Q:What exactly do you mean by an intermediate rider?
A: You have ridden well over 100 hours, you have ridden
in open country, jumping a little log or ditch won't faze you, you are
quite competent at trotting uphill and downhill. 6 hours riding are no
big deal including trots and canters over varied terrain.
Q: What on earth then is advanced?
A: You can do cross country jumps of over a metre, are
happy to canter downhill, you can cope with steep slopes where horses
have to actually slide, 8 hours in the saddle is a breeze! Get it? A two
hour trail ride where you didn't fall off does not qualify!
Q: Can I hire a horse and just take off on my own for a few
days?
A: In short, no. The hirer would be open to many legal
and insurance pitfalls. From that point of view and also the geographical
problems, it is not feasible. Join a small ride - you will still have
an adventurer's satisfaction.
