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| Meet the Graceful Rocky Mountain Horse |
The Rocky Mountain Horse is an American breed known for its gentle temperament, smooth ambling gait, gorgeous chocolate coat and flaxen mane and tail. But there's much more to this versatile saddle horse than good looks!
Developed in the late 19th century in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky, the Rocky Mountain Horse was instrumental in helping settlers traverse the rugged terrain. Over the decades, the breed became popular for its easy-going disposition, comfortable ride and willing nature.
Today, the Rocky Mountain Horse excels at trail riding, driving, pleasure riding and ranch work. Read on to learn more about this beautiful breed!
Rocky Mountain Horse Overview
The Rocky Mountain Horse stands between 14 and 16 hands high and weighs 900 to 1,200 pounds. They have a medium-sized head with gentle, alert eyes and small ears. Their neck is gracefully arched and the body is compact with good bone density and well-defined withers. The back is short and strong and the croup is slightly sloping. The legs are solid with good joints, sloping pasterns and strong, sound hooves.
What gives the Rocky Mountain Horse its signature look is the chocolate or seal brown coat coupled with a pale, almost white, mane and tail. However, many other coat colors are seen, including:
- Black
- Bay
- Chestnut
- Sorrel
- Roan
- Palomino
- Buckskin
- Dun
The Rocky Mountain Horse is good-tempered, people-oriented and easy to train. They are energetic but not hot and have substantial bone and muscle. The breed is hardy with good longevity and often lives and works well into their 30s.
Origin and History
The foundation stallion of the Rocky Mountain breed was a chocolate colored horse with a flaxen mane and tail named Tobe. He was foaled around 1890 in the Eastern Rocky Mountains and brought to eastern Kentucky around 1908. Locals referred to him as the "Rocky Mountain Horse" and his offspring were known as Rocky Mountain Horses.
Tobe sired foals well into his 30s and many trace their Rocky Mountain Horse bloodlines back to him. He stamped his progeny with his chocolate coat, flaxen mane and tail, steady disposition and smooth ambling gait.
The first association for the Rocky Mountain Horse, the Rocky Mountain Horse Association (RMHA), was established in 1986 with a focus on preserving and promoting the breed. Over 25,000 Rocky Mountain Horses have been registered since then.
From the beginning, the Rocky Mountain Horse has been valued as a strong, steady and sensible trail and working horse. They were especially popular during the Great Depression and World War II eras when they continued working farms and providing transportation.
Today, the Rocky Mountain Horse is one of America's favorite trail and pleasure riding breeds and is known for its beauty, temperament and comfortable riding gaits.
Characteristics
Two of the most notable characteristics of the Rocky Mountain Horse are its coat color and unique ambling gait. But the breed offers much more than stunning looks and a smooth ride.
Physical Description
The Rocky Mountain Horse sports a medium-length, dense coat that readily sheds dirt and water. In colder months, they develop a thick winter coat to protect them from harsh weather.
The most classic coat color is a rich chocolate brown coupled with a pale, almost white, mane and tail. This distinctive look comes from the popular founding stallion Tobe.
However, many Rocky Mountain Horses exhibit other coat colors including:
- Black
- Bay
- Chestnut
- Palomino
- Buckskin
- Roan
- Dun
Their hooves are dense and durable with solid legs and well-defined joints. This gives them good shock absorption and minimizes leg injuries when moving over rough terrain.
Overall, the Rocky Mountain Horse has good bone density, strong muscles, and excellent stamina. This makes them well-suited for riding on challenging mountain trails.
Gaits
The Rocky Mountain Horse is best known for its smooth, natural ambling four-beat lateral gait. This speed walking gait allows them to cover ground efficiently while maintaining comfort for the rider.
Each foot hits the ground independently in this gait. So there is always three feet on the ground supporting the horse's weight instead of the two feet that support a trotting horse. This gives an exceptionally smooth ride without jostling the rider.
In addition to the flat walk, Rocky Mountain Horses can perform other ambling gaits like the running walk and canter. They are also able to trot and gallop. Their gaits have been described as floating and exhilarating.
The special gaits of the Rocky Mountain Horse distinguish them from other breeds and make them accessible and comfortable for all levels of riders.
Versatility and Uses
In addition to their good temperament and smooth gait, Rocky Mountain Horses are prized for their versatility and athleticism. They excel at:
Trail Riding
Rocky Mountain Horses thrive on the trail. They have excellent stamina and surefootedness to handle challenging mountain terrain over long distances. Their calm disposition and smooth gait prevents rider fatigue.
Driving
Their active but sensible nature makes them well suited for driving. They are responsive to commands and their comfortable gaits give an enjoyable driving experience.
