Books We Love: Horseback Riding in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks

Horseback Riding in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks by Dana P. Damron (SweetGrass).

The scenery of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks is indescribably gorgeous, and one of the best ways to enjoy the extraordinarily varied scenery of both primeval reserves is on the back of a horse. Author and equestrian Dana P. Damron shares his expertise and insight on riding on some of the most scenic trails at the parks in his new book, Horseback Riding in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. 

Most of the trails in Glacier and Yellowstone were created decades ago when horseback riding was much more common.  Consequently, most of the trails in both parks are well-suited for horseback riding.  Trails that ascend elevation usually have nice, wide switchbacks to make it easy for horses to travel.  Damron’s book is a guide to those switchbacks and to other out-of-the way routes that lead to glorious views.  

In addition to chapters on the proper equipment to take on the various rides and tips about the wildlife one might encounter, there are chapters about the various trails available for riders to take.   Among the trails outlined in Horseback Riding in Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks are those from Dawn Mist Falls, Cracker Lake, and Swiftcurrent Pass in Glacier National Park, to Bighorn Pass, Agate Creek, and Belcher Meadows in Yellowstone National Park.  The beautiful color photographs sprinkled throughout Damron’s book make it hard to resist wanting to ride to those exact spots and witness the glaciers and forests for yourself.  

Reviewed by Chris Enss, COWGIRL Book Editor, and a New York Times best-selling author who writes about women of the Old West.