Rocky Mountain, Kentucky Mountain and Spotted Saddle Horses originated in the Appalachian Mountains. They have a lateral four-beat gait which is much smoother than a trot. The lateral gait is called the “Running Walk,” which means the horse has one foot on the ground at all times. There is no “Moment of Suspension” when the horse trots because the movement of the gaited horse is much smoother than that of other horses. There is no up-and-down bouncing, which is hard on the rider’s joints and back; the motion is a forward-and-backward movement and there is very little movement of the rider.  With gaited horses, even their canter is very smooth, and transitions from one gait to the other are almost seamless.

 

WHY GO GAITED?

Gaited horses are the perfect choice for Baby Boomers or anyone with back or joint issues.  If you are in search of a smooth-gliding ride, search no further! There is very little jarring motion when riding a gaited horse compared to when a horse trots. There is no need to “Post-the-Trot” as the body of the horse absorbs the movement. Check them out on YouTube and see for yourself.

 

PHYSICAL TRAITS & TEMPERAMENT 

The Rocky Mountain and Kentucky Mountain horses are famous for their gorgeous colour and beauty. They are noted for their “Silver Dapple” colouring – a platinum mane and tail, with a chocolate body that becomes dappled in the summer months.  They are among the most beautiful and flashy horses in the horse world!

Their beauty, however, pales in comparison to their willing, friendly and co-operative natures. They are known to be intelligent, easy to train, and love to be with people. They are the first ones to approach in the field and are very easy to catch; in fact, you don’t usually have to catch them, they come to you!