After driving over mountain passes and seeing the remaining snow patches atop high peaks, our group of ladies arrived at Wild at Heart Horse Rides in the foothills of the Cascade Range. As we nourished our bodies over deli sandwiches and a perfect light breeze, trip guide and Equestrian Safa Peera opened up about what horseback riding means to her. She shared stories of her connection to horses, taught our group about the Sunnah of being on horses, and recited the dua for riding on horses. Others shared about what horses have taught them about themselves and their relationship to our Creator. Amidst the sounds of horses naying and saddles being mounted in the background, we readied ourselves for our journey ahead.

After a short lesson from Erin and her wonderful team, we were off! Our time on the trail was spectacular. The colors of the horses were stunning and diverse. The afternoon light penetrated the white pine forests we ventured through, creating slow moving movie-like moments of solitude. We spotted beaver dams, and tree trunks that had been marked by bear cub claws. Butterflies fluttered among the forests’ late spring wild flowers. Any pre-trail worries we may have had withered away and remembrance of the Divine became our drink. Two hours later we unmounted, gave our horses a well deserved treat, and brushed them down.

We ended our day with scrumptious snacks and congregational prayer upon a picnic blanket spread out over the green grass. Days have passed since we mounted horses outside of Leavenworth, however, the sights, sounds, and satisfying feeling of a little leg soreness have yet to fade. Alhumdullilah for the creation of this beautiful beast—the horse—who has been subdued for the needs of humans.