We went horseback riding for 1 1/2 hours in a state park here. It was just us and the guide. We had a great time and could even walk the next day! Beautiful high desert scenery and a few creeks to cross. Even the horses were not your typical trail horses with one speed until they see the barn. These actually had several speeds depending on the terrain and could have cared less about the barn. They really wanted to stay out so they could eat the mesquite which they apparently love, but are not supposed to have too much. They were really quick though at sneaking a bite along the trail. Yes, Sarah, Dad really does get on a horse and here is the picture to prove it!
Today, we had the sheep run through the park. They run them through a wash in the middle of the park, but unfortunately they did it before sunrise and no one knew about it. They were resting them by the river until after lunch, so we walked down to the river to see them. These come from southern Arizona and go up to Williams AZ. There were 5 pack donkeys to carry the gear. Here are two of them grazing.
There were 5 herding dogs to do all the work and all of them were very soundly sleeping when we were there. And there are 3 Latino gentlemen that spoke a little English and they walk the whole way! This is hundreds of miles that they travel in very hot and dry conditions. And then of course there were the sheep and lots of them. They were going to cross the river after lunch and head further north. This is an annual event. That is one of two black sheep in the herd and this was just one small part of the herd.
We had a great Mexican dinner with our friends Paul and Sue that live in the area. We are meeting them again tonight for BBQ. There is always food involved when friends meet on the road!
We don't have much else planned for our time here. Just relax, walk and ride bikes!
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