Another year passes. 
The trail ride to Flagstaff, AZ topped this year's highlight reel. Heart rates escalated the higher we climbed - and they say riding gaited horses doesn't qualify as an aerobic activity.  One comment from the group during our descent from the mountain was "Look - we were way up there!"  Always a beautiful place to ride, whether on Mt. Elden or out in the wilderness toward Sedona, I recommend this area for a pleasant summer ride.  Layer your clothing - cool mornings give way to warm afternoon that turn chilly  as soon as the sun drops behind the mountains.  Summer squalls come and go fairly fast, so light rain gear is appropriate.   The tanks don't always retain enough rainfall, so pack a bit of water along for you and your horse if you're going out for the whole day. Lowlanders need a day or two to give your horses and yourselves time to get used to the elevation for a long ride.
Ride on!