  I would like a ranch setting,
    unlimited amount of riding, and perhaps early ranch style breakfast
    and a supper provided.
    
    Any location suggestions?  Or, alternative types of vacation?
    
    Thanks in advance,
    Cynthia
    DTN:  297-7263
    HM:   467-7263
    
    or send replies to this note.
    

    I though that I would relate my experience of a weekend riding vacation
    that I took in Woodstock Vt. this weekend.  It was absolutely
    wonderful.  The package was a Bed and Breakfast weekend riding
    vacation. I had never stayed in a B&B before, but I though it was
    very nice.  There was plenty of privacy with the bedrooms having
    there own bath.  The stables that we left out of was the Kedron
    Valley stables.  The horses were in great shape.  Even though the
    trail rides are guided, they pair you with people of equal riding
    abilities.  So if you are inexperienced they send you out with a
    "slow" group and if you are experienced they send you out with the
    "fast" group.  The scenery is absolutely fantastic and well worth
    the money spent.  The cost of this vacations was $260/person(dbl
    occupancy).  This included 2 nights staying at the B&B with breakfast
    between 7 & 9 in the morning.  The breakfast was great.  The B&B
    that I stayed at had fresh fruit coffee cakes both mornings(homemade).
    Homemade jams and jellys, toast made out of homemade bread.  Applesauce
    made out of there own apples.  Then on top of all this, you can
    have eggs (cooked to your preference), pancakes, whatever.  The
    whole weekend was absolutely wonderful and well worth the price.
    They also offer Inn to Inn riding vacations, and I was also told
    that if you want to take your own horse, then that can be arranged
    as well.   

    Does anyone have some hints/experiences with riding vacations in
    Ireland?

    
    	This month's issue of the Northeast Equine Journal
    	has an article about vacationing with horses, and one
    	of the trips is in Ireland. I can bring in the info
    	tomoroow if you want. (?)
    
    	Sherry
    

    Sherry, I know it has been several weeks since I've checked the
    conference but... yes, please, if you still can give me the reference
    to the article and mag it would be much appreciated.  Just as with
    keeping up with even this conference, there seems to be so little time
    left to even think about keeping a horse so I thought the next best
    would be to at least get some riding in on vacation.
    
    thanks,
    Rick
    

    
    	The article appeared in the february issue of the 
    	Northeast Equine Journal. If you cannot find it, send 
    	me mail and I will fwd a copy of the article to you.
    
    	Sherry
    

    
    HOLIDAYS IN HAMPSHIRE (UK)
    
    Available for rent in the Summer (or Winter) a beautiful Pine Log
    Cabin, situated on a farm, with woodland all around. The Cabin is
    brand new, and has new funiture etc throughout.
    
    The Cabin comprises of:
    
    2 Good Sized bedrooms
    Bathroom/shower room
    Kitchen
    Lounge
    Patio doors and side entrance etc
    Built in wardrobes, cubboards etc
    Gas Heating/cooking
    
    Horses are welcome with their families, and they too can enjoy, the
    miles of countryside, and X country courses, which are situated
    around the farm.                                          
    
    Prices:
    
    For 1 week in the summer 170.00 which includes 1 horse, Stable/grazing
    feed, hay and straw.
    
    For 1 week without horse 150.00.
    
    To bring more than 1 horse a small extra charge will be added.
    
    If you need more information, then please call on 7833 3227, or
    out of hours 0831 340875 (mobile).
    
                                      

    Here's another weekend package that sounds great...ad taken from
    the Equine Journal (think it was the April edition):
    
    Equestrian Weekends at Shanagarry Farm
    Route 5, Westminster Station, VT
    
    Inn Rides for the experienced equestrians.
    
    Enjoy two days and two evenings of carefree, horse oriented comraderie
    at Shanagarry Farm.  Take a break from work or a heavy training
    or showing schedule and let us handle the horses.  Stay in charming
    country inns or homey Bed and Breakfasts.  Enjoy leisurely dinners,
    hearty breakfasts and delightful pinic lunches.  We pamer you and
    provide the horses for the weekend.
    
    You'll rediscover the fun of riding!
    Stay evenings at the Saxtons River Inn and Hickory Ridge House with
    dinner Friday night and ending with lunch on Sunday.  The price
    of $290.00 includes lodgin, meals and, of course, the horses with
    guides and support truck.  The dates are as follows:
    
    May 4-6           May 18-20           June 1-3
    June 15-17        July 6-8            July 20-22
    
    Call 802-722-3548 for more details.
    
    I called about this...was hoping to go June 1-3.  It sounds really
    nifty.  The X-country ride starts between 8-9 on Saturday morning
    and takes about 5 hours.  They stop half way for a pinic lunch and
    wind up at the Inn.  She said it was out in the boonies, so once
    you're there, you're there, might be a good idea to bring a book.
    Then, Sunday morning, ride 5 hours back to the farm.  Sounds like
    just the kind of mental health getaway I need!  And the price isn't
    too shabby either.  And, for those who don't know where Westminster
    Station, VT is - looks to be about 20 west (approx) of Keene, NH.
    If I go, I'll let you know how it was.
    
    Lynne
    

    
    I Live and travel throughout Ireland as a Network Support Engineer,
    I keep horses at home but also visit good riding schools throughout
    Ireland, I can recommend quite a few, Give me a call at 7-751-3252
    (BELFAST office).
    
