The Cowgirl’s Benchmarks for Choosing Off-Grid Travel Destinations

Introduction: The Art of Choosing Your Next Horizon

Every cowgirl knows that the call of the open range isn't just about distance from the nearest town—it's about finding a place where you and your horse can exist in harmony with the land, unplugged from the grid. But a beautiful vista can quickly turn into a survival challenge if you haven't vetted the basics: water, forage, and safety. This guide presents a set of benchmarks developed from collective experience among off-grid riders, land managers, and backcountry guides. We'll cover the non-negotiable criteria that separate a rewarding adventure from a dangerous ordeal.

Our approach is grounded in the real-world priorities of cowgirls who travel with horses: ensuring reliable water sources, understanding seasonal weather patterns, and respecting local customs. We avoid relying on star ratings or tourist board promotions. Instead, we focus on what you can observe and verify yourself—either through satellite imagery, local knowledge networks, or a preliminary scouting trip. The benchmarks below are designed to help you evaluate a potential destination before you commit your time, resources, and the well-being of your animals.

This overview reflects widely shared professional practices as of May 2026; verify critical details against current official guidance where applicable. Off-grid travel inherently carries risks, and the recommendations here are for general informational purposes only. Always consult local land management agencies and experienced equestrian travelers for specific advice about your chosen destination.

Benchmark 1: Water Reliability and Quality

The first and most critical benchmark for any off-grid equestrian destination is the availability of clean, consistent water. Without it, your trip ends before it begins. Many beginners assume that a river on the map guarantees a reliable source, but seasonal droughts, upstream diversions, or contamination can render that water unusable. We recommend a two-tier assessment: first, identify at least three independent water sources within a day's ride of your campsite, and second, verify their flow and quality within the season you plan to travel.

Assessing Surface Water Sources

Start with topographic maps and satellite imagery to mark potential creeks, springs, and man-made stock tanks. Contact local grazing associations or backcountry rangers to learn about typical dry-up dates. For example, a spring that usually runs until July may fail by June in a drought year. A composite scenario: one group I corresponded with planned a two-week pack trip along a river in the Rocky Mountains, only to find the river reduced to a trickle in late August. They had to cut their trip short by five days because their alternate water sources, two stock ponds, had also evaporated. The lesson: always have a backup for your backup.

Testing Water Quality

Even if water is present, it may not be safe. We advise carrying a lightweight water filter or purification tablets, but also learning to recognize signs of contamination: algae blooms, dead animals upstream, or a strong mineral taste. In many western US public lands, giardia is a known risk. One traveler I know learned this the hard way after drinking untreated spring water and spending two days sick in camp. Since then, she tests pH and clarity with a simple kit before trusting any source. For horses, be aware that certain algae can produce toxins harmful to livestock. If you're unsure, pack enough water for your animals for at least two extra days.

In summary, benchmark one requires you to have a documented water plan with multiple sources, tested or treated. If you cannot verify water availability within 30 days of departure, consider a different destination.

Benchmark 2: Forage Availability and Grazing Rights

Horses need to eat, and packing all their feed for a multi-day trip is impractical for most off-grid travel. Therefore, a destination's ability to provide adequate, safe forage is a make-or-break benchmark. However, 'adequate' varies by terrain, season, and your horse's nutritional needs. We often see travelers overestimate the carrying capacity of arid landscapes, leading to undernourished animals or conflicts with wildlife.

Evaluating Natural Forage

Begin by identifying the dominant grass and browse species in your target area. Horses thrive on a variety of grasses; a monoculture of a single invasive species may not provide balanced nutrition. In the Great Basin, for example, cheatgrass offers little nutritional value and can cause mouth injuries due to its sharp awns. A composite scenario: a group I know planned a week-long ride through a high desert plateau. They assumed the scattered bunchgrass would suffice, but by day four, their horses were losing weight and energy. They had to cut the trip short and move to a lower-elevation area with more diverse forage. The key is to scout the area in person or via recent photos from other riders to assess the current condition of the range.

Understanding Grazing Regulations

On public lands, grazing is often regulated by permits or seasonal closures. Even if you're not a commercial grazer, you may need a permit for your saddle and pack animals. On some national forests, a 'highline' or hobbling your horse to graze is allowed but restricted to certain areas. We recommend contacting the local ranger district at least two months ahead and asking about current restrictions, fire closures, and any special conditions. One rider I spoke with was fined for grazing her horses in a riparian restoration area, simply because she didn't read the posted signs at the trailhead. Avoid this by getting a map of designated grazing zones.

