Goverland Stage Stop: Public Horse Riding at Kanopolis Lake

By Lisa Quested

Doje Kosek and Walt Gove

Since 2002 Walt Gove, owner, horse trainer, guide and story teller has operated this public horse riding facility.

From the black Hills of Dakota, Walt rode south with his string of horses. He had word form some lost buffalo hunters that an opportunity was available for commercial horse back adventures on the east shore of the camping area. (Sounds like one of those infamous tall-tale stories coming on………)

The location was perfect. The route to the stables had been dedicated a “scenic by way,” suitably complementing the beauty of the riding trails. Kanopolis Lake drew thousands annually. With a pool surface of 3,400 acres, recreation and fun was sure to be found.

The area is filled with old west history. Natives lived along the river. Settlers’ trails led off to the west. Local forts harbor stories of Custer, Wild Bill and Bill Cody and cattle drives through Ellsworth. What better way to explore than on horseback?

Five and a half years and thousands of delighted riders later, Walt is still found riding and “a story tellin’ .” His charismatic charm and eccentric cowboy ways add such unique flair to the riding experience.

“Being a wrangler is more than riding horses,” he explains. “It’s about the life and the love. The hope that they take a piece of that with them when they leave, no matter where they go.”

.My family visiting from the United Kingdom was some of Walt’s many "not from here 'bouts" riders. And, indeed, they returned with the memories of when they were cowboys for a day. For them Kansas was no longer just about the “Wizard of Oz,” it opened their eyes to the more meaningful wild west history.

Walt takes pride in his well-bred quarter horses: a comfortable, safe ride even for the novice rider. My children had their first horseback riding experience at Goverland and returned excited, ready to ride again. For me, the importance was the knowing reassurance that they were in experienced, capable hands. With Walt, I knew that it was always safety first.

Walt remembers once riding through the big Bluestem grasses on the prairie when a guest commented on the falling stock market. Walt smiled to himself, and then heard the rider mutter “Well, I guess that doesn’t matter much out here, does it?”

“Nope” was the obvious response.

Rides include the Indian cave trail and the historical Horse Thief Canyon. Here legend has it that the bodies of Indian horse thieves, captured by lawman Anderson, were buried. Still ahead, The Enchanted Forest, Red Rock Canyon and more remain to be explored.

Open year round, Walt reminds me with his cheeky smirk “Oh, what fun it is to ride in a Winter Wonderland.” He recommends visitors bring cameras and lunch to fully enjoy the scenic wonder he has dubbed “Little Yellowstone”.

The Stage Stop also offers stagecoach services for rodeos, parades and special events such as weddings. Always ready to roll, it is complemented by a fine team of horses with a silver-spotted harness. “Many a groom has met his fate riding off into the sunset.” Walt chuckles. A complete wedding package is available. Facilities, catering and coach. Horseback weddings can also be arranged.

A covered wagon and a chuckwagon are ready for themed party. “The permanent cowboy camp is set up to cater for any group,” Walt explains. “For that special horseback adventure, followed by a campfire supper, it is is only a phone call away. Happy trails to you.” This covered wagon is genuine. Every detail is authentic, down to the cast iron skillets used on an open fire.

This service is also available for birthdays, parades and even funerals. “Hopefully not too many of the latter though.” Walt comments dryly.

For more information Walt can be contacted 785 826 0789. www.goverlandstagestop.com