    
    	REgrds Gareth McComb

    I am writing for a friend...
    
    I had some information at one time on VACATIONS on horse back...
    
    The Equine Tours I think it was called....
    
    Anyways, if anyone out there has the address or information on 
    vacations on horse back, I have some friends that would like to
    go to a resore and be able to ride beside do other activities.
    
    They have a name of a place in N.Y. but are from the Maynard, Mass
    area and would like to find somethin maybe in N.H or Vermont or
    even Maine to go to.
    
    ANy suggestions?
    
    terry
    
    

    Hi Terry!
    
    I've got the Fitz Equestrian Book at home, and I'm pretty sure they do
    have VT, NH, and ME trips listed.  I'll post it tomorrow for you.
    
    Kathy

    The Vermont Icelandic horse Farm, inc has programs from � day rides
    to week long treks.  I have seen them over the past few years, but
    never ridden one, although I will be this fall :*)
    
    802-496-7141
    
    Michele

    I just came back from the Weekend Wilderness Adventure w/ the Vermont
    Icelandic horse Farm.
    
    It was Excellent, very restful (okay, I liked not having to groom,
    tack, and care for the horse......what luxury!) and jsut what the
    doctor ordered.
    
    We rode 5-6 hours a day stopping in remote spots for lunches and
    swimming in the Mad River.  The Icelandics were very easy to ride, and
    the group had fun.  All meals  were provided for......so we didn't have
    to worry about a thing......and could concentrate on having a good
    time.
    
    The farm is approx. 3� hours from Westboro, Ma....not too far a
    distance for a long, romantic horsey weekend. 
    
    
    If anyone is interested in hearing more about this, contact me off
    line.  It was definatly an unusual vacation and well worth the $$
    spent...I highly recommend it!
    
    Michele

    Has anyone out there done any of the Inn to Inn riding at
    Kedron Valley Stables in Vermont, if so, would you share
    your experiences, suggestions, etc.  I have details if
    anyone is interested.
    
    Thanks

    I have not yet done this trip, but I am in the planning
    stages, probably go with the luxury of riding their
    horses, but I know they allow you to bring your own horse
    on some of the rides, tell your girlfriend to call them
    for details at stable: 802-457-1480, office 802-457-2734
    current boarding rates are 15.60 (includes the old tax)
    a day.
    
    Sharon

             <<< DELNI::WORK$01:[NOTES$LIBRARY]EQUITATION.NOTE;2 >>>
                          -< Equine Notes Conference >-
================================================================================
Note 1381.0             Request for info on Dude Ranches.             No replies
VNABRW::MAJEWSKI_M "Maciej MAJEWSKI @AUI Vienna"     30 lines  22-OCT-1990 06:35
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    
    This request might be a little bit misplaced in this noble
    conference but I know no better place to post it.
    
    I am planning a long (4-5 weeks) vacations in the USA and need
    information on the subject of Dude Ranches.
    
    I was told, that the best way to learn the western style
    of riding would be to stay for several days on a Dude Ranch.
    
    Now, the only thing I know about it is, that I am a DUDE :-)
    
    Questions:
    1. What is your opinion about the Dude Ranches in general?
    2. Do you know/recommend any such place(s) between Yellowstone NP
       and Zion NP (the northern and southern boundary of my trip)?
    3. Should I take my european style outfit: loooong boots and breeches
       with me? Wouldn't that be ridiculous among the cowboys?
       (Questions 3. are from my wife :-)
    4. What are the typical accomodation prices?
    5. Is it all/riding inclusive?
    
    Any other hints and remarks are welcome. If you deem it inproper
    to answer within this conference, so send me e-mail, please.
    
    Thank you very much in advance.
    
    Maciej: Dude from Vienna - location of the Spanish School of riding
    
    My All-in-1 address is: Maciej Majewski @AUI

    
    Hi,
    
    I'm headed to a dude ranch next spring in Douglas Arizona. The price
    includes 3 meals a day, use of their facilites and all the riding. The
    group I am traveling with (mostly DECies) had a friend check this place
    out before we made the reservations. It is a smaller place where duding
    (?) is part not all of their income - its a working cattle ranch.
    
    It's Price Canyon Ranch in Douglas Arizona. If you want the name,
    address and phone number, let me and I"ll get it for you.
    
    As for question #3 - breeches and boots are probably not appropriate
    but when you contact the ranch (regardless of which ranch), ask I'm
    sure they have had that questions before.
    
    Nancy
    
    PS - I have taken a trail ride in the desert - its a great way to see
    it.
    

Democratic changes in the Central Europe made it possible: I recently
spent 3 days riding horses on a breeding farm in Sarvar in West Hungary.
It was only 2 hours of car ride from Vienna. I can only recommend it to
everybody.  

If you plan, inspite of the falling dollar exchange rate, to visit
Europe - go and give Hungary a try. I was living in a 19th century
villa, which was established by and belonged together with the breeding
farm to the bavarian kings (close cousins of Hapsburgs - at
that time rulers of the Austro-Hungary). The accomodation and service
were excellent and very, very cheap. After riding one could relax in a
heated swimming pool and/or play tennis.

