Horsing around (literally) at the Disney World American Idol Event

February 12, 2:36 PMOrlando Theme Parks ExaminerBarbara Nefer

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If you've been following my whirlwind Disney tour during the media event, you probably realize that it's been exhausting (FUN but exhausting). But I was able to get away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks one morning, and guests and locals can do the same any time. I headed over to Fort Wilderness and saddled up for a peaceful trail ride at Tri Circle D ranch.

Most people think of mechanized rides when they think of the Disney theme parks, but there is plenty of old-fashioned horsepower too. The trail rides are suitable for just about anyone, according to Robin, a Cast Member at the ranch who was kind enough to chat with me.

"We get people who have never been on a horse before all the time," Robin said. "Some have never even seen a horse. Others have kids who are taking riding lessons, but they've never ridden themselves." The only restrictions are that guests must be at least 9 years old and 48 inches tall, and there's a weight limit of 250 pounds.

The rides move at a sedate pace through lovely wooded trails. I took the 8:30 a.m. ride, which is your best bet for cool weather in the summer time, as well as for avoiding those infamous Florida afternoon thunderstorms (you can also book a ride at 11:30, 1, and 2:30, and a 4 p.m. outing may be added in the busy times). I always enjoy being on horseback, and as an extra added bonus we saw two herds of deer and several wild turkeys. Talk about feeling like you're miles and miles away from Epcot and the Magic Kingdom, even though they're both relatively close at hand. You can see me on my mount, Shadow, in the photo above right. He took great care of me; the Disney horses are all used to beginners and will help anyone have a safe and enjoyable ride.

To book your own horseback adventure, call 407-WDW-PLAY. The price as of this writing is $42 for a 45 minute ride, although that is always subject to change.

Meanwhile, check out my report on the American Idol Experience premiere bash by clicking here to see who all I met. You can also click here to read about the show itself, where all seven Idol winners took the stage at once.

Click here to go backstage at the Disney World Florist for a special holiday treat. Click here for my exclusive one-on-one interview with two of the Imagineers who created the Kim Possible adventure at Epcot (probably one of the coolest things I've done lately...the adventure AND talking to them). Click the Subscribe link at the bottom of this article so you'll always know when I post something new. Click here to find out how you can enter to earn a $100 Hanes gift certificate.