The new EXTREME Adventure Week is a true ultimate riding experience, both highly rewarding and extremely physically demanding. One should take precautions in evaluating their own capabilities and bear in mind the challenges one may face before taking part in this adventure.

*PLEASE READ EACH SECTION CAREFULLY!*

Overview

*To qualify to go on this ride you will need to be at least an intermediate rider. This is not for beginner or novice riders.*

During the EXTREME Adventure Week, you will:

• Ride 10- 20+ miles per day
• Ride 6-8 hours per day
• Ride long distances
• Ride on different terrains
• Opportunity to live in a cowboy/ranch style accommodation (Not a resort)
• Experience varying weather patterns

Environment

Arizona is a beautiful, high-altitude, dry climate that has no set weather patterns. We’ve had years where the sun is out all day, and we’ve had years with rain, or hail. You need to prepare for any of these conditions, as our ride doesn’t stop for rain! The terrain on which you will be riding consists of stints of uneven rural dirt roads and trails, mountains, canyons, and rivers. Drink plenty of water, prior to arrival, and remember that the consumption of alcohol greatly increases the risk of dehydration. The elevation of the ranch is at 7600ft, but some rides will go as high as 11,000ft.

Riding Ability

As stated above, the EXTREME Adventure Week is not geared for the beginner rider or individuals who may have health issues. Seasoned horseback riders with cross country experience will be better physically and mentally prepared for this adventure. Horseback riding requires that you have control of your upper body, good strength in your legs and the ability to control the movement of your body while you are on the horse. If you don’t have control of your body, you are at risk of coming off the horse, or at the very least injuring the horse by rocking around on his back. Horses don’t like discomfort any more than we do, and they will respond to protect themselves if they are in pain.

Here is a guide for determining your riding ability:

BEGINNER: A rider with little or no experience. (Not allowed on the ride)

NOVICE: A rider who is comfortable and in control at the walk and/or trot but has limited experience at an extended trot and/or cantering. (Not allowed on the ride)

INTERMEDIATE: A rider who is confident and in control in all gaits including a posting trot, canter and gallop, but does not ride regularly.

STRONG INTERMEDIATE: An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. A rider who is able to post a long trot and is comfortable in cross country riding.

ADVANCED: All of the above plus the ability to handle a spirited horse in open country.

** This ride is geared for adults. Anyone under 18 will need to get approval from the trail boss**

Physical Conditioning

Those who are in above average physical condition are at a much higher advantage when it comes to keeping up on the EXTREME Adventure Week. However, it takes more than pure athletic ability to ride a horse successfully. It is more important that you are conditioned for this type of riding. We highly suggest workouts that increase your inner core strength and exercises that enhance your riding muscles.

Please be honest about your riding ability, weight, personal health conditions and your fitness level. If someone has signed up who is not in the best condition to ride or who does not have the appropriate skills, it can create instances when that rider holds back the entire group. We want every participant to be as successful as possible and enjoy this outstanding experience. Please don’t hesitate to call us to discuss your physical conditions and/or concerns so we can help you assess your skills and ability!

* * We ask that you please evaluate any health problems or medical procedures that you have had and strongly suggest that you receive a physician’s approval if you have any of the following conditions:

•  Heart Problems
• Moderate to Severe Joint, Neck or Back Problems
• Hip Replacement, Knee Replacement, or any other Moderate to Severe Surgeries

Living Quarters

Private cabins are included in the price of $1600. This price is all inclusive. Gratuity and taxes are not included. Each rider will get a private cabin with their own bathroom. If you are coming with someone or as a group we may have you bunk together. 

We run on a generator. You will have electricity from 7am- 2pm and 6pm- 10pm. 

We do not offer ice.  

We have very limited cell phone service and internet. You may even want to disconnect for the week and truly embrace the cowboy lifestyle!

Meals

Sprucedale has a cook, and we provide three meals a day for our guests, family , and staff. The serving schedule is posted daily though it is subject to change. We serve ranch style family meals. If you have a dietary need please contact us so we can see if we can accommodate you.

Thank you for reading our introduction letter, we understand it is a lot of  information and can be overwhelming! Please call or email the office with any and all questions or concerns. We want our riders to be as prepared as possible so each person can make the most out of their experience!

Tiffany Willis

sprucedale@sprucedaleranch.com

Office: (928) 333 4984