Now to the horses. They are the best I ever had. The main objective
of the place is to breed, so they have the purest hungarian half
bloods in the world: big brown horses with white socks. They have
plenty of space so the critters are free to spend days at large and
are absolutely relaxed. I think it is this more or less natural
environment that makes them so healthy and free of stress. They are
absolutely friendly - one can pet the most wildly looking stallions.
And they REALLY enjoy the movement.
That makes a great deal of difference in comparison to an average
'riding' horse, that I know from Vienna.

They can be rented on an hourly basis. The companion of a guide
(horse master) in obligatory. For US$ 4 (at the current rate) one gets
a horse and a guide (and probably one or two fellow riders) for an hour.
Longer arrangements are possible. I was riding 2 hours before and 2 hours
after the lunch. The only thing I didn't check on was their ability to speak
english (we spoke german).

I am already planning another visit to Hungary on the nearest longer
weekend. This time I shall try pusta (an unending flat steppe, I imagine
parts of Wyoming that way) riding.

Post a reply if you are interested in a follow-up, please. 
 

	To get more information about the following vacations,
	call the M W RANCH at:

		1-303-536-4206		

	Or, write to:

		M W RANCH, INC.
		19451 195th Avenue
		Hudson, CO 80642

AUTHENTIC 1870's CATTLE DRIVE

	The brochure for this vacation starts off as follows:

		The cattle call of the trail drover echoes again 
		on the open range, inviting you to a challenging
		return to the epic trail drive days of the Old West,
		where you live the adventures of an 1870's drover
		during the historic Great Cattle Drive Era . . .

	My husband has gone on this cattle drive for the past three 
	or four years, and plans on going for as long as it's offered. 
	He thinks it's *great*. According to him, this is about as 
	authentic a cattle drive as anyone is ever going to get. 

	Each cattle drive is a week long. Price is $850, and includes
	horse, tack and meals. 

FAR HORIZONS ADVENTURE PACK TRIP

	The front page of the brochure for this vacation is a "ticket 
	of passage". The text starts off as follows:

		Upon agreement and acceptance, the bearer shall 
		proceed by private transportation to the settlement
		of Alamosa, Colorado Territory, there to meet and
		join a company of twelve adventures and explorers
		and to journey by horseback and pack train into the
		Southern San Juan Range of the Rocky Mountains . . .
	
	This is the first year that the M W RANCH is offering these
	pack trips.  

	Each pack trip is 5 days long. Price is $595, and includes
	horse, tack and meals. 

    For those of you who may wonder about my progress in arranging
    for that Dude Ranch from -.4 here it goes:
    
    I send a letter to the Chamber of Commerce in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
    They did a very reasonable thing: they posted my letter, so within
    two months I've got several offers from different operators in
    Jackson county.
    
    I chose one called TRIANGLE C RANCH. They are located halfway
    between Grand Tetons NP and Dubois, WY.
    
    For ca. US$ 1600 my family of three will spend one week at that ranch.
    
    And that's what We shall get for the bucks:
    
    - free unlimited horse riding
    - one overnight pack trip
    - one day of rafting on the Wind River
    - all meals
    
    Sounds great, doesn't it!
    
    	Maciej
    
    P.S. One thing I learned in the process: they don't call these places
    "dude" nay more but "guest ranch". I really hoped for meeting some
    "dudes" like myself ;-) and not only these boring "guests" 8-}.
    

    
    I would like to travel to Vermont in July and go on a Inn to Inn
    ride.  I would appreciate any information you may have on this.
    
    1.  How do I sign up
    2.  What different types of trial rides vermont offers
    3.  How long are the rides? (20mi under or over)
    4.  Do they have 2 day, 4 day and 7 day rides?
    5.  What do I need to bring? 
    6.  Do they have competitive rides and how do I qualify?
    
    and most imporatant...
    
    I have no trailer!  how can I get there? (I live in Hudson/Berlin,
    Mass)  I know about Blue Chip horse movers..but they are way out of
    my price range...is there any other horse movers cheeper...or is some
    one here in notes planning a trip to Vermont and we can share a ride?
    
    Talk to me,
    
    Thanks in Advance
    
    Louisa

    
    Ok, my turn to take a vacation....... I have just been invited
    to go to California in September...... Does anyone live in the San
    Fran/LA Area that can tell me someplace in the area to ride ???
    We have talked about Frontier Land, but I don't know if they have
    riding there....   I don't mind a drive, but I'm very unfamiliar
    with the area so any help would be great....
    
    Nancy

    I just came back from vacation in San Fran., and they have
    numerous places that have horses for hire.  Most of them
    are along Rte 1 (Heading towards San Mateo) and are
    on the beach.  Not cheap, though!!!  One place we stopped
    at was $28 per person for 1-1/2 hrs.  But, no lead rider
    was required, so you can go out along the beach by yourselves.
    (However, we didn't ride, because of the price)
    They even have a speed limit....you can be ticketed by a ranger
    for riding too fast!!!
    
       "But officer, Honestly, I never saw the stopsign!!!" :-) :-)  
       
    I'll look & see if I have any of the brochures I can send to
    you.
    
    Lynne

    Well I just got some information from:
    
    Fits Equestian vacations
    
    they have me on their mailing list and I just called and received
    information on a New England vacation on horse back.
    
