LAST RIDE OF THIS WINTER - HORSE RIDING

NOTICE: Winter is over so and we can't have Winter Horse Riding in the summer. If we did it would cause all kinds of problems with the weather. Therefor in order to insure good summer weather this will be the last roudup of this winter. Winter Horse Riding will return in October or November of this year after the first hard frost.

I have been asked why Winter Horse Riding? Several reasons. First, no ticks, flies or other insects. Second, horses sweat in the summer. Third, the view and smell of the woods in the winter is fantastic. At least for me, this is so much more of a sensory experience just because it is in the winter.

IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT WEATHER

If it is raining or high winds (hypothermia) then this meetup will be cancelled. If there is deep snow on the ground call the ranch to see if the trails are clear. Just because there is deep snow that doesn't mean they have it or that it is a problem. If you suspect rain go to http://www.weather.com and enter zip code 19426. If I cancel the meetup for weather it will be reflect here and you will get an email. You will still be able to ride if the ranch is open just not as part of our group.

WINTER HORSE BACK RIDING at the Red Buffalo Ranch. Their website is www.redbuffaloranch.com (http://www.redbuffaloranch.com/) and their phone number is 610.489.9707. Please call if you are lost or running late. The ranch touches the 3,500 acre Evansburg State Park which is were most of the trails are.

The maximum number of people that can ride at one time is 15. Different horses can accept different weights for riders. Here is the break down.

Currently available:

1 person up to 250 lbs available spots 1
3 people from 200 lbs to 240 lbs available spots 2
5 people from 175 lbs to 200 lbs available spots 5
6 people under 175 lbs available spots 4

If over 250 lbs call the stable at least 1 week in advance to give them time to arrange for a bigger horse.

The price is $35/hour and we will be riding for one hour. CASH OR CHECK, they don't take credit cards. We may have to wait for horses so bring something hot to drink and of course it is winter so dress in layers and warmly. Have a jacket, appropriate footware and gloves to stay warm. The stable used to require you to wear a helmet which they supply but it is now optional. I recommend it for several reasons including low hanging branches. If you have any questions call the ranch.

The horses are used to inexperienced riders so you do not need to be an expert. As a general rule the horses will not be allowed to run so if you are afraid don't be. These horses are kind and very well trained and it is western saddle which is easy. If you want riding hints just ask. One hint, these horses are trained for 2 hands on the reigns. The horses love mints and the stable will supply some upon request (if they have any left) or to make sure, you can bring some hard candy mints. It is fun watching a horse eat a hard candy.

Last note: If you are inexperienced and they offer you the horse named Storm, refuse. Storm likes to play with her rider to see what she can get away with.