Karen, Sherry and Janice Trail riding in the Sandia Mountains

It was the middle of February and we were able to ride in the Gutierrez Open Space in the Sandia Mountains near Albuquerque, with an altitude of over 8,000 feet! We navigated through some mud and leftover snow but overall what a beautiful ride! That is why we live in New Mexico! Our friend and good riding buddy Karen had some friends from Ohio visiting and it was our pleasure to escort them into the open space. They were overwhelmed by the beauty of the mountains and the views offered by our well worn trail! Only 2 weeks ago, we like many others in the country experienced zero and below temperatures, freezing pipes and lots of snow, but our beautiful ‘Land of Enchantment’ doesn’t disappoint; we were enjoying 50 degree weather and gorgeous sunshine!  they enjoyed their ride on the amazing horses from Enchanted Gaits Farm and will be forever converts to the gaited horse community!

Over Drive (OD)

Some horses can be difficult when trying to load them into the trailer;  however some horses can’t wait to get into the trailer and even want to climb in all by themselves!  OD (OverDrive) a three year old just recently gelded Paso / SingleFooter was so anxious to get into the trailer he was standing on the side rail!  Definitely not a freaky horse!  When he is older he’ll probably drive himself home!

Casanova

Then again there is the always popular and infinitely patient Casanova a Peruvian Paso outfitted with his sunhat, (necessary to prevent sunburn in our high altitude) and ready for the days ride!  But of course I spoiled him with his gourmet baby organic carrots after taking his picture,  none of those overgrown chewy ones for him!

Last summer we were honored to have Dr Mosely and Mr Eaglin from Louisiana visit us here in the East Mountains of New Mexico!  They are breeders and trainers of the single footer horses and were here to visit and educate about their horses!  Ride like the wind is how you describe the single footer horses,  some of them attaining speeds of 25 mph while in gait!