    They have a couple of packages.....I will just give you a few details
    to interest youa and then you folks can call and get onto their mailing
    list and receive their catalogs on vacations all over the WORLD.
    
    I was interested in the New England one because I would just like to
    try it out and they happen to offer along with the six day packages of
    riding all over the mountains....they also offered a STATIOARY package.
    
    The Inn is in Petersborough N.H. and the Inn is called, Honey Lane
    Farms. the packages include....meals, riding, instruction, if rather
    trail riding....transportion when needed, etc.
    
    The STATIONARY PROGRAM.... is for all levels of riders, riding english,
    you will have the option of trail riding in the mornings and the
    afternoons for ( 4 hours of riding per day)...meals, bed, instruction
    if you wish instead of trailriding in the mornings....
    
    the three night/ 2 full days of riding, all inclusive is only $375.00
    per person double occupancy.
     
    If no roommate not available, the room is yours at no extra cost.
    
    $50.00 supplement if you WISH a single room (for three nights)
    $150.00 for each additional day
    $315.00 for NON_RIDERS (3 nights, all inclusive, double occupancy)
    
    DATES: ANY DAY FROM MAY 15 TO OCTOBER 30
    
    On the three nights program...you arrive in the afternoon and have
    dinner meet the other gests, visit the barn and meet the horses. Horse
    assignment and review of schedule. in the evening view a Richard
    Steinkrauss video for beginners and experienced riders will enjoy.
    You will now spend the next two days riding....then after breakfast
    or brunch...you will depart.
    
    CONTACT: FITS EQUESTRIAN
             2011 ALAMO PINTADO RD.
             SOLVANG, CA.
    PHONE:  805-688-9494
    
    I THINK THEY HAVE A TOOL FREE NUMBER BUT DO NOT HAVE IT WITH ME.
    

    Anybody know of any good places to go riding in the Lake George, NY
    area?  I'll be there next week with my niece and we'd love to take off
    in the woods and ride for hours.  BTW, we'd greatly prefer English
    saddles and would love to be able to jump too.  I know there has to be
    some place in that area; would prefer a recommended place.
    
    Thanks,
    Dawn

    I planning a vacation for next summer and I'd like to have some sort
    of riding activity in it.  We are talking about heading South to
    Virgina, Tennesee.  If anyone has ideas or suggestions, please
    pass them on!
    
    Thanks
    
    Michele

    Can't help w/personal recommendations but I have occassionally seen ads 
    in "The Chronicle of the Horse" for riding vacations in various places. 
    You might look there for some ideas. And EQUUS always has a "VACATIONS" 
    section in its yellow paged ad section.

 I copied this from the Desperado Newsletter. I post it here with 
 permission from the author.

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                         SELECTION OF HORSEBACK VACATIONS
	
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From:	EVETPU::RUST 
To:	CLOSET::T_PARMENTER
CC:	RUST
Subj:	Desperados ride horses, right? Vacation ideas w/plenty of horsepower...

Ah, the autumn foliage - the crisp, cool air - the hills of Vermont in
September! And what a way to enjoy these things: riding sturdy little
Icelandic horses uphill and down, sometimes watching the scenery at a
leisurely pace, and other times seeing it as a blur while cantering across
a grassy field. And, after a day's riding, pulling up at a friendly inn,
where a deluxe meal awaits... 

This was the mini-adventure that I joined some friends in last week, and a
jolly time it was - but it isn't for the sake of the glorious views or the
responsive little horses or the fabulous food that I'm writing this. No -
this trip was just the beginning of a whole new world of adventurous
vacations, and I felt compelled to share them. 

In what I now perceive to be part of a diabolical plot, that friendly
little inn with the great food (and the hot, hot baths!) provided a lot
of reading material, too. Among this material was a catalog of equestrian
vacations - and thus were the victims enmeshed in the web. 

"Riding Vacations Around the World" [compiled by FITS Equestrian, a travel
agency] lists horse-related vacation trips which range from pure luxury (a
few hours of riding from California vineyard to vineyard, interspersed
with stays at luxury inns complete with hot tubs) to pure disaster (see 
"The Algerian Death Ride" a bit farther on). In England one can ride from
thatched cottages to Stonehenge to Avebury; in Ireland one can ride to
hounds, or just choose a horse and a map and go exploring; in France, the
Loire-Valley tour lets one ride from chateau to chateau. (And you'll
definitely _ride_; most of these tours are for 5 or 6 days, with several
lasting nearly two weeks, and with from 4 to 8 hours of riding per day.)

There's a tour in Kenya, in a game preserve [though I'd question the
wisdom of riding something that looks like food in the presence of lions];
or one can ride through the Alps [on horses - I didn't see any elephant
tours], or do an equestrian pub-crawl in Australia [I don't *think* the
horses get any beer]. There are tours in Russia, Iceland, Belize, Israel... 
in fact, I think Antarctica was the only place that wasn't listed (and I 
bet one could arrange a "Scott Memorial South Pole Pony Trek" if one were 
completely lacking in sensitivity, said she innocently).

And for the truly ambitious riders, there are the expert-only tours. One
of these is the Luxor Tour in Egypt: described in the catalog as "really
an adventure," this sixteen-day tour features 4 to 7 hours of riding per
day, across the desert at full gallop much of the time. The ride covers
400 kms., from south of Giza to the Valley of the Kings. 

