'Equitrekking' explores the world on horseback

The fifth season of the Emmy Award-winning television series "Equitrekking" will make its debut on SC-ETV Dec. 19 at 5:30 p.m., and on SC-ETV on Thursday nights beginning at 7 p.m. on Jan. 1. The show is hosted by South Carolina native Darley Newman and takes viewers to different locales around the globe, some that are only accessible by horseback.

Among the destinations "Equitrekking" will visit this upcoming season include Uruguay; Alberta, Canada; Turkey; Jordan; the Carolinas; Vermont; the Georgia coast; Wyoming; Colorado and Spain.

The series is shot in high definition, is broadcast on Public Broadcasting System affiliates in the United States and can be seen in more than 65 countries. The show provides the viewer the opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and cuisine found at the locales they explore.

"This season of 'Equitrekking' is our most diverse yet," said Newman. "From riding with the Bedouin in the Middle East and the gauchos in Uruguay to visiting pristine parks in the U.S.A., we cover the globe and introduce viewers to the world's most exotic and accessible destinations."

For the past two years, "Equitrekking" has been recognized with a first place award for Best Travel Broadcast in the North American Travel Journalists Awards competition.

"The new season is awesome," said Newman, in a phone interview last Friday afternoon. "The shows are getting more popular. I spoke at Equine Affaire in Massachusetts, and there was a large crowd, and we talked to so many people. There's a cross section of people interested in the show; young girls who ride, families and older people who are retired. It's great because they're always making suggestions."

"Equitrekking" will feature two specials in 2010, with the "Great National Parks" special taking an in-depth look at Bryce Canyon and Capital Reef in Utah; the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina; Canyon de Chelly in Arizona; Kenai Fjords in Alaska; Haleakala National Park on Maui, Hawaii; Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii; Cumberland Island in Georgia and Yellowstone in Wyoming. The other special's focus will be directed toward "Great American Ranches," and the show will explore the history, landscape and culture of ranches in Wyoming; Colorado; Arizona; Alberta, Texas; and Hawaii.

"We have two specials, the 'Great National Parks' and 'Great American Ranches,'" said Newman. "We interviewed a number of people about the history of the dude ranch. We also use black and white photos to help tell the story. It's neat how it all progresses."

People who have been inspired by the show will now have an opportunity to book their own vacation through Equitrekking Travel.

"We're expanding the travel business," said Newman. "One thing plays off of the other. People tell us about the places that they've been."

Contact Ben Baugh at bbaugh@aikenstandard.com.