For private land, you must obtain explicit permission. Many ranchers will grant access for a fee or in exchange for help with fence maintenance. Building relationships with local landowners can open up exclusive off-grid experiences. In summary, benchmark two requires you to verify that there is enough nutritional forage to sustain your horses for the entire trip, and that you have legal permission to let them graze.

Benchmark 3: Safety and Emergency Access

Off-grid travel by definition means being far from immediate help, but that doesn't mean you should ignore safety. A destination's safety profile encompasses terrain hazards, wildlife risks, weather extremes, and the availability of emergency evacuation routes. As a cowgirl, you need to balance the allure of remote wilderness with the practical reality of getting yourself and your horse out if something goes wrong.

Terrain Hazards and Horse Soundness

Before committing to a destination, analyze the predominant terrain type. Rocky slopes, deep sand, or boggy ground can cause lameness or injury. For example, the slickrock of southern Utah is beautiful but can be abrasive to unshod hooves. I've heard of riders who had to abort trips because their horses developed stone bruises after two days on sharp talus. A better benchmark is to test your horse on similar terrain at home first. Additionally, map out escape routes: are there roads or trails where a vehicle could reach you? If not, can you ride out in a day? One veteran packer I know always identifies the nearest trailhead that is accessible to a four-wheel-drive truck, in case she needs to call for a trailer.

Wildlife and Human Encounters

In many off-grid areas, encounters with bears, mountain lions, or venomous snakes are possible. We suggest researching the typical behavior of local wildlife and carrying appropriate deterrents (bear spray, bells, etc.). However, a less-discussed danger is human interaction: illegal marijuana grows, meth labs, or simply hostile locals. A composite scenario from the Pacific Northwest involved a solo rider who stumbled upon a clandestine grow operation. She was able to leave unharmed but lost her sense of security for the rest of the trip. To mitigate this, check local crime reports and talk to rangers about any recent incidents. Avoid destinations known for such activities.

Weather is another critical factor. Sudden storms, lightning, flash floods, and extreme heat can all turn a pleasant ride into a crisis. We recommend checking historical weather patterns for your travel window and having a flexible itinerary. For example, in the Colorado Rockies, afternoon thunderstorms are common in July; plan to be in a safe camp by noon. In summary, benchmark three requires you to have a safety plan that includes terrain assessment, wildlife awareness, and at least two reliable escape routes.

Benchmark 4: Cultural and Community Respect

Off-grid travel often takes you through lands with deep cultural significance—whether Native American reservations, historic cattle ranches, or small rural communities. The benchmark here is your ability to travel with respect and ensure that your presence is welcomed rather than resented. A cowgirl's code of honor includes leaving the land better than you found it and honoring the people who have lived there for generations.

Understanding Land History and Permissions

Start by researching the indigenous history of the area. Many popular off-grid destinations in the West overlap with ancestral lands of tribes such as the Navajo, Ute, or Shoshone. Some of these lands are now managed as tribal parks, which require permits and have specific rules. For example, the Navajo Nation requires a permit for backcountry travel, and drones are strictly prohibited. Ignorance of these rules can lead to fines or being asked to leave. A composite scenario: a group of riders crossed a boundary onto tribal land without realizing it, and were stopped by a tribal ranger. They were given a warning but felt embarrassed at their lack of preparation. To avoid this, we recommend using maps that show tribal boundaries and contacting the tribal tourism office if you plan to cross or camp near their land.

Engaging with Local Communities

Rural communities often have a strong sense of stewardship over their surrounding lands. Stopping by the local feed store, diner, or gas station to introduce yourself can yield invaluable advice and build goodwill. I've heard stories of ranchers allowing riders to use their spring or even a corral for the night, simply because the riders took the time to ask. Conversely, travelers who barrel through without engaging can strain the relationship between visitors and locals. One rancher in New Mexico told me she used to allow riders to cross her property, but after a few incidents of gates left open and trash left behind, she now posts 'No Trespassing' signs. Your behavior directly affects future access for everyone.

In summary, benchmark four is about preparation and humility. Learn the cultural and legal landscape before you go, and approach every interaction with respect. This not only enriches your experience but also preserves off-grid travel opportunities for others.

Benchmark 5: Solitude vs. Social Balance

One of the main reasons cowgirls seek off-grid destinations is solitude—the chance to ride without seeing another soul. But too much isolation can be dangerous, especially if you encounter an emergency. The benchmark here is finding a destination that offers enough remoteness to feel wild, yet enough human presence (even if minimal) to ensure someone knows where you are and can help if needed.