	"The exact routing must be determined anew every year as
 	landmarks and desert configurations change. It is not unusual
 	to spend many hours in finding the next campsite. Since
 	biblical times no riders on horses have crossed these areas
 	and the welcome by the population is overwhelming." 

[I bet it is. We were told of someone who'd tried this tour. She was
mounted on a very thin Arabian horse who immediately set out across the
desert at full gallop; after about 45 minutes of this, she fell off, and
had to watch as the others in the party, unable to stop their horses, sped
away into the distance...] 

But the juiciest trip of all is what I think of fondly as the Algerian
Death Ride, known in the catalog as "The Great Sahara Ride": 

	"You must love the desert, not be afraid of
	loneliness and hardship and be ready to share
	the simple life of the Berbers in order to
	participate on this ride. You must, furthermore, be
	a very experienced rider and in top physical condition
	because once you are in the Sahara there is
	little help and there is no backing out. On the
	other hand, there are few experiences in life
	which can compare in intensity with a week in
	the desert, riding fast Berber stallions with
	nothing but sand around and the sky above you. At
	night the absolute stillness and the dazzling
	brightness of the stars can not be found anywhere
	else on earth and maybe after a few nights you will
	begin to hear 'the desert sing'." 

I just bet you will, too. The ride itself is six days of very fast-paced 
travel, in the saddle 5-8 hours per day, with stops nightly at Berber huts. 
Of the Berbers, the catalog says, 

	"The hospitality of these isolated Berbers is legendary. Our
	riders are probably the only foreigners these people will ever
	see and of course they will do for you whatever they can,
	which is little." 

Well, _that's_ comforting.

After all that, our little two-day jaunt through the Vermont hills looks
pretty trifling, but it was quite the fine time anyway, and I heartily
recommend it. (If interested, contact the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm in
Waitsfield, VT, 802-496-7141.) In fact, some of us are starting to seriously
kick around the idea of going on one of the longer treks - though I think 
we'll stick to those which feature nightly stops at places where hot baths 
are available. At first, anyway.

And if anyone should happen to try one of those desert gallops, do let me
know how it was. ;-) 

[If any of this has roused your interest, you can get a free copy of
"Riding Vacations Around the World" by calling 508-650-9265.]

-beth (who is not affiliated with any of the above and doesn't want to
hear from anybody's lawyer if they get picked up for drunken equitation
in Portugal.)

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	And then there's the tour offered in Israel, a camel caravan in the
	desert.  One camel for each two people.  One rides and the other
	leads.  You keep the same camel the whole trip and get to know lots
	about it.  Don't forget to shake the scorpions out of everything.
	
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    I am planning a holiday starting out from San Francisco, visiting the
    vineyards, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. I'd like to go riding -
    perhaps a 2 day trip - while I'm there. Does anyone have any contacts,
    brochures etc. I am in the UK.
    
    
    Thanks,
    
    Lisa.
    

    That's a lot of area to cover in one trip. Yosemite is about 250 miles East
    of San Francisco but the Grand Canyon is about 1500 miles(2400 KM) SE
    of San Francisco. There are mule trips into the Grand Canyon. Horseback
    outfits and/or "dude ranches" where one can ride daily are common in
    the Western US. BTW, most of these places use Western saddles so the
    riding style is quite different than a dressage, 3-day, jumper or hunt 
    rider is used to.
    
    I've never been on one but there are lots of "packing outfits" which
    have 2-day to 2-week rides in the mountains. They provide guides, cooks,
    horses, etc... and you camp with the horses and other riders. Is that what 
    you're looking for? Or something more civilized with a hot bath and
    decent restaurants at the end of the day?
    
    There was a note a couple days ago that mentioned a company that
    specialized in riding vacations. Would their brichure help?
    

	The Western Horseman issue last month or the month before was 
dedicated to horseback vacations. They listed at least 50 places. They picked
about 10 and did stories on them. I sent for information from about 5 and got
a bunch of info. They all seem to range around $600 to $800 a week and have
all different plans.

	-Steve-

    Thanks for the info! I know it's a huge area :-) We will be spending at
    least a week in Yosemite and plan to fly to the Grand Canyon. I am only
    looking for day trips really - with a hot bath etc at the end ;-)
    
    I have been exchanging mail with another noter and got lots of good
    info, but if anyone has any spare brochures/magazines etc, I'd love to
    see them! My mailstop is REO2 FM/8.
    
    Thanks,
    
    
    Lisa.
    

    Are you looking for outings in the Yosemite area or the Grand Canyon
    area or both? Over the weekend, I noticed an ad in the back of EQUUS
    magazine for an outfitter in Flagstaff Arizona(about 100 miles SE of
    Grand Canyon). They were advertising 3 day to 2 week camping/packing
    trips in the Colorado wilderness...(Don't ask me is hundreds of miles
    away from Flagstaff) But they might have day trips closer to the Grand
    Canyon. I'll post their address if I can remember to look it up.
    
    John

    I am looking for outings in Yosemite, Grand Canyon and the area north
    of San Francisco (the wine country). I am only looking for day trips
    because I want something to do while my husband spends four hours
    photographing a leaf - he is a *VERY* keen photographer. He might even
    join me for a riding trip now and again ;-)
    
    Lisa.
    

