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Our horseback riding program is based on the Buck Brannaman style of horsemanship, and is the central activity at McGinnis Meadows Ranch. With our large herd of well taught ranch horses, we can accommodate anyone from the beginning rider to the experienced riding enthusiast. We will match you with a horse that best suits your skill level, or you can make special arrangements to bring your own. Also our tack, Kent Frecker and McCall saddles are custom made to fit both horse and rider for comfort.

With personalized instruction from our team of experts, you'll soon feel comfortable heading out on cattle drives, exploring country in any direction from the ranch, and learning to work cattle sorting cutting, and ranch penning. You are welcome to ride and experience as much as you wish.

You will quickly become familiar with your horse through the hands-on horsemanship lessons taught by our experienced wranglers. We educate and ride our horses based on the Vaquero tradition, which is a method that is both gentle and effective and creates a unique kinship between horse and rider. We believe that by taking advantage of the horse's natural instincts we are able to gain their trust and loyalty.

The Brannaman style of horsemanship was featured in Robert Redford's 1998 movie, *The Horse Whisperer.* Our good friend and teaching mentor, Buck Brannaman, was the technical advisor and Redford's stunt double for this film. See our Special Weeks page for dates and details on Buck Brannaman Ranch Clinics, colts starting, and horsemanship from the ground up.

*Due to stress on our horses, we ask that people weighing over 240 pounds do not participate in the horse program, or make prior arrangements.

*We do not offer a structured children's program; however, special arrangements can be made.

*No pets allowed.