ABOUT THE RIDING

Style of Riding: Western - the horses are schooled to neck rein.

Type of Riding: Ranch Holiday/Centre-Based - Rides are tailored to suit the guest's requirements and can include fast work. Some walking, as the terrain is mountainous however there are plenty of open meadows for good gallops. Cattle work requires use of all paces including sharp turns on the haunches and forehand.

Type of Tack: Western.

Hours in the Saddle: Half day rides are 2 to 4 hours. Full day rides are 5 to 6 hours with a stop made for a picnic lunch.

Riding Ability Required: Novice upward. All levels of riders are welcome during July and August, and families are particularly welcome. You must be able to mount unaided, as there are some day rides where mounting blocks are not available. Bonanza Creek has lots of horses and will match you to the right horse for your riding ability. More experienced riders (Intermediate upward) are welcome at anytime but the months of June and September are reserved exclusively for you. For those looking for a little variety and sport in their riding, team penning can't be beaten. It will test your skills whether you are a beginner or advanced rider.

Maximum Weight: 103kg (16st)

Number of Guides per Ride: 1 wrangler for every 8 guests.

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 1/14.

Looking after the horse: Guests are encouraged to groom and tack up their horse.

ABOUT THE HORSES

The ranch prides itself on the quality of their horses. The herd of 40, mainly Quarter Horses are all well-schooled with good temperaments, with years of ranching experience. Some of the horses you might meet are:

Splash - A horse for those who like a gelding with "go". He has personality, loves to work cows and is a colourful paint. Not a horse for those who want to hold back.

Dundee - 15hh, dun gelding. A well mannered "all round" ranch horse. Dundee is happy to just walk along or go when asked. He has lots of good cow sense.

Teq - 15hh, palomino. A horse with loads of go and personality. A really fast walker.

Rusty - 16hh, chestnut gelding. A real gentleman, Rusty will happily take care of beginners or move along for intermediates.

Cowboy - a black gelding with a white star that loves cow work and team penning. Calm enough that intermediates can ride

Pete - a good sized black gelding for those over 15st. He is a fun horse to ride and often ridden by the wranglers. But he doesn't like working the cattle so riders switch to another mount on cattle days.

Tonka - a good looking stout bay that likes to lead the pack with a fast walk. Tonka has a sensitive mouth and is responsive to leg aids. Needs a good and confident rider.

Elko - a horse with a lot of cow sense that likes to prance. For confident riders that like a high energy, good solid ranch horse.