    Well, perhaps these folks could help with the Grand Canyon area:
    
    Hartman Outfitters
    448 Lake Mary Rd
    Flagstaff AZ 86001
    
    Telephone 602-774-1719

    We were out in Arizona in October and were looking for some fun riding.
    Every place we tried was walk and trot only.  Their excuse was the
    terrain out that way is not conducive to cantering.  We were
    disappointed and ended up passing on riding.  I have heard of some
    cases were small, out of the way (i.e. less commercial interests)
    have less strict policies.
    
    --Mike

    I can understand certain kinds of riding businesses restricting their
    clinets to W/T. One guide told me that most of their clients don't know
    how to ride and get on a horse only once a year on their vacations.
    Imagine the lawsuits if they let such people canter/gallop/lope and
    the fools fell off!
    
    There are places that allow cantering and even more than size up the
    clients before they make the decision whether or not to go faster tahn
    a trot

  Unfortunately, so many people only see horses on TV and seem to think 
  that they can just hop on a horse and go galloping off into the sunset 
  any time they please. I've talked to people who think horses are just 
  motorbikes covered with fur, and that riding a horse is even easier than 
  riding a bicycle or motorbike. Unfortunately, it's the stable owner's 
  responsibility to protect people from their own ignorance.

  Once while we were at Cape Cod, we went on a sunset beach ride. Before
  we were allowed to go, we had to fill out a *detailed* TWO PAGE questionaire 
  about how often we rode, how many lessons we'd taken and if we owned any 
  horses, etc. When I asked why all the questions, they told me they used 
  to have a form that asked one question: How experienced a rider are you? 
  The answer categories ranged from "Never been on a horse before" to 
  "Very expert". The owner said that *almost everyone* circled "EXPERT"!

    I have been doing some investigation - apparently you can ride on
    mules down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, stay the night, then go
    back to the top. Sounds like the mules are out all day every day.
    Sounds cruel to me - anyone got the details?
    
    Also, I think I'll be riding in Yosemite and the wine country - I'll
    chase up the leads that I've got and post the results here ... don't
    hold your breath, I'm on a course this week ;-}
    
    Lisa.
    

    I did the Grand Canyon hike on foot 2 years ago. The Mules walk like in
    a mule train every day. they are guided. The cost 2 years ago was
    around $300.  They are well fed. Nobody pushes. (too hot). They look
    healthy. The people on their backs are tourists in hawaiian shirts.
    
    Carl

    I did the Grand Canyon on foot a couple 5 years ago, too. I also was
    impressed with the treatment of the mules that we saw there, and would
    LOVE to go back and do it that way in the future. Many endurance horses
    do long distances, 100 miles in 3 days is common I think, with no ill
    effects providing they are taken proper care of, as the Grand Canyon
    mules seem to be. With the amount of public exposure these mules get,
    I'd imagine they are closely watched by animal-abuse groups and such,
    too.
    

I found two sources for horseback vacations recently.   The first is Justin's 
Canyon Rides in Chinle AZ, in the Four Corners area.  Normally, Justin provides
horses and guides for rides into Canyon de Chelly, but will organize trail 
rides almost anywhere in the area.  In April (92) I went on his annual trail 
ride.  This year it was a four-day ride from Chinle to Monument Valley.  It was
spectacular!   Every morning we put our gear on a truck and it was driven to 
that night's campsite.  Justin's wife, Evelyn, was in charge of the 
meals--steak, chicken, etc for dinner and blueberry pancakes and wonderful
coffee for breakfast.  They even had  porta-johns that they drove from site to
site.  Justin and his guide, Eddie, really know the country and we saw the best
of it; herds of wild horses,  canyons, mesas, and _lots_ of open plains.  The
last night they had arranged for a group to play the drums and dance for
us--under a full moon yet.  It was  breathtaking!

Justin's address and 'phone are:

Junstin's Canyon Rides
PO Box 881
Chinle, AZ 86503
(602) 674-5678

The second source is a marvelous book, Gene Kilgore's Ranch Vacations (by
Gene Kilgore, of course) from John Muir Publications, Santa Fe, NM.  It lists 
dude ranches across the country, although the majority are in the West; Arizona,
California, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana.  Each description lists the
activities that are offered.  The ranches range from working cattle operations 
where you are expected to help out, to summer camp for families that offer golf,
tennis, rodeos, hiking, fishing, etc, where riding is only one of the
activities.  The problem now is deciding which one to go to!

    having watched city slickers, does anybody know of anybody who has been
    on one of these types of holiday.
    
    I have until recently regularly ridden in the UK and i am interested in
    Ranch type holidays.
    
    I would like to know what type of places offer these holidays,
    addresses, costs, tel no's etc and experiences
    
    Thanks in advance
    
    
    Steve Gifkins
    
    

    hi
    
    Does anybody know about any Ranch style holidays in the USA.
    
    and does anybody have any experience of these types of holidays.
    Both myself and my partner are reasonably experienced riders and are
    interested in experiencing this type of holiday
    
    thx
    
    Steve Gifkins

    The magazines Horse & Rider (w/Performance Horseman) and
    Western Horseman list numerous places in the USA.