Assessing Traffic Levels

Start by researching how many other visitors the area receives during your intended travel period. National park backcountry permits often have quotas, which can give you an idea of usage. Some wilderness areas are so popular that you may encounter other parties daily, undermining the solitude you seek. On the other hand, some Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas are vast and see very few visitors. A composite scenario: a rider chose a remote canyon in Utah expecting total solitude, but it turned out to be a popular route for guided llama treks. She ended up sharing her campsites with strangers, which was not what she had in mind. To avoid this, check social media groups or forums for recent trip reports and ask about crowd levels.

Planning Communication Check-Ins

Even if you want solitude, we strongly recommend leaving a detailed itinerary with a trusted contact at home. Many satellite communicators (like inReach or SPOT) allow you to send check-in messages from the backcountry. Some destinations have irregular cell coverage on ridges; knowing where you can get a signal can be a lifeline. One rider I know always plans her route to pass near a high point with cell service on day three, just to send an update. In summary, benchmark five encourages you to choose a destination that offers the level of solitude you desire while ensuring you still have safety nets. It's a personal balance, but one that should be deliberate.

Benchmark 6: Legal Trail Access and Permits

Off-grid travel often means riding on a patchwork of public and private lands, each with its own access rules. A beautiful area may be completely off-limits to horses, or require a permit that is difficult to obtain. The benchmark here is verifying that you have legal, unobstructed access to the trails and campsites you plan to use, and that you understand the permit process well in advance.

Trail Designation and Horse Restrictions

Not all trails allow horses. Many wilderness areas, national parks, and even some state parks restrict stock use to protect fragile soils or reduce conflicts with hikers. For example, some sections of the Pacific Crest Trail are closed to horses during certain seasons. A composite scenario: a group of riders planned a multi-day loop in a national forest that included a segment through a designated 'wilderness study area' where mechanized and stock travel were prohibited. They didn't discover this until they arrived at the trailhead because the map they used didn't show the distinction. They had to reroute, adding 20 miles to their trip. To avoid this, we recommend using the official motor vehicle use map (MVUM) for national forests, and the backcountry map from the managing agency, which clearly marks stock restrictions.

Permit Timelines and Fees

Many popular off-grid areas require a backcountry permit, especially for overnight stays with stock. Permit quotas can fill up months in advance, especially for spring and fall. We suggest starting the permit process at least six months before your planned departure. Some areas, like the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, have a lottery system for certain trailheads. One rider I know missed out on her first-choice route because she applied only two months ahead. She now sets a calendar reminder for the opening date of the permit window. Additionally, be aware of fees: some areas charge per person, per night, and per horse. Budget accordingly.

In summary, benchmark six requires you to have verified trail access and secured all necessary permits before you go. A trip that is planned around legal access is a trip that can actually happen.

Benchmark 7: Seasonality and Weather Windows

Even a well-planned destination can be miserable or dangerous if you arrive during the wrong season. The benchmark here is to match your travel dates with the area's optimal weather, trail conditions, and insect activity. Many off-grid areas have windows of just a few weeks where conditions are ideal for horse travel.

Snowmelt and Trail Conditions

In high mountain areas, deep snow can linger well into June, making trails impassable. Conversely, early fall snowstorms can close passes in September. A composite scenario: a group planned a July 4th trip to the Wind River Range, but that year the snowpack was 150% of normal. Many trails were still snowed in at higher elevations, and creek crossings were dangerously high. They had to change their route to lower elevations. To gauge conditions, we recommend checking snowpack reports from the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and contacting local ranger stations a week before departure. Many rangers will give you a current trail condition report if you call.

Heat, Insects, and Fire

Desert destinations can be scorching in summer, with temperatures exceeding 100°F, which is dangerous for both horse and rider. Additionally, biting insects like mosquitoes and flies can make life miserable, especially in early summer near water sources. Wildfire risk is another serious consideration: in recent years, many popular off-grid areas have been closed due to active fires or unhealthy air quality. We suggest having a 'plan B' destination in a different region or at a different elevation. For example, if you planned a trip to the Sierra Nevada but fire season is early, consider the Oregon Coast Range, which often has cooler, moist conditions. In summary, benchmark seven requires you to research the typical and current conditions for your travel window and have flexible dates or an alternative location.

Benchmark 8: Navigation and Orientation Difficulty

Off-grid travel often means navigating without marked trails or reliable GPS signals. The benchmark here is the level of navigational challenge a destination presents and whether it matches your skills and equipment. Underestimating navigation difficulty can lead to getting lost, especially in featureless terrain or dense forests.

