An exhilarating ride in Lake Lizzie, St Cloud, Florida
On a trip to Orlando, I had the chance to go on a fabulous horseback ride with All Hitched Up Carriage Rides in St. Cloud. Usually, when travelling, I tend to shy away from the advertised horse rides. I have been on too many and often find the horses overworked and very robotic as we follow down the lane, single file, nose to tail. This is especially true in the Caribbean and I end up feeling sorry for the horse and not enjoying the ride.
On this trip, I knew I had some free time and wanted to do something different than attend the theme parks. I did some research and found All Hitched Up Carriage Rides. They are located in St. Cloud, about an hour from the theme parks, and appeared to offer the kind of rides I am used to at Rawhide Adventures in Mulmur, Ontario (aka Peace Valley Ranch).
Rides at both these stables are individualized and cater to your riding skill, comfort and desires that day. The ride is for you and your guests, not a group of random strangers. If it is just you, that is okay too. I find they often bring along 1 or 2 riders from their stables or who board with them which I actually like since I am a social person but the ride is still at my pace and what I want.
All Hitched Up has several rides to choose from. Check out their website (pressing on their name above will open their website in a new tab). I chose the River Splash ride. Communication from Sabrina, the owner, was great from the moment I booked until the day of the ride.
The day of our ride was another sun filled morning in Florida. Sabrina and her crew trailered the horses to Lake Lizzie Park. They brought along helmets and although optional for over 18’s, I choose to wear one for safety. After quick introductions and final tack adjustments, we were off down the trail. It was a peaceful walk and Joker and I became acquainted with one another. We walked down the narrow trail ducking under trees, stepping over fallen branches and urging the horses through muddy pools. Although the bugs weren’t pestering me, they were sure annoying the horses. We tried to trot away from them but not sure that really worked but it was fun. Joker was always sure to tell me where the bugs were landing on him and I did my best to help him out but there has been so much rain lately, it was tough. I am sure Joker was looking forward to getting into the lake to get some relief from the annoying pests.
As we neared the lake, we stopped at the pavilion so I could remove my shoes in preparation for the lake. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but I was game for anything. Just a little further down the trail, we came to Lake Lizzie.
As we entered the lake, it started sprinkling. Rain in Florida can just appear from a clear blue sky and disappear as quickly. We discussed waiting it out but in the end we decided to just go for it. Not quite sure why it was even a question since over the next 20 minutes, I was soaked through from running through the lake. It was exhilarating and I believe the horses enjoyed it as much as I did. I think the ride should be changed from River Splash to River Soak! I have never had so much fun getting wet fully clothed!
This was my first real water ride. I had done an ocean ride in Jamaica but I felt so bad for the horses, I couldn’t relax and enjoy it. Joker really did seem to be enjoying himself and was ready to go at a simple “let’s go” and gentle squeeze. He was rewarded with a nice soak in the lake, bug free.
On our way back we had a nice leisurely canter but I was enjoying the slow pace of walking through the park so we walked most of the way back.
It was a fantastic ride with great company. Thanks Sabrina and company. Also thanks for the amazing photos and videos. The price was very reasonable for what I received. Glad I found All Hitched Up and totally recommend them if you are anywhere near St. Cloud. A real change of pace from the chaotic theme parks.
I have not been compensated for this review or compensated for you clicking on links, so feel free to explore.
