To successfully travel by horse, a rider must have good balance, a strong grip on the reins, and long legs to reach the clutch. Grind into a gallop with today's Groupon: for $10, you get a horseback trail ride (a $30 value) at Gaston Farm Road Equestrian Center, a family-oriented establishment spanning 50 scenic acres of pasture and wooded trails in Chester (about a one-hour drive from Columbia). Guided trail rides at Gaston last one or two hours and can be scheduled any day Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They begin with a pre-outing orientation and training session, during which riders and their steeds have a chance to break the ice, ensuring that serene moments of quiet never morph into awkward silences during the tour. Once you feel comfy with your four-hoofed chariot, saddle up your most adventurous spirit for a woods-blazing excursion that'll make you feel like the Lone Ranger, except without so much loneness. Horseback tours are limited to six riders to guarantee individualized attention and instruction.