Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak.   Granted, I have only traveled to a few places in Europe and across the United States, but it seems as if no matter where I’ve been, I’ve always come across a horse. Yes, cows too, but I’m speaking specifically of horses. Naturally, I got to thinking, how have horses evolved into what they are today and how is it that they’ve been so helpful and kind to us?

Apparently, around 5000 BC, horses were used for sacrifice as well as a food source. Sometime between 4200BC and 2500 BC, horses began their journey toward domestication. It wasn’t until about 2000 BC that horses were being utilized for chariots and carriages. I guess it took that long for humans to realize how powerful and majestic these beings were (and still are). From that point forward, horses have been our partners in war, farming and transportation.

Clearly, that was my very short version of horse history. I want to spend more time sharing with you some places you can go to experience the great outdoors…on a horse! It’s one of many ways we can enjoy the colorful state we live in. Most stables, at least in Colorado, are family owned and a great way to spend time alone or together, support local businesses and take in the view from a different perspective.

Old Stage Riding Stables in Colorado Springs. High Country Trails in Granby. Cowpoke Corner Corral in Estes Park. Mile Stables in Aurora. Bear Creek Stables in Morrison. Bear Mountain Stables in Conifer. Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides in Boulder and Rusty Spurr Ranch in Kremmling just to name a few. A lot of the stables are worth researching before heading out. Some require reservations, others include a picnic, private or longer rides. Quite a few of them also offer accommodations. You can make a day, a weekend or a week of it.

Other than my travels, I have always heard people tell me how great it is to work with and ride horses. It wasn’t until I got on a horse myself that I truly experienced that sense of bond and freedom all at once. My suggestion to you? Even if you prefer not to touch a horse, simply sit back, admire them and be open to the things they too can teach us. It isn’t difficult to sense and see for yourself the true beauty and power of such an amazing animal.

(Originally published in the December 27, 2018, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)