Manzanita Mountains Ride

On a beautiful sunny day, myself and two of my riding companions met up in the Juan Tomas Open Space area of the lovely Manzanita Mountains.

I'm always happy to ride here because the trails are less than 15 minutes from my house.

 As usual, I guided the ride, using some of our tried and true trails, along with a few brand new trails just discovered over the past year.

My riding companions are in their late 60s and early 70s and I am honored that they want me in their tribe, since I am only in my early 50's. We are all just grateful to be able to get out on our horses and ride on beautiful trails in nature. We are all very mellow and laid back. I especially appreciate their lack of drama and game-playing. We all accept each other for who we are and just enjoy each other's company.

Yvonne, in her last 60's on her Quarter horse mare Etta Bay. And Gin, almost 75 yrs, riding her grey Arab mare, Mimi.  

Me and my Apache mare.....the One-Eyed Wonder Horse!

I always enjoy riding in the mountains during summer. Lot of shade and green all around!

 Apache and I led the way for most of the day. We both enjoy being out in front.

 Trail Selfie!

 

I always love the views from between my mare's ears.

 We explored off-trail on this day so I could find out what was in this little canyon I had seen on the aerial view maps. It was a wonderful ride. I always enjoy exploring.

We found a great place to tie up our horses for lunch beneath the tall pines.

Apache immediately took a nap.

(Notice the flag bandanas...it was Memorial Day weekend)

 The canyon was truly lovely and picturesque.

Our lunch log was very comfy and surrounded by beautiful forest.

And of course, there was a wine toast with our picnic lunch.

 

After lunch, we rode up to my view spot to enjoy the vistas southward towards the Manzano Mountains.

 And then we continued our ride through groves of lush, green scrub oaks.

Gin on her Arabian mare and Yvonne on her Quarter horse mare.

 

And Apache and I leading the way!

We rode for a couple hours and came back to our trailers parked at the trail head. After untacking and watering our horses, I pulled out some folding chairs and we set them in the shade. We then sat around enjoying some ice cold beers, conversation and relaxation.

What a perfect day!

Life is Good!!