Earlier this week we saw a billboard sign about riding horses 'on your own' at Hollingsworth Horses. We called and talked to Lynn, she is very friendly and explained everything, so we set up a ride for today. Any day with horses is a good day for me and John also loves riding but he hates the 'slow, nose-to-tail guide-led trail rides', he loves riding out in the open without a guide.
We arrived early and got to see all the horses come in, running through the woods in to the corral area, beautiful sight. You can tell these animals are well cared for. Kristin, lead wrangler, is a joy to be around. She welcomed us and we talked about our experience levels, John has much more experience with horses than I. Kristin really knows her stuff, she knows each of the horses down to their personalities and traits. She matched us up perfectly with a pair of horses.
We mounted our horses while we were in the round corral and spent time getting to know them before we moved out to the open. Kristin rode with us for a while giving us a few pointers; this was great because I learned a lot more about controlling a horse while riding.
Then we were on our own. The Hollingsworth ranch is 122 acres of gorgeous Black Hills country, you can also ride into the Black Hills National Forest or along the Mickelson Trail. We loved having this kind of freedom, the experience is what ever you want it to be, there are so many places to ride and explore!
Our horses were well behaved, they listened to our orders and followed as we directed them with the reins. We rode up and down hills and over small grassy creeks, we went fast a few times, it was a blast! It was the most fun we ever had riding horses!
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