They let everyone ride them. They usually ignore their riders and take care of themselves regardless of attempts at interference. These horses may not be the stunning steeds of imagination and dreams but they are steadfast and dependable. Prospective riders can avoid a stable where riders and horses alike are treated in an assembly line fashion. These stables try to get the most work out of their horses in the shortest period of time, with the least amount of money spent on the horse's care.
Unguided rides can be big moneymakers for some stables.
The riders are pushed past a certain point, usually an opening in the fence line, and once the dude riders get past this point they are on their own with the clock running. Lari Shea, the owner of Ricochet Ridge Ranch, has a reputation for her exceptional horses, many of whom have won prestigious 50 and 100 mile endurance races, so I felt fairly certain of a premium riding experience. However, I think what really convinced me was that lodging is at bed and breakfast inns each night, with catered meals and fine California wines. I wanted to ride hard during the day, but I liked the idea of being very comfortable at night. Hey, they offered hot tubs daily, live entertainment three evenings, and bragged about their parties.