Cattle Drive
When people think of the Sea of Cortez community of San Carlos visions of snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, or lounging on the beach come to mind. Participating in an old-fashioned cattle drive probably wouldn’t be on the top of their list however; Billy Martineau and Manuel Escobar make this type of adventure possible.
Operating their horseback riding and hunting business out of the 3,500-acre Rancho el Palmar (Ranch of the Palms), these two cowboys provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the rugged terrain of the coastal mountains. Tours include historical information, discussions on the local plant and animal life all the while astride one of their many well-mannered horses.
This working cattle ranch has 600 head of cattle and cattle drives are a necessity, as the herd needs to be relocated to various pastures on this vast property. This is familiar work for Billy, who grew up on a large cattle ranch in Southern Arizona. He was on a horse almost before he could walk and he has spent most of his life in the rodeo arena. He currently focuses on calf and team roping however; it was Saddle Bronc riding that won him the 1991 World Championship in Las Vegas. In fact, his skilled horsemanship took him to the National Finals 19 times!
If a cattle drive is not your pleasure there are many other trail rides that can be tailor made for you and your group. Perhaps you have never been on a horse and are ready to add a new hobby to spice up your life. Maybe you want a half-day ride with a tour of the mountains that ends at a beach side restaurant enjoying tacos for lunch. They will also arrange to have catered lunches or dinners brought to various destinations on the trail. How nice to tie up your horse and have grilled steaks, baked potatoes, and cowboy beans awaiting your arrival.
For those that enjoy the sport of hunting Rancho el Palmar (http://ranchoelpalmar.net/) offers deer and javelina hunts November through January and dove hunts at a nearby ranch are offered September through December.
No matter what your pleasure, Billy and Manuel aim to please their guests and this is one ranch where you can have it your way. Happy Trails!
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