Trails range from easy to moderate. We considered some of the trails to be moderate mostly because we were riding "flatlander" horses who aren't used to climbing hills much bigger than a creek bank! The steeper trails are designed for motor-vehicle access, so there was plenty of room to ride side-by-side. Some of the trails were very rocky, so I was glad that our horses had on fresh shoes. The ranch itself is about 700-plus acres, which is plenty big for a full weekend of exploring.
As we were galloping through the hayfield, a startled jackrabbit leaped up underneath Sallie's horse, Wednesday, then crashed his head into the bottom of Sallie's left stirrup, which scared the dickens out of all three of them. He set a new jackrabbit world record for getting across the field and away from us! Jake and Tanner took off in the chase, but it was hopeless.
Leslie gave us the directions to the highest point on the ranch. What a breathtaking view! At the very top is a labyrinth built from rocks. Gary, Carol, Mary, and Rachael worked their horses through the labyrinth without crossing a rock line. In the center, they posed for a photo, imitating Rodin's "The Thinker."
On Saturday night, Mary's Appaloosa, Coco, started showing signs of colic. We quickly got her up and started walking her. Fortunately, there was Banamine on hand. After giving Coco an injection and continuing walking her for 30 minutes, she still hadn't passed manure, so we loaded her into the trailer and "bombs away!" (Isn't it strange how alarmed you are at the onset of colic, and then one little act of nature puts the world right again?)
There are many things that stand out in my mind about SisterCreek. The scenery itself will simply take your breath away. The quaint Old West village makes you feel as though you've stepped back in time, except you still have all the modern conveniences. (There's something to be said for a comfortable bed, a hot shower, and flush toilets!) A beautiful creek runs behind the cabins and saloon. Alongside the creek, the ranch owners have built a lovely little meditation walk-so peaceful and relaxing to the mind and spirit.
The company and camaraderie that my friends and I shared will not be forgotten. The hospitality offered by the management staff at SisterCreek is supreme.
For more information on SisterCreek Ranch, call (800) 324-6525, or visit www.sistercreekranch.com.
