This post is last in a series of three discussing the horse breeds we have at the Rancho.  Our mix of Criollo, Azteca and Quarter Horses has proven to be a successful combination that has delighted and exhilarated our guests for years.

All Quarter Horses.  Known for their powerful hindquarters and unmistakably muscular, compact build, Quarter Horses are true icons of strength and versatility. Medium-boned and well-balanced, they carry a finely chiseled head with a broad forehead and straight profile — a classic hallmark of the breed.

At Rancho Las Cascadas, our Quarter Horses come in a beautiful variety of colors — roan, palomino, grey, grullo, buckskin, and dun — often accented by distinctive markings such as stockings, stars, stripes, or blazes.

Renowned for being sure-footed, agile, and calm, they combine a gentle nature with a steady temperament. Quick to learn and responsive, they require little guidance once they understand their task. These qualities make them ideal for working cattle, competing in events like roping or barrel racing, or carrying beginners safely across Mexico’s open ranges.

Originating from a blend of Arabian, Spanish, and English bloodlines brought to North America in the 1600s, Quarter Horses have long been valued for their reliability and endurance. Easy keepers, they thrive on good pasture or hay — and are famous for their incredible bursts of speed over short distances, reaching up to 50 miles (80 km) per hour.