It began as a quiet dream—a deep love for America’s wild horses and a passion for the rugged backcountry. But in 2024, that dream became a 6,000-mile journey across 25 states, shining a powerful spotlight on the fate of these majestic mustangs. Utah native Jake Harvath embarked on this odyssey not for fame or money, but to encourage the world to take a closer look at the nation’s wild horse adoption program.
Harvath’s adventure kicked off in September 2023, when he packed his saddle and mounted Bella, one of three mustangs that would serve as his trusty companions. Over the ensuing months, he and his equine partners—Denver, Eddy, and Bella—faced the unpredictable terrain of America’s varied landscapes, each hoofbeat carrying them closer to a grand mission: to safeguard the future of wild mustangs.
The Journey in Numbers
- 25 states traveled.
- 6,000 miles covered.
- $38,000+ raised on GoFundMe.
- Potential record for longest continuous horse pack ride within a single year.
He concluded his epic trek just before New Year’s, returning to Heber City, Utah, to a hero’s welcome. A police escort led him to a cheering hometown crowd. For Harvath, it was the culmination of a life-changing experience.
“The goal is to bring attention to the plight of the American mustang,” Harvath wrote on his GoFundMe page. “These incredible animals will serve as ambassadors, helping spread awareness about the BLM’s wild horse adoption program.”
America’s Wild Horses: A Symbol in Crisis
Wild horses roam public lands across the Western United States, managed under the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These “iconic symbols of a once-wild America” now face shrinking habitats and limited grazing opportunities. Human development, including fences, roads, and resource extraction, continues to fragment their range.
Due to a lack of natural predators, mustang populations can grow faster than rangelands can support—leading to potential overgrazing and conflict with ranchers and other land users. At the start of 2024, more than 73,000 wild horses and burros roamed public lands—far exceeding sustainable levels, according to the BLM.
“While it would be amazing for them to live completely wild, our modern society simply doesn’t make that possible,” Harvath explained in an interview with Deseret News.
To mitigate overpopulation, the BLM employs strategies like fertility control and manages adoption programs for mustangs and burros. It’s a substantial operation, with nearly $159 million allocated in 2023 for wild horse and burro management. Yet adoption rates have slipped in recent years, and critics argue that mustangs sometimes languish in holding facilities. This is where Harvath saw his chance to help.
The Bond With His Mustangs
All three of Harvath’s horses—Bella, Denver, and Eddy—are BLM adoptees. They’re tangible proof that wild horses can be successfully gentled, trained, and cared for by dedicated individuals. Harvath kept his gear light; he carried minimal supplies, entrusting two mustangs to pack the essentials while he rode Bella.
Occasionally, Bella had to take a break to prioritize her health. Harvath never pushed his animals beyond their limits, emphasizing that respecting their well-being was central to the mission. “They’ve shown their worth time and again,” he shared on social media. “I owe them everything.”
Inspiring Others to Adopt
While crossing the nation, Harvath documented his travels via YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. His posts captured breathtaking vistas, memorable wildlife encounters, and, most importantly, the adaptability of mustangs. On several occasions, curious onlookers expressed interest in adoption.
“These animals are worth it,” he said in a YouTube video. “They’re trainable, loyal, and exceptional partners.”
The ripple effect didn’t stop there: Harvath reported that he helped multiple families start the paperwork to adopt their first wild horses. Others who had never even ridden horses before began to see the mustang’s potential as a companion. And for those who might have harbored skepticism about adopting a “wild” animal, Harvath’s calm, consistent approach showed how mustangs can thrive with proper care and training.
Challenges on the Trail
A 6,000-mile ride is no small feat. Through winter weather, scorching summer temperatures, and everything in between, Harvath and his mustangs faced myriad hurdles:
- Terrain: From desert plains to mountainous passes, finding safe routes took planning and adaptability.
- Weather Extremes: Lightning storms, flash floods, and sweltering humidity demanded quick thinking and resilience.
- Logistics: Securing fresh water and forage for the horses was a never-ending task.
- Finance: While his GoFundMe raised over $38,000, costs like farrier bills, veterinary checks, and travel necessities added up quickly.
Yet the greatest challenge might have been public perception—convincing communities that mustangs aren’t second-rate horses but can rival any domestic breed in capability and spirit. Many supporters pitched in, offering overnight pastures, warm meals, and donations.
Holding and Aftercare Issues
Harvath was quick to underscore why adoption is a critical part of the solution. Horses removed from the wild often end up in BLM holding facilities, where they receive food and medical attention. Critics say these facilities can become overcrowded, costing taxpayers and causing stress for the animals.
“Some horses are starving in the wild,” Harvath noted. “At least in BLM holding, they get consistent access to food and water.”
But for many advocates, the key is connecting more potential owners with these horses, reducing the financial strain on the BLM while ensuring mustangs find permanent, caring homes.
A Record-Breaking Year?
By the end of his journey, Harvath had covered 4,570 miles between September 2023 and 2024—possibly setting a new record for the longest continuous horse pack ride within a single year. The previous record stood at 3,000 miles in 1989, according to The Long Riders Guild. Harvath plans to submit his story for official recognition, though he insists personal achievement isn’t his priority.
Instead, he wants the record to amplify the conversation around mustang adoption. For Harvath, every mustang successfully placed in a loving home is a bigger trophy than any world record could be.
How You Can Get Involved
- Learn About Adoption: Visit the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program for information on how to adopt.
- Donate or Volunteer: Support organizations that train mustangs and prepare them for adoption. Consider donating to reputable wild horse sanctuaries or volunteer for a local event.
- Follow Harvath’s Example: Harvath kept his fans updated on social media. Share his story, post about mustang adoptions, and help spread the word.
- Advocate: Contact your local representatives to discuss the importance of funding for fertility control measures and responsible land management, ensuring healthier wild horse populations.
A Community of Mustangs & Humans
Throughout his trek, Harvath built an informal network—ranchers, equestrians, nature lovers, and curious spectators—all united by a newfound admiration for mustangs. He closed many of his videos with a similar message: “These horses embody freedom, resilience, and the pioneering spirit of America. We owe it to them to find a sustainable path forward.”
At the core of Harvath’s story is a reminder that solutions to ecological challenges can emerge from personal passion. He saw a gap—public misunderstanding of wild mustangs—and filled it through education, advocacy, and a hefty dose of adventure.
Looking Ahead
As the BLM continues to grapple with managing large herds, Harvath’s journey highlights a positive, participatory solution: adoption. The year 2024 may well go down in history as the “Year of the Mustang,” thanks to one man’s unwavering commitment.
In a article exploring how communities come together to protect local wildlife, we’ve seen that true conservation often relies on grassroots efforts. Harvath’s ride is no exception—demonstrating that anyone with passion, resourcefulness, and a pair (or three) of sturdy hooves can drive real change.
Standing before friends and family upon his return, Harvath said, “They’ve shown their worth time and again. I owe them everything.” His words resonate with mustang advocates nationwide. Maybe, just maybe, more families will open their hearts to these spirited horses—giving them a new lease on life, while preserving a piece of the American West for generations to come.