In a county once home to the world's most famous cowboy, our love affair with the horse just isn't what it used to be. We'd wager that a fair number of the county's current residents haven't put a foot in a stirrup (outside of a gynecologist's office, that is). And can a person blame them? The hills are alive with the bustle of auto commuters trying to navigate the infamous Orange Crush. So why not get on a horse at least once in your life and take a leisurely lope through a blooming meadow while it's still possible? Country Trail N Riding School is a fine place to get back in the saddle (for the first time). Sporting a menagerie of well-behaved steeds and managed by a group of passionate wranglers, they can guide the most inexperienced riders with a soft touch through up to six different loops around Irvine Regional Park. In the spring, meadows surrounding the stables are in full view of lush rolling hillsides and teeming with mustard-seed plants, fennel and buckwheat. An hour ride will set you back $40.