    I have just returned from my vacation on the West coast. I went riding
    twice - Novato, Sunset Corral and Yosemite.
    
    The Ride at Novato was fantastic! We went out for 2 hours through
    forests, up and down steep hills. The views were fantastic and the
    guide was great. He was about 65 years old and he just didn't stop
    talking - quite a character! The horses were very steady which was good
    as I have never ridden western style before.
    
    The ride at Yosemite was dull dull dull! The trail was dusty, busy and
    boring. We were in a line of about 15 horses - at Novato it was just
    the two of us plus the guide.
    
    I really enjoyed my holiday and would ride in Novato again if I got the
    chance!
    
    Lisa.
    

    Friends of mine spent a week in Montana on a "cattle drive".  They
    loved it.  Turned out it was just the two of them (both women) with
    the ranches' cowboys.  They were pampered but still did lots of
    riding and work.
    
    If you'd like I can get more details on this.  They plan to go back
    again next year.
    
    --Mike

    PLease send me the information too.. 
    
    Brat::fultz
    

    In the summer of 1990 I've spent a wonderful week at:
    
    Triangle C Ranch
    P.O. Box 691
    Dubois, WY 82513
    
    It was a real family vacations. However, I was the only one at the
    ranch who was allowed to gallop. The rest of participants were
    not so much interested in riding - some of them took alternative
    programms - wild water/ Yellostone etc.
    
    This coming summer I'll riding for two weeks at the:
    
    MW Ranch
    19451 195th Avenue,
    Hudson, CO 80642
    
    They take only experienced people for "range riding" which is doing
    some real farm jobs. They are booked out 1-2 years in advance for
    another event "cattle drive", whcih doesn't required so much skill -
    they say.
    
    Please allow me for the following remark:
    If you are experienced in hunting/cross-country you'd feel in the
    western saddle as comfortable as in your granma armchair. Therefore
    I do recommend to go for the real thing e.g. range riding and skip
    "dude" or "guest" ranches.
    
    Regards
    
    	Maciej

 I'm looking for any other ranches out west that may do
 real cattle drives and or range riding (you daily check on the 
stock across hundreds of acres.   I have already called the one
listed here in hudson, CO, but am still looking for some possibly
in Montana/Arizona?  or elsewhere.......  anyone visited one 
lately and can give me a description of hwo they felt it was?
My brother and I are looking to go on a live cattle drive or 
similar event and want to find a really nice ranch to go to.

thanks, Nancy  
(another of the mostly read-only readers of this file lately!)

islnds::rostanzo
prefer mail  229-7907

    
    Any Western magazine such as Horse & Rider, Western Horseman
    and some of the others list places in the back.
    
    There is also a company called Fits Equestrian somewhere here
    in MA that arranges riding at places all over the world.
    
    L

    
    Hi Pardners!
    
    Yesterday I came back to Vienna after 2 weeks of cowbouing at the
    
    MW Ranch near Alamosa CO. (Address in 330.70).
    
    This was a REAL and WONDERFULL experience. I am going to repeat it
    ASAP.
    
    If you like to:
    
    1. Get up before the sun and dismount after the sunset.
    
    2. Yell at 'em cows until you get a sore throat.
    
    3. Stay in saddle for up to 14 hours a day in a total wilderness.
    
    4. Gallop up and down steep cliffs to catch up with that *%$# cow.
    
    4. Eat well, get wet well and sleep well but short (night hawks,
       wrangler duty, chuck wagon duty).
    
    If ypu are not afraid of:
    
    1. Coyote choirs at 4:30,
    
    2. Knee deep mud, cow and horse *&%$,
    
    3. 36 hours torrential rains,
    
    4. Trail/Cow boss who expects only one answer from you "YES SIR!",
    
    5. And many more highlights
    
    
    ... then come and ride with us.
    
    It was a real hard work under (sometimes) real hard weather
    condition. It gives satisfaction and feeling of achievement
    unsurpassed by any other adevnture known to me.
    
    	Maciej
    
    PS.
    Special thanks to Marleen Grant who put the address of the
    MW Ranch into this file.

    
    <--  All I need are a few cows, and I can do that scenario at home! (8
    
    Glad you had a good time!
    
    Lynne

    
    			Penfrydd Farms B&B 
    
    				Colrain, MA 413-624-5516
    
    
    My husband and I attended one of their weekend driving clinics
    with Robin Groves.  Excellent food, accomadations and clinic
    stuff.  We went over dressage, obstacles, and cones as well
    as other training issues.  Each meal was set up w/ ample time
    for questions and answers (w/Robin).
    
    Ceacy and Thom Griffin raise Fjords, Lamas, and sheep.  There are
    also a variety of other animals there as well.  There is a separate
    barn for visitors.  Her clinic schedule is listed in the Pedlar
    and Equine Journal, but her B&B is open year round for those interested
    in a equine weekend or non-equine get away!
    

        Hello Horse-friends

        My friends and I are planning to have a horse riding tour for
        holiday next summer in Poland, Europe. Our thoughts go for a 5 or
        6 day, long hours tour from one place to the other.

        For this reason we are looking for addresses (and information/
        stories) in Poland with good horses which offers these kind of
        tours.  Who can help, any reply is welcome to this note or to my
        mail address (JGODCL::HORK).

