Cape Hatteras offers miles of beautiful shoreline. Walking along the beach during a sunset can be a memorable experience. Galloping through the ocean on a sunny afternoon will be unforgettable!
Horseback riding through and along the woods and shores of Cape Hatteras offers a whole new point of view. Equine Adventures (Equine is Latin for horse) is Cape Hatteras' premier horseback riding destination. Located off Highway 12 in Frisco, about 10 minutes south west of REAL's Buxton Retail Center, is the Equine barn and all of its horses. I had the pleasure of joining the Equine crew for the journey of a lifetime.
Upon arriving at the stables, Sylvia Mattingly, Equine's owner, offered a warm greeting. After signing a quick waiver, we were mounted up, strapped in and ready to ride. My horse's name was Frisco, which was easy enough to remember, as that was the name of the town we were in.
Our trail guide's name was Lacey. From the first step off the ranch, she was friendly and helpful. Whether we had a question about the wildlife and land, or if we needed a stirrup adjusted, she was always there to lend a hand.
Our trip began with a relaxing walk through the Frisco woods. The trail was well maintained and offered a safe path to the beach. Walking through the woods gave everyone a chance to get to know their horse and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Our trip offered sightings of various birds, squirrels, snakes and deer. After 30 minutes through the woods, we came to the sand dunes just before the ocean. The rolling hills of sand mixed with plant life reminded me of a subtropical savannah. After a 15 minute walk towards the ocean, we summitted the final dune and the Atlantic Ocean lay stretched our before us. Simultaneously, off in the distance to our left lay the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in its black and white glory.
Before getting to the beach, we stopped briefly so Lacey could doublecheck that all of our saddles and stirrups were secure. Once this was complete, we were set free on the ocean to explore as we wish. Everyone was given freedom to ride at their own pace. A lover of all things that create adrenaline, I took off with a few of the other riders galloping into the distance, the ocean racing alongside of me. Frisco was galloping so fast that I had to take off my hat to keep it from flying away.
Working up a sweat from so much running, the horses welcomed a short trip in the ocean. It is quite a feeling wading in the ocean on top a horse as the water rushes up and around you. Sitting safely on the horse, only a few drops of water splashed my leg. Mixing some trotting, walking and galloping along the beach (so as not to tire out the horses), 30 minutes flew by and it was time to head back to the barn.
After some serious riding on the beach, the relaxing walk back was welcomed. Taking our same trail in reverse offered new perspective on the nature and wildlife in the Frisco woods. We told jokes and shared stories with the friends we'd made during the trip. Everyone was very friendly, which made the trip that more enjoyable.
Traveling to Cape Hatteras with friends and family who don't kite? If they love the outdoors and nature, book them an Equine Adventure horseback ride. If you're looking to spend a no-wind day with the breeze blowing through your hair, hop on a horse and go for a gallop on the beach. The adventure will be one to remember!
