Cow Country

[RanchRoper]

In the forestry reserve checking cows just north of the Crowsnest Pass. My wife didn't go as it was very cool and with a rainy mist. So only took a couple of pics. I did put a makeshift rifle cover together from an old pair of chaps I had. Just cut a piece out, and made a half boot that just slides over the stock but I can still flip it up and get my Henry out quickly. It isn't real pretty but it kept the rifle dry.

[Deadwood Dutch]

Thanks for the nice photos, that is a good idea for a rifle stock cover.

[RanchRoper]

It's functional. I'll oil it up to help waterproof it and it's good to go.

[PT7]

Beautiful pics, and glad you gave Badger a break! Dakota stayed at home?
"Pretty" isn't where it's at when you want to keep the Henry dry....looks like a good covering.

Is the pass unpassable in the winter time?

[RanchRoper]

There are days when they close the hwy thru the Pass in winter. It connects Alberta and BC. Snows and blows so bad you can't see 10 feet.

Fish and Wildlife guys were up there today tracking tagged grizzlies. They keep an eye on bears that have been around town and had to be moved. I saw tracks of 3 or 4 different size bears today, and some fresh ones too. Also some wolf tracks.

[RanchRoper]

Here's another pic from yesterday morning. Helps you appreciate the challenge in looking for or gathering cattle. There is an enormous amount of bush, steep hills, deep draws, and rocks to navigate in this part of Alberta. Tough country on horses.

[CT_Shooter]

I always enjoy your reports and photos from Cow Country, RanchRoper. Thanks.

[RanchRoper]

Pics from the forest reserve just about 10 min south of our ranch. My wife took the photos but I actually got her in one. I rode Dakota and she rode Badger. One pic is of the cattle owner checking out my Henry. I don't think he wanted to give it back. Mostly we were just checking cows and calves. A grizzly killed a calf yesterday. We didn't see the bear but the magazine was full just the same. One pic has me getting after a calf that was outside the fence so we just put him back in. Don't need any more bear meals out there alone. Dakota can move when I need him to. Hope you enjoy. Fall was in the air today.

[RanchRoper]

More.

[RanchRoper]

More.

[White Squirrel]

Beautiful country. Thanks for sharing.

Guess that bear is trying to fatten up before winter. Glad you have the Henry along.

[RanchRoper]

I didn't see the carcass but the owner said it looked like the bear had grabbed it by the snout with his mouth and crushed it's skull. Game over for a 300 lb calf.

[PT7]

Great photos in your Saturday spread -- very nice. I enjoyed looking at all of them.
Especially so the hillside, the woods, and you on Dakota in this one: http://henryrifleforums.com/download/fi ... d=2321&t=1

Ah, the fragrance of "fall in the air today." Looking for that here, hopefully soon, in Missouri.

Glad the cattle owner gave your Henry back.

Pics from the forest reserve just about 10 min south of our ranch. My wife took the photos but I actually got her in one. I rode Dakota and she rode Badger. One pic is of the cattle owner checking out my Henry. I don't think he wanted to give it back. ..... Dakota can move when I need him to. Hope you enjoy. Fall was in the air today.

[RanchRoper]

ya he REALLY liked my Henry. Never seen one before. Had to tell him "please don't cock it, she's loaded!"

[RanchRoper]

Just returned from my usual Sunday morning ride. My wife snapped this photo. Badger getting his winter hair and some extra pounds too. Cool morning when I set out so first time wearing the woolies this fall, they are toasty warm from now on until spring.

The round brass stirrups are called "Oxbows". Not too many people ride them anymore, but you'll still see them on some big outfits in buckaroo country; Nevada, Oregon, and parts of Idaho. Guys use them on colts, as they are a little easier to keep your stirrup if a young horse throws a fit. The downside is, you can get hung up in them if you come off too. Mine are wider than the normal ones so I can get my boots out quick if a wreck is on.

[Deadwood Dutch]

Really nice photo, thanks, you look great on your horse!

[RanchRoper]

He'd make anybody look good, he's a pretty unique individual. Thanks.

[JEBar]

that photo brings back good memories from many years ago .... unfortunately, I'm no longer physically able to spend hours/days in the saddle but the memories of doing so are happy ones

[RanchRoper]

Good Lord willing I believe I have a few good years left in me...

[CT_Shooter]

Nice portrait of Badger! Thanks, RR.