Most of them were mules, actually. I was one of the very few who rode a horse. Honestly, I think they mostly function on auto-pilot and just plod after the one in front. My horse was a bit of an exception because he happily picked up the pace. The mules never broke stride. :-D

All the horses and mules were well kept and healthy with good feet, which is always my first "check" when going trail riding.