On Horseback

	Tubares is a very isolated community along the Rio Fuerte. These two bells are located alongside the graveyard while restoration on the church proceeds. A casting defect resulting in a large crack (one of two in that bell) can be seen on the right. The bell on the right contains an 1802 date - the left one is dated 179??.
	Yes - this is a trail! At this point, it's not loose rock fortunately. High above Guadalupe-Coronado, we descend to cross the river. This is but a small part of a very wide panorama.
	Over three thousand feet of descent left both horses and riders hot, sweaty, and dusty. Although this was the dry season and the river level was low, a couple of eddies contained deep pools. Andy needed only gentle coaxing before he was swimming - his rider even less!
	Above Los Alisos and Pandito en route to Terreros, we finally hit a level stretch of trail. Having climbed 500 meters in a steep and relentless grade, our horses eagerly take a drink.
	Rocky and steep - this is a normal trail in the back country. When the weather is hot, an early start is necessary. Trails like this are common and no attention is paid to the grade. Laid out in as straight a line as possible, these trails waste no time in climbing or descending.
	Leaving the ranch, the trail climbs for approximately 1500 feet until reaching the rim of the canyon above Arroyo Hondo. From here it is over a mile down to Urique. The descent into Arroyo Hondo is steep and potentially dangerous. Local travelers have erected a cross to look over those who continue on. To ensure your good luck and safety, you should pick up a rock and contribute it to the pile.
	Many of our trips involve youngsters - particularly those who have some riding experience. This girl was totally at home as we rode the countryside around the ranch.
	Above Pandito we pass a long-abandoned ruin that has mostly succumbed to the elements. Only the walls and the color of bougambilia suggest that someone once lived here.
	Below Arroyo Hondo, this old bridge used to be the only way to cross the streambed during high water. Now a suspension bridge exists nearby. Cables and cement were packed in by people and pack animals.
	On the way back home, our group stopped by the river to take a break and adjust the loads. A couple of curious boys had been watching us from across the river. Finally they overcame their shyness and moved in for a closer look
	A section of the trail to Naranjo passes through trees filled with bromeliads.
	A few hours of riding followed by a meal and this young rider has had enough - even if the bed is strung with rawhide and without springs.
	The rocky condition of the canyon trails is tough on horseshoes. Shoes quickly wear down and nail heads are ground off. There is no telling when a light ringing sound will signal a loose shoe. Wranglers carry spare shoes and nails and deal with problems on the spot.