8 Mile Trail

We had a crew out to help us move the cattle across the Plains this week.

The guys saddled up as the sun rose and I prepared the truck with water, lunch and simple amenities that the guys may need during the trail.

I drove to the first gate and waited for a couple hours. Then, on the horizon a couple of miles in the distance, appeared a cowboy and a few cows.

They trailed down the hill with one cowboy leading the way and the others bringing up the middle and rear.

The cattle filed in along the fence line and Patrick counted them as they went through the gate.

They stayed together and kept a steady pace as we crossed the vast landscape. Some calves tried to run back but the cowboys encouraged them to stay with the herd and with momma.

The air was cool and calm for almost the entire trail. But toward the end, the wind picked up and it got warm, fast.

Once we got into the final pasture, the guys led them to the windmill for water. They have to be shown where water is because if you just leave them alone, they will drop their heads and start eating. You have to let them know where the water is and leave them there so they get their bearings and know where the essentials are.
By now, the wind was howling, the heat was rising and the dust was blowing. I could barley hold my camera steady.

I put out the lunches on the tailgate and got the guys fed and watered. The horses had some time to graze while we ate but we weren’t quite done yet. There was one cow that just couldn’t make the long trail. She’s an old lady and had trouble keeping up so we left her at that first gate. We made our way back to get the trailer to load her and her calf and chauffeur them to the pasture with the others..

It took a little convincing with a short chase and a rope. They finally got them both loaded and off to the pasture with the others we went. They will enjoy this pasture until it is time to wean the calves in October.

It was a good day without any casualties or injuries. And it was long day that started at 4am and went until at least 4pm. Then back to the ranch to unsaddle the horses and finish up chores until dark.

Phew! So glad it’s Friday.

See more images from this shoot HERE.

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