Horseback Riding in Payson

So Nate does a lot of outdoorsy things. Hiking, climbing, cycling, kayaking, canoeing...you name it! Since we've met, he has introduced me to these activities and more. And I have grown to love them almost as much as him. But I had a leg up on one activity...horseback riding!  When we heard his friend John had the hook-up with a ranch, I was psyched! I could finally introduce Nate to an outdoorsy activity! So we met up with Mary and Zane and headed down to Payson. Here are some a ton of photos of our adventure.

Finally got to use my best thrift store purchase ever. Also, best idea ever to wear these. Kept my feet (slightly) more warm and out of the mud, snow and poop!

 The Man from Snowy River in real life. 

One of the most beautiful scenes of my life.

 The horse whisperer ;) 

The owner had us corral and halter each horse ourselves. An amazing experience!

 Zane is here making lifelong promises to his horse ;)

This dog made me want a dog! 

 A real natural.

 So sweet!

 Literally living my dreams right here.

 Mary!

 John. Thanks for getting us the hook-up!

 Zane.

Our trusty guide, Lane. One of the coolest people I have ever met.

He took us  on a mountain ride. 

So beautiful and one of my favorite things I have done in Utah.

I did not take many photos while on the mountain trail. It was just one of those moments where I realized I should try and take it all in and not experience it through a lens.

 Socks. Isn't he a beautiful horse??

That evening, Nate and I were talking about our day and made a wonderful realization. Lane and his family live a normal life of average means. But they live their dreams! Because they are passionate about horses, they have made that a priority. This leads us to believe that we can reach our dreams, it just takes work.

We absolutely loved horseback riding and are planning our lives to include a barn and some horses. We can't wait to go back!