There are now four mountain horse associations - The Rocky Mountain Horse : Kentucky Mountain Saddle Horse : Mountain Pleasure Horse and the Spotted Mountain Horse.
The Mountain Horse originated about 200 years ago in the Appalachians of eastern 
Kentucky. Mountain Horses possess an inborn level of high endurance, are sure-footed on rough ground and can cover a great distance without tiring. The basic characteristics of the breeds are a medium-sized horse of gentle temperament with an easy ambling four-beat gait. They were the family / working horse that could pull a plow or cart, work cattle, be ridden by children to the fishing hole or ridden to town comfortably. The Mountain Horse is a very easy keeper that can tolerate winters with minimum shelter.
Owning one of these horses is like having a friend forever. Their gentle disposition, smooth gait, versatility and people-loving attitude make them appealing to a wide variety of equestrians. The Mountain
Horse has a distinct appearance and a naturally smooth four-beat gait with speeds from 7 to 20 miles per hour. This naturally occurring gait, present from birth, does not require any training aids. When the horse is in gait, four distinct hoof beats of equal rhythm can be counted. Each individual horse has its own speed and natural way of going. Because of this, both horse and rider require minimum effort.
Today, the Mountain Horse is gaining in popularity as the family horse, trail companion and endurance competitor. They are prized for their inborn level of high endurance and their natural, single foot 4-beat gait requires minimal effort by both horse and rider. Rockies are graceful, talented, easy-keepers with a willing and people-loving attitude.