        Thanks, Harrie.

        P.S. if anyone is interrested, I have a very good adrress for
        tours in Hongary on Lippizaner horses.

Take an American Western vacation!  A covered wagon train
takes you back to the wide open spaces.  

Enjoy a five day wagon train excursion through the hills and valleys
of northeastern South Dakota.  Savor homecooked chuckwagon grub,
sleeping under the stars, the glow of an evening campfire, 
and horsed-hitched covered wagon travel through an authentic 
western backdrop.  You'll see South Dakota buffalo herds and 
wildlife in it's natural habitat.  Learn to hitch, harness, 
and drive your own team of horses.


The 2 wagon train vacations this summer are:
  July 31 - August 4
  August 14 - August 18

Group rates available.


For additional information, call or write:

Rocking P Ranch
Bruce Prins, Wagon Master
Sisseton South Dakota, 57262

Phone: (605) 698-3857

I am posting this for a friend.  I am in no way affiliated with
the Rocking P Ranch, nor will I benefit from this venture.

    re.77
    Can you ask your friend if this trip is entirely wagon train or do you
    have the option of horseback???
    
    Thanks,
    Craig

Hi Craig,

What they are planning on doing is taking a horse along for each
wagon.  That way if people want to ride for a while, they will be
able to.

If you are interested in riding horse more than being in the
wagon, give Bruce a call.  You may be able to work something 
out with him.

Kim

    Thanks Kim.
    
    I was curious because someone else told me of a similar trip, I believe
    in Wyoming, that traced a route taken by pioneers.  This trip, however,
    was a walk, ride in a wagon, or ride your own horse trip.  It was a 3
    or 4 day trip and the thought was that even if you started out on your
    own horse sooner or later you'd end up in a wagon.  At least for a
    while during the trip.  Everything mimic'd (sp?) the early pioneers
    from sleeping under the stars to eating over an open fire.  I suppose
    it would give you a real appreciation for what we have *-)
    
    I recently discovered some weekend trips here in Maryland which I might
    gather more info on when I get a chance.  The farm that sponsors the
    trips (Misty Manor) won't allow novice riders.  They usually only offer
    it to folks they are familiar with.  They've had problems in the past
    starting out on a 3 day escursion only to have someone bail out 3 hours
    into the trip.  They also supply any needed horses, tents, etc., for I
    think it was $115 for the weekend.  One other thing that was kind of
    cute.  Somewhere along the trip, nearby to where you would set up camp,
    off the beaten (sp?) path, is a pub (saloon) with a hitchin' post out 
    front so you can tie up your horses.  My kind of trip *-)
    
    Craig                                 

    re: hitching post, where you can tie up your horse.
    
    When I was a kid I had a horse that could chew any rope in two in just
    a few seconds.  If you tied her and turned around she would be walking
    off loose in seconds.  I don't know where she learned it, but I used to 
    go through a lot of reins and lead ropes.  I wonder if the Cowboys ever
    ran into that?
    
    Sharon

    I am just back from Colorado. I spend 2 weeks with the MW outfit -
    described in .73.
    
    This time it was even better, because I was experienced drover
    and could concentrate better on the job at hand.
    
    We had a smaller herd of cattle and a very good weather - therefore
    there were no accidents this time. I mean apart from some people
    (including me :-) being dumped on their �&%.
    
    Highlights:
    
    - riding the traditional formation with: point, swings, flanks
      and drag.
    - outridng in sometimes heavy timber
    - night hawks with and without moon - depending upon the time
    - chuckwagons
    
    I know this conference is about horses, but being senior
    consultant in this technology oriented company I HAVE TO
    TELL 'YE. "Have a closer look at an Western Chuckwagon the
    next time you see one - it is a masterpiece!!!"
    
    So long pardners
    
    	Maciej

    
    My friend and I want to do another horse vacation in October.  Last
    year we went to Vermont to the GMHA fall ride.  This year we did not
    get to re-join the club in time or register for the ride (alot of stuff
    going on)
    
    But, there must be another place around Maine, Vermont, anywhere in
    New Engald that we can bring our own horses and ride ????
    
    Louisa

[Posted by WWW Notes gateway]

We're planning a trip from Pennsylvania to Colorado (along route 80)and will
be
hauling 2 horses.  Does anyone know of safe places to unload, provide
someplace
to graze/exercise (have solar/electric fense), stalls for the night and
parking
for a pickup and 4-horse gooseneck.  Also, anyone selling horse packing 
equipment in like-new condition (breeching, panniers, pack-saddles type-stuff.
If you've done this, please share anything you'd do differently.
 

, please share your experience with a novice when taking the horses along.ing

a







[Posted by WWW Notes gateway]

    
    You might contact the State Fair folks in Iowa and Nebraska.  
    
    Both State Fair grounds are not too far from I80.  And both 
    places have stalls.  
    
    There are various county fairgrounds near I80 going through Iowa which 
    have reasonable facilities as well.
    
    I think is there a fairgrounds in Elkhart Indiana with stalls and such
    as well.
    
    I have driven (with horses) straight through from Connecticut to 
    Indiana with out taking a very long break.  And you can easily get 
    from Des Moines to Denver in one long shot.
    
    Mary Jo