Chad Finley, at a Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event, divides his time between working on his family's ranch, gathering cattle for other ranchers and competing in professional rodeos.

Riding 2020

Explore Like a local:Horseback riding

Chad Finley

Grant County cowboy

Horseback riding is in Chad Finley’s blood, growing up on the Broken Leg Ranch in Mt. Vernon, he has been riding horses and competing in rodeos since he was 5-years-old.

“I’m sure I was on a horse before I could even remember,” Finley said.

Finley said the countryside of Grant County, with its painted, rolling hills make the area perfect for horseback riding.

“There is just so much to see, it is just a very pretty area,” Finley said.

Finley, who splits his time between working on the family ranch, competing in professional rodeos and gathering up cattle for other ranchers, said he loves horseback riding and that it is an excellent way for folks to relax and enjoy the scenery of Grant County.

“One of the things I love most about horseback riding is just how peaceful it is to be on a horse out in nature,” he said. “It is just really cool to be on a horse, it allows you to see so much more of the country.”

Finley recommends the Logan Valley, located in the Malheur National Forest, as an ideal place for horseback riding.

“Logan Valley will give you lots of opportunities to see a lot of different wildlife.” Finley said. 

Finley said for those who are new to the area or to horseback riding to go with someone familiar to the area.

He said the terrain in the area can get pretty steep and rugged and that it is important to be aware of the landscape.