In the Saddle: Day 10 of Ranch Life in Swan Valley

Swan Valley, ID

If yesterday was all about friendly competition, today with The Grand Western Tour was all about easing into true cowboy mode.

We started the morning by heading over to Granite Creek Ranch for some horseback riding. After a bit of riding instruction and a proper introduction to our individual horses, we set off in a line through the forests and fields, with the ranch dogs keeping us company and the mountains rolling out in the distance. Our horses had minds of their own, and there were a few good-natured arguments between them along the way, but it made for an unforgettable and genuinely beautiful ride.

We split into two riding groups, one heading out in the late morning and the other in the early afternoon. In between, we were back at Hansen for lunch and some free time, which meant even more pickleball and volleyball, plus a little exploring down by the creek.

The afternoon brought a fun surprise: a spontaneous bonfire kicked off by Miles, where we roasted hot dogs and made s’mores to refuel after all that time in the saddle. There really is nothing better than gathering around a fire with good people after a full day outdoors.

And the best part? Everyone is already buzzing about tomorrow, when we get to see even more horses at the rodeo. Giddy up!