Pleasure Riding
The easy-going temperament and gorgeous appearance of the Rocky Mountain Horse makes them a stand-out in the show ring. Their flashy movement catches the judge's eye.
Ranch Work
Rocky Mountain Horses are strong and athletic enough for cattle herding and other ranch chores. At the same time, they are sensible and focused.
In summary, the Rocky Mountain Horse breed offers beauty, brains and brawn. Their versatility, soundness and longevity allow them to work well into their late 20s and early 30s. They are truly an all-around family horse.
Rocky Mountain Horse Temperament
The Rocky Mountain Horse is renowned for its steady temperament and people-oriented nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and aim to please.
Most Rocky Mountain Horses are gentle and trusting. At the same time they are energetic, athletic and ready for adventure.
Some key traits of the Rocky Mountain Horse temperament include:
- Sensible
- Kind
- Easy-going
- Gentle
- Willing
- Responsive
- Friendly
These horses have a sensible boldness. They are brave and steady trail mounts but also cautious of unfamiliar objects. They assess new situations but don't overreact.
The Rocky Mountain Horse is highly trainable and eager to partner with people. They make excellent kid's horses due to their kind and patient nature. Their work ethic and versatility also suits them for a variety of equestrian disciplines.
Are Rocky Mountain Horses Good Trail Horses?
With their surefooted agility, smooth gait and sensible nature, Rocky Mountain Horses excel at trail riding. They are trustworthy mounts that provide a comfortable ride over rough and hazardous terrain.
Some of the traits that make the Rocky Mountain Horse an exceptional trail horse include:
Stamina
Rocky Mountain Horses have good endurance and strength to travel 20+ miles per day on the trail.
Soundness
Their sturdy and dense hooves, solid legs, and good bone density allows them to nimbly traverse rocky trails. This minimizes injury risk.
Athleticism
They handle ascents, water crossings, and other obstacles with poise and precision.
Intelligence
Rocky Mountain Horses are attentive with excellent situational awareness to safely maneuver unpredictable trail conditions.
Gentle Disposition
They form close bonds with their rider and aim to please. This makes them responsive and trusting on the paths less traveled.
Comfortable Gait The smooth four-beat lateral ambling gait of the Rocky Mountain Horse allows riders to stay securely seated for many hours.
In summary, the Rocky Mountain Horse checks all the boxes for being an exceptional trail riding companion. Their fitness, agility and comfortable ride reduces rider fatigue so you can enjoy the journey.
Rocky Mountain Horse Health and Care
Overall, Rocky Mountain Horses are hardy, stoic, and require minimal specialized care, especially when compared to other horse breeds. Still, providing excellent preventative care and nutrition is key for longevity.
Some tips for keeping a Rocky Mountain Horse healthy include:
Hoof Care
Rocky Mountain Horse hooves are naturally dense and durable. However, regular trims/shoes on proper schedules keeps them sound.
Dental
Annual dental exams and floatings prevents sharp points that can make biting painful. This maintains appetite.
Vaccinations
Core vaccines like rabies, tetanus, Eastern & Western Encephalomyelitis, West Nile Virus helps prevent illness.
Parasite Control
Daily picking of manure and strategic deworming reduces parasite loads that can rob condition.
Nutrition
Good quality pasture, hay, minerals and concentrates provides complete nutrition for health.
Shelter
Access to shelter from sun, wind and precipitation prevents exhaustion and illness.
While quite hardy overall, older Rocky Mountain Horses can experience arthritis and metabolic issues. Providing joint supplements when stiffness arises can help ease inflammation and may delay retirement.
Are Rocky Mountain Horses Good for Kids?
With their kind and willing temperament, Rocky Mountain Horses make exceptional mounts for children. They are patient teachers that form strong bonds with their young riders.
Some reasons why Rocky Mountain Horses excel as kid's horses include:
Steady Nature
They rarely spook at loud noises or erratic movements common with novice riders.
Smaller Size
Their 14 to 16 hand height makes them accessible for mounting and handling.
Smooth Gaits
Their smooth lateral ambling gaits prevent bouncing that can unseat or scare unbalanced youth.
Eagerness to Please
They aim to follow cues, enabling success for beginning riders.
Intelligence They are attentive riding partners that keep young riders out of harm's way on the trails.
Trainability
Rocky Mountain Horses are highly trainable and respond well to firm, fair handling from small riders.
Of course, adult supervision is still imperative when matching horses to children. But the kind temperament and moderate size of the Rocky Mountain Horse makes them one of the best kid's horse breeds available. They help build confident equestrians.