Terrain Complexity and Map Reading

Some areas, like the Great Plains, have few landmarks, making it easy to lose your sense of direction. Others, like the canyon country of the Colorado Plateau, have intricate topography where a wrong turn can lead to a dead-end cliff. A composite scenario: a rider in the Maze District of Canyonlands spent an entire day searching for a route that existed only on the map; the actual trail had washed out years before. She had to backtrack 10 miles. To avoid this, we recommend carrying both a topographic map and a GPS device with preloaded routes. Also, practice navigating by terrain association—using the shape of the land, not just a compass bearing.

Technology Dependence

Many travelers rely on satellite messengers with navigation apps. However, batteries die, devices fail, or canyons block signals. A good benchmark is to be able to navigate with a paper map and compass if all electronics fail. I've heard of riders who had to spend an unplanned night out because their GPS unit fell into a creek. They were fine because they had a map, but it was a wake-up call. We suggest learning basic navigation skills before your trip, and always carrying a backup. In summary, benchmark eight is about honestly assessing your navigation skills against the demands of the destination, and ensuring you have multiple ways to find your way.

Benchmark 9: Load Carrying and Horse Fitness

The distance, elevation gain, and terrain of your chosen destination must match your horse's conditioning and the weight you plan to carry. Overloading or overestimating your horse's fitness can lead to injury or exhaustion. The benchmark here is to plan a route that your horse can comfortably complete while carrying the necessary gear for off-grid living.

Calculating Pack Weight and Feed Requirements

A general rule of thumb is that a horse can carry 20% of its body weight, including the saddle, rider, and pack. For a 1,000-pound horse, that's 200 pounds. If you're carrying a week's worth of food for yourself and supplemental feed for the horse, that weight adds up quickly. A composite scenario: a rider planned a 10-day trip with a pack horse carrying all the gear. She underestimated the weight of hay needed for the pack horse itself, so by day six, the horse was fatigued. She had to abandon some gear and ride more slowly. To avoid this, we recommend using a detailed packing list and weighing everything. Also, consider using lightweight camping gear designed for backpacking, adapted for horse packing.

Conditioning Your Horse for the Terrain

Start conditioning at least six weeks before the trip, gradually increasing the distance and elevation gain. If your destination involves steep climbs, train on similar gradients. One rider I know uses a local mountain trail that gains 1,500 feet over 5 miles to prepare her horses for the Rockies. Without conditioning, a horse can tie up or develop metabolic issues. In summary, benchmark nine ensures that your horse is physically prepared for the demands of the trip and that you are not carrying more than is safe.

Benchmark 10: Leave No Trace and Sustainability

As cowgirls who love the land, we have a responsibility to protect the places we visit. The final benchmark is your ability to travel without leaving a lasting impact—both for the environment and for future travelers. This goes beyond packing out trash; it includes minimizing soil erosion, protecting water sources, and respecting wildlife.

Camp Selection and Waste Management

Set up camp on durable surfaces like rock, gravel, or dry grass, and avoid fragile meadows or riparian areas. Use a portable corral or highline that doesn't damage trees. For human waste, use wag bags or dig catholes at least 200 feet from water. A composite scenario: a group camped in a meadow near a stream for three nights. By the time they left, the area was trampled and manure piles were everywhere. A ranger later found the site and posted a notice that the area was closed to stock camping for the rest of the season. That kind of damage hurts everyone. To prevent this, we recommend rotating grazing areas, using a picket line, and packing out manure if required by regulations.

Fire Safety and Wildlife Disturbance

Many off-grid areas have fire restrictions during dry months. Building a campfire when it's prohibited not only risks a fine but could start a devastating wildfire. Always check fire danger levels and use a camp stove instead. Also, never approach or feed wildlife, and secure your food and grain from bears. In summary, benchmark ten is about your personal commitment to stewardship. A destination that is well-loved can remain pristine for generations if each visitor follows Leave No Trace principles.

Conclusion: Bringing It All Together

Choosing an off-grid travel destination is not a decision to be made lightly. The ten benchmarks we've outlined provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating potential routes, from water reliability to Leave No Trace practices. By applying these criteria, you can avoid common pitfalls that turn dream trips into struggles. Remember that no destination is perfect; you will likely have to make trade-offs between solitude and safety, or between convenience and cultural respect. The key is to be aware of these trade-offs and make deliberate choices that align with your values and abilities.

We encourage you to start your planning early, gather as much local knowledge as possible, and always have a backup plan. The off-grid life is rewarding precisely because it demands self-reliance and careful preparation. As you ride out into the wild, carry these benchmarks with you—they will serve as a compass, guiding you to destinations that truly honor the cowgirl spirit.