‘Saddle up’

A 4×4 is perhaps the ultimate cross-country vehicle: it can go just about anywhere. That said, long before the motor vehicle was invented, we managed to cross miles of inhospitable terrain, ford swollen rivers and climb the steepest of gradients. How? We trusted our travels to horses.

They played an integral part in the creation of the United States; from the mail service to the armed services, our equine companions have done us proud.

The horse and its rider are symbolic of our search into the West, of settlers, and equally of native Indians, whose bond to the horse remains a mythical one to this day.

Originally from the Middle East, horses came to American shores with Spanish settlers to South America and later thrived on the ranches of the Rio Grande.

Known for its loyalty and endurance – hence the phrase ‘ workhorse’ – the horse is still used to get to places no vehicle could.

There is no better way to pass through the US countryside than on horseback, close to the elements and at one with nature.

It’s possible to ride with cowboys on an authentic cattle ranch in Arizona, while in Guerneville, California, you can travel in a group or enjoy a private ride through the forests of Austin Creek State.

Horses can really take you back to nature, so saddle up and take a look at the suggestions on Experience Gifts.com