Natural Horsemanship School

5.0 (4)
5 days 4 nights
USA
Photo James M.
5.0
James M.
Tour Provider
View James’s tours
Difficulty
Easy
Comfort
Midscale
Weight limit

This tour is perfect for riders who wish to explore the quiet messaging that horses and the natural world express while in the wild lands bordering with the Gila National Forest in New Mexico.

Understanding these attributes is the foundation of our Natural Horsemanship School. We instruct on methods and approaches to establish trust, safety and a balanced connection with your horse. Your bond with your horse has the potential to develop into something wonderful and unexpected. The most gratifying outcome for us is to see your horse become a lifelong friend and companion.

from
$1,500
per tourist for 5 days
Departing from
New Mexico, Catron County, Glenwood
Available dates
Date of travel
Number of individuals
Only in the Horse Tours Club
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Photo James M.
James M. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English, German
My expertise in horsemanship training and leading wilderness pack adventures enables me to share the knowledge I've acquired from spending the majority of my life on horseback in remote, wild conditions. Navigating challenging terrain influences the structure of my workshops to ensure a safe, stable and sustainable experience for both horses and riders. Discover the advantages of a strong bond between horse and rider through practical, real-life lessons that can enhance your overall well-being.

Tour highlights

Train Your Skills
You will learn how to pack and properly load mules, equine first aid, understand the horse's true qualities and problem-solving on the trail
USA Horse Trekking
Observe the Flora and Fauna of the Wild Lands
This area is truly a bird watchers paradise
Ranch Experience
We are always happy to see new guests!

Route details

Day 1
Observe and Communicate

You can arrive one day earlier and overnight in our ranch. 

The first day is for learning communication. The key to having a safe experience with your horse is being able to observe and communicate effectively. This begins with your ability to observe and then communicate with your horse. Students are taught to develop a non-judgmental mindset for their observations and are also trained in techniques to form a strong bond with their horse.

Dinner and accommodation will be provided at the ranch today and the days following. 

Day 2
Tack and Gear for Sustainable, Long-Term Use
Day 3
Enhance Riding Skills
Day 4
Equine First Aid
Day 5
Plan Your Adventure
Difficulty
Easy
Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age
Tour provider's comments

Beginners
We train towards advancing your skill set to intermediate ability.

Intermediate Riders
We train towards advancing your skill set to advanced.

Advanced Riders
We train towards adding more skills and ability to your experience.

Tack: Western.
Horses: Mules, Quarter horses, Mustangs and Appaloosas.

horse

Accommodation

Comfort
Midscale
Hotel
4 nights
4 nights
Our Guest Ranch

The center of the ranch is our hand-built log home, made from local Ponderosa trees, is the centerpiece of the ranch and offers a cozy and attractive living space. Guests can stay in our attached guest quarters, which include a large bedroom with two queen beds, a spacious private bath and Wi-Fi access. 

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place
New Mexico, Catron County, Glenwood
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Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
  • the forecasts for this season
  • the statistics from previous years’ trips
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Tour conditions

Included

  • meals;
  • accommodation;
  • training.

Extras

  • flights;
  • tax 9.1%;
  • tips and personal expenses.

Group size

up to 10 tourists

Duration

5 days
4 nights

It's important to know

Can I bring my own horse?

Yes, students are welcome to bring their own equine or use ours.

Cancellation of booking

Tour reviews

5.0
Based on 4 reviews
  • L
    Lynn
    21 Feb, 2024
    about provider
    Gosh, what an incredible experience venturing into the wild on muleback! Sally, my trusty mule, was amazing and totally steady on her feet. I loved being fully present, soaking in the changing light of the day and admiring those rare wildflowers in the Gila Wilderness. Sleeping like a log after our long rides and waking up fresh at dawn was bliss. And let me tell you, after living on bland backpacking grub I had to lug around, having real milk in my coffee and butter on toast was a game changer! What made it even better was how flexible the trip was. The crew knew the area and weather so well that plans evolved naturally. This wasn't your run-of-the-mill, cookie-cutter tourist trip. It was a genuine, dynamic adventure. Sure, there are places tailored for comfort, but this was the real deal! And the care for the horses blew me away. Some were even allowed to roam around camp! That speaks volumes about Jim, the leader, and his bond with his animals. I bombarded him with questions about managing such a large herd, but he took it all in stride. Can't wait to come back and explore more!
    21 Feb, 2024
  • F
    Fearless
    26 Sep, 2022
    about provider
    Sorry there aren't higher ratings to choose from ... because this experience easily deserves a perfect score. The Gila Wilderness alone is absolutely mind-blowing ... especially the journeys up & down the middle fork. Jim's team not only provided hearty meals but also spun campfire "tales", taller than the canyon walls we crossed over a 100 times! The horses & mules deserve another perfect score for their incredible sure-footedness and strength carrying our gear! A special shoutout to Cisco, the massive mule who chased bears and craved bread ... and Bombs Away for record-breaking stubbornness ... Charley, my personal "superstar" ... honestly, all of them were a non-stop show. The cliff dwellings were truly inspiring! and Jim M.'s 30+ years of guiding pack trips showcased his top-notch skills, making this adventure one of the most fulfilling escapes you could ever hope for in this crazy world! HCA
    26 Sep, 2022
  • E
    Estefi2
    9 Sep, 2022
    about provider
    A sudden rush of joy in your heart... just imagine the sheer beauty, the amazing things you see & hear... Mother Nature showing off her best, respected and honored by our guide & crew. It's like Yosemite, but without the crowds and totally untouched. Families looking for the ultimate nature experience absolutely NEED to check this out!
    9 Sep, 2022

Dates and Prices

  • from
    $1,500
    23 – 27 Mar, 2025 5 days 4 nights
    Request to book
  • from
    $1,500
    20 – 24 Apr, 2025 5 days 4 nights
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  • from
    $1,500
    25 – 29 May, 2025 5 days 4 nights
    Request to book
  • from
    $1,500
    22 – 26 Jun, 2025 5 days 4 nights
    Request to book
  • from
    $1,500
    20 – 24 Jul, 2025 5 days 4 nights
    Request to book

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