Horsing around with OAP

June 27, 1997
Originally published by Fairchild Connection (Fairchild AFB, WA)

About 20 minutes east of Coeur d' Alene, there is a site for guided trail rides, dinner rides, hayrides, and sleigh rides that are sponsored by the Outdoor Adventure Program here.

June 20, active duty personnel and family members were treated to a horseback ride and a steak dinner as OAP put on a trip to Rider Ranch, a family-owned and operated working cattle and timber ranch owned by Robert and Linda Rider, who serve as hosts for all the events.

"Okay let's go find some horses," said Linda, when everyone had arrived. And with that, the guests mounted up and the trip through the mountain woods to the clearing had begun.

After an hour of riding, they arrived at the clearing, where everyone proceeded to chow down on steaks, baked potatoes, salad, bread and dessert. Then came the short return trip to the barn.

"Usually, you want to take short trips like this on horseback before you go on a long one," said MSgt. Guy Smith, first sergeant for 92nd Civil Engineering Squadron. "The long ones really wear you out."

Also offered is a hour-and-a-half ride, a three-hour ride, and a four-to-five hour ride, all depending on the weather and terrain, according to Linda.

The Riders have guided excursions on horseback and wagons for the past 13 years. "We started out with it in order to diversify our farm and get the most out of it," Linda said. The family has owned the ranch and the land since moving there in 1952.

"Our brothers and sisters all grew up here and moved away," said Linda. "Pretty soon, they would all come back one by one saying 'Can we build a house here--this sure is a nice place.' So, we all live out here now."

Several years ago, both Linda and Robert experienced working on a dude ranch. "It was a lot of fun in most ways," Linda said, adding that it gave them the idea to do what they do for visitors now.

The ride season runs from April to November. The weather takes its toll toward the end of the year, according to Linda. "At the end of September, we have to cut back on the dinners out on the trail," she said. "We just do the ride and come back before it gets too cold. Then we eat." They also start earlier, she said. Normally the evening ride begins at 6 p.m.

The quiet, mountain country is a sharp contrast for many visitors, who were impressed, despite the chilly weather as the evening wore on. "This is absolutely beautiful country," guest Lynda Noble said.

It is advisable that long pants and shoes are worn.

The trip seemed to be thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, and more than a few pledged to return.

"What an enjoyable evening," Smith said. "There was a lot to see on the trail. The food was excellent, and the hosts were great. We'll be back."

For more information and reservations, call (208) 667-3373. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance.