Explore on Horseback

Take in the beautiful scenery of the Kiamichi Valley by enjoying a scenic horseback ride along the Kiamichi River of the Kiamichi Mountains.

Born to a rancher, Austin Dennis at Kiamichi River Trail Rides has been working with horses as long as he can remember. He built his ranch 28 years ago and soon after started giving trail rides to Boy Scouts looking to earn their Horsemanship Badges. About 4 years ago, after taking out some friends who were visiting the valley, he decided to open up his business just outside of Talihina. 

Dennis has qualified for the World Series in team roping and competed in Las Vegas for a title and $300,000 4 separate times. He says he "ain't won a penny yet, and he's still giving trail rides."

Kiamichi River has Draft Cross horses and can accommodate up to 8 riders for either half-hour or hour trail rides. 

Dennis rides his favorite horse, Burrito, who is 7 years old, while his granddaughter prefers to ride Burrito's father. They have a strong bond with their horses that is nurtured through their daily care for the animals.

 https://www.kiamichirivertrailrides.com/

For anyone looking to explore Kiamichi Valley on their own horses, come stay with D'anna at Heaven's Gate Rv Park and Retreat. 

Heaven's Gate offers over 100 miles of trail for equestrians to explore in the National Forest and along Cedar Lake Equestrian Camp. 

D'anna has been working with horses since she was 12 years old and now hosts trail riders. Heaven's Gate opened in June 2019.

D'anna says the most enjoyable part of what she does is taking in the beauty of nature and "being able to enjoy what God gave us." She enjoys spending time alone with her horses, including her favorite horse, a Rocky Mountain Gaited named Maverick. She feels that the time spent together nurtures the connection she has with the horses. 

https://maps.apple/p/bL9CSrdRNCL_Jz

https://www.heavensgaterv.com/