RE: Need a Horse !
Sombrero Ranch - 303-442-0258 or 970-586-4577 --- They are all over up there!
$300 deposit (per 1 to 3 head), $325 each for the season, $1100 if the horse dies for any reason. Horse, saddle, blankets, bridle, halter are provided - you are responsible for the feed. They do NOT provide panniers, lashing ropes, scales, or mannies. They will deliver to the trailhead and pick up, rapid response to changes of plan via cell phone.
I take you at your word that your friend is up to wrangling his own string and all that goes with it -- toughness alone won' t do it. There is a big difference between going along and seeing it done versus doing it ALL yourself and making each little decision along the way -- ESPECIALLY with strange stock! BE FOREWARNED!
Never Go Undergunned,
EKM