As majestic as its name, the Rocky Mountain Horse is assuredly "a breed apart." Its blend of gentle temperament, willingness to please, and inherent sociable nature is unique in the gaited, equine world.  The Rocky Mountain Horse is a breed developed from Appalachian horses that were carefully bred and maintained in relative isolation from other horse types in the USA.

Tradition has it that around the turn of the century a young horse appeared in eastern Kentucky that gave rise to a line of horses that have been prized and treasured ever since.  Naturally, out-crossing with local horses did occur but the basic characteristic of a strong genetic line has continued.  These horses are now known as the Rocky Mountain Horse.

The basic characteristics are a medium-sized horse of gentle temperament with a consistently even, smooth four beat gait.  This gait has made it the horse of choice of farms in the rugged foothills.  It could pull plows in small fields, work cattle, be ridden bareback by four children to the fishing hole, or to town comfortably on Saturday.  The Rocky Mountain Horse's natural hardiness allows it to tolerate harsh, cold weather with minimum shelter.

The Rocky Mountain Horse is one of the finest naturally occurring breeds and it may be trained to compete in any horse related activity.  As a show-horse the breed is rapidly gaining in popularity because of its beauty and unique way of moving in the ring.  No harsh training or artificial techniques are allowed.

The Rocky Mountain Horse has tremendous stamina and is sure-footed on rough ground.  Because of the smooth gait, both horses and rider require a minimum of effort while riding.  Together they can cover a greater distance with less tiring.  These characteristics are making the Rocky Mountain Horse increasingly popular for endurance riding, as well as for the trail.