What's unique about much of New Mexico's horseback riding is its variety. You'll find a broad range of riding terrain, from open plains to high mountain wilderness. In the Santa Fe area, you can ride across the plains of the spectacular Galisteo basin with Santa Fe Detours, 54 1/2 East San Francisco St. (tel. 800/338-6877 or 505/983-6565; www.sfdetours.com). In Taos, you can explore secluded Taos Pueblo land with the Taos Indian Horse Ranch, on Pueblo land off Ski Valley Road, just before Arroyo Seco (tel. 800/659-3210 or 505/758-3212; www.taoshorseranch.fws1.com). In the northwest, in the village of Chama, try 5M Outfitters (no street address; tel. 505/588-7003; www.5moutfitters.com). In the southeast, try Inn of the Mountain Gods, Carrizo Canyon Rd. (tel. 800/545-9011 or 505/464-5141; www.innofthemountaingods.com). If you're looking for a resort horseback riding experience, contact Bishop's Lodge, Bishop's Lodge Rd., Santa Fe (tel. 800/732-2240 or 505/983-6377; www.bishopslodge.com). If you want an authentic cowpoke experience, I recommend the Double E Guest Ranch, 67 Double E Ranch Road, Gila (tel. 866/242-3500 or 505/535-2048; www.doubleeranch.com), in the Silver City area.
