I decided to do a short trip this summer because it became apparent to me about a week ago that there would not be a long trip. Today convinced me that after this trip, I will set my sights on doing a longer trip next summer, providing that it’s a cooler and fire-free summer in the Lower 48. Also, I’ll need to find individuals to keep the book project going. All this is a very tall order, taller than me, which is not much considering that 5’2”.

I will prepare for this trip in part by setting dates and letting it be known to those who are currently BLBP volunteers that I’ll be gone next summer for two months.

Alys and Tyra on the Windy Creek trail

My decision was made after just one day of horse trekking. The horses are now tied to the trailer, which is attached to the truck, and within eyesight. I enjoy having them close and would like to think that they enjoy having us around. We who have the horses at home (as opposed to boarding them) have them here.

We decided to camp in a gravel pit alongside the Denali Highway. I have taken to calling this gravel pit the mother of all gravel pits because it’s very large; in fact, it’s so large that it has differing levels and types of gravel. Of course, we have neighbors – they are at the distance.

This morning, after saddling up, we rode over a huge berm and in the direction of the Windy Creek trail. The horses started out at a very brisk trot, even Hrimmi, who has been known to lollygag. At first, Tyra and I were not in unison. I was using Pete’s saddle, and I do slip around quite a bit in it. Today was no exception.

The trail was a narrow dirt road that paralleled willow brush and taiga. There was elevation gain on the way out. In a bit, we had a view of a canyon/gorge, a nearby lake, and the Alaska Range peaks. There were on the trail some creek crossings, so there was ample water for the horses. Oddly enough, they weren’t overly interested in drinking.

There were, as we progressed, fewer and fewer trees. We tied the horses to some shrubs when we stopped for lunch. I do not like Pilot Bread, so I passed on this and filled up on dry fruit. The horses took advantage of the stop and rested quietly.

All picked up the pace returning in the direction of the trailer. I did my Centered Riding exercises as I rode along – finally, Tyra and I were moving in unison.

Tyra is much like Raudi without the attitude. Raudi, being Raudi, will, when out on the trail, do as she pleases. Tyra goes by the consensus model. When I suggest that she take an alternate route, she will do so, unlike Raudi who will let it be known that doing the same is my, and not her idea.

We cannot, because of the lack of trees, highline in this area, so we are going to do day trips.

Tomorrow we’ll do another ride elsewhere. I’m all for this, as are the horses.

Next: 186. 7/7/23: Connecting Further with Horses