Gaited Horses are fast becoming the preferred mount for trail riding.  The combination of smooth ride, great mind, easy going personality and small size is a huge plus for the trail rider, especially for those over 30 years old!  Paso Fino’s and Peruvian Paso’s are a favorite for several reasons:  their small size, their nimble stride and their versatility.  The Paso’s relatively small feet makes them ideal for rocky trails and their smaller bone structure makes them a more comfortable ride on the rider’s hips.  The Paso’s, in spite of their brio or fiery nature, are really fairly calm and trustworthy on the trail.  In most situations the Paso’s I’ve ridden have responded to surprises such as motorcycles, cars, deer, ducks, unexpected trail hazards and dogs without losing their heads or taking off.

This is not to say that these horses are without heart or stamina!  After a 3 day trail ride, The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Posse Ride covering more than 70 miles of mountainus terrain, Destino was ready to perform at his best for the Lincoln County Parade!  He had the carriage of a well rested horse even though he had lost some significant weight on the strenuous ride.  While many of the horses on the trail ride were dragging, literally, these Paso Fino’s were still spirited, showy and ready to go!