Buying a Rocky Mountain Horse
Many riders dream of owning a Rocky Mountain Horse. When ready to make this commitment, carefully research breeders and pedigrees. Temperament, training, age and price are also key considerations.
Where to Buy
Reputable Rocky Mountain Horse breeders invest tremendous time and effort into developing bloodlines that produce quality horses. Members of the RMHA adhere to a strict code of conduct for the wellbeing of their breeding stock and offspring. Search the RMHA website to find breeders in your state or region.
Also, ask at nearby barns if anyone can recommend Rocky Mountain Horse breeders that produce excellent using horses. Or peruse your local tack/horse Facebook groups or EquineNow classifieds for those selling registered Rocky Mountain Horses.
What to Look For
- Registration papers confirm the horse’s pedigree
- Conformation indicates athletic potential
- Movement shows correctness and comfort
- Condition reflects care and health
- Personality predicts future performance and partnerships
- Training saves time and prevents problems
- Vet checks identify issues early
Take time making this big decision to get your perfect trail partner!
Participating in Rocky Mountain Horse Events
Connecting with the greater Rocky Mountain Horse community deepens understanding of the breed. It also fuels enthusiasm for ownership.
The Rocky Mountain Horse Association (RMHA) hosts trail rides, breed shows and educational clinics across North America. Participating allows hands-on interaction with Rocky Mountain Horses and friendships with fellow devotees.
Here are some top RMHA events:
International Trail Ride
This 3-5 day camping adventure involves scenic trail rides in select locations like Montana, Colorado, British Columbia, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Riders experience magnificent landscapes with new friends.
RMHA International Show
Exhibitors and spectators converge for this annual show and sale held in November. Females and geldings compete in classes from weanlings to mature horses. The show also includes speed events like barrels and poles.
Breed Demos
Many local RMHA chapters put on demonstrations featuring the gaits and talents of the Rocky Mountain Horse. This lets audiences admire the breed's beauty and athleticism firsthand.
Along with RMHA events, many regional horse expos and fairs highlight the Rocky Mountain Horse breed. Attending these with an equestrian friend or family member can help determine if the Rocky Mountain Horse is the right fit for you!
Why Choose the Rocky Mountain Horse?
For riders seeking a willing and versatile riding horse, the Rocky Mountain Horse has tremendous appeal. They are much more than just a pretty face!
Here's a quick recap of why this all-American breed makes an excellent all-around horse:
✓ Beauty - The chocolate coat and flaxen mane and tail gives stunning curb appeal
✓ Brains - Their intelligence and focus means they are trainable for many tasks
✓ Brawn - With good stamina, strength and hardiness, they handle work
✓ Comfort - Their smooth lateral ambling gaits provides an enjoyable ride
✓ Disposition - A kind yet bold temperament makes them pleasant partners
From weekend warriors to serious competitors, fun-loving families to empty-nest trail riders, the Rocky Mountain Horse suits most owners.
If you seek a willing, exquisite riding horse that turns heads and gives years of enjoyment, then experience the magic of the Rocky Mountain Horse!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of Rocky Mountain Horses?
- Known for being gentle, people-oriented and easy to train
- Sensible, kind, willing and friendly
What gives Rocky Mountain Horses their smooth gait?
- Natural lateral four-beat ambling gait
- Provides an exceptionally smooth ride
Are Rocky Mountain Horses good trail horses?
- Excellent stamina, surefootedness and situational awareness
- Comfortable gait prevents rider fatigue
Do Rocky Mountain Horses have special nutritional needs?
- Quite hardy overall but benefit from quality hay, pasture, minerals
- Joint supplements can help maintain mobility in older horses
What health issues are common in Rocky Mountain Horses?
- Can develop arthritis and metabolic issues in later years
- Otherwise quite robust, long-lived breed
How big do Rocky Mountain Horses get?
- Typically stand between 14-16 hands (56-64 inches)
- Weigh approximately 900-1200 pounds
What colors do Rocky Mountain Horses come in?
- Most popular is chocolate brown with pale mane/tail
- Also black, bay, chestnut, roan, palomino, buckskin, dun
Are Rocky Mountain Horses easy to train?
- Very intelligent, aim to please, highly trainable
Respond exceptionally well to firm yet fair handling
Where do I find reputable Rocky Mountain Horse breeders?
- Rocky Mountain Horse Association website
- Ask local horse owners for breeder referrals
- Check horse sale ads and Facebook groups
How can I connect with other Rocky Mountain fans?
- Attend RMHA sponsored trail rides and breed shows/sales
- Meet owners through regional events and expos
- Join Facebook groups for the breed
Conclusion
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