Creek Crossing

Crossing water on horseback is not an uncommon occurrence while ranching. Though horses have good instinctual judgment, is still good to train ourselves how to cross water well.

My buddy Philip is new to riding horses. Being his first time out, and probably last time for a while as he enters seminary soon, I wanted to give him the full experience of riding. 

Clear Creek is a good creek to learn to cross. Especially this year when the creek is flowing pretty slow. 

Judging where to cross is the biggest trick. I'm a rapid guy. If the water is rippling good, it means that there are rocks not too far beneath. This creek is pretty obvious where shallow water is. Rivers can be harder to tell. Calm water usually means deep water. Horses can swim, but it is usually not the preferable option in my book. I've been turned upside down more than once by choosing deep water with a horse that can't swim. That's a long walk home with sopping boots and wounded pride. 

Before you enter in, you want to have where you're coming out already in mind. This worn down bank should work good. 

Just follow the lead. On hot days, I've seen horse intentionally splash water around to cool themselves off. Not to be alarmed. 

It is also good to give your horse his head if he wants a drink. Never know where the next watering hole will be. 

After a successful crossing or two, we headed back to the ranch. Philip took the lead.

Good work.

Crossing water on a horse is fun. Because it adds an extra dimension of danger, it is good to plan your work and work your plan. Clear Creek is good training grounds. Gives the horses confidence and gives us experience. Ranch on.