What’s the best horse for handling rough terrain in RDR2?

When it comes to handling rough terrain in Red Dead Redemption 2, the best horse is the **Missouri Fox Trotter**. This breed excels in both speed and stamina, making it ideal for navigating uneven landscapes like mountains, forests, and rocky areas. The Missouri Fox Trotter is a multi-class horse, meaning it combines the traits of race and work horses, offering a balanced mix of agility, endurance, and calmness in stressful situations. Its high health and stamina stats ensure it can handle long journeys and recover quickly from falls or injuries.\n\nTo acquire the Missouri Fox Trotter, you can purchase it from the **Scarlett Meadows Stable** in Lemoyne during Chapter 4 or later in the game. It costs $950, so make sure to save up enough money. Alternatively, you can find a wild Missouri Fox Trotter in the **Heartlands** or **Big Valley** regions, though this requires patience and skill in taming. To tame a wild horse, approach it slowly while calming it with the ''Calm'' button (L3 on PlayStation, LS on Xbox). Once close enough, mount the horse and soothe it repeatedly until it stops bucking.\n\nOne of the key mechanics to consider when using the Missouri Fox Trotter on rough terrain is its **stamina management**. While this horse has high stamina, it’s important to use the ''Calm'' button while riding to replenish its stamina bar. This is especially useful when climbing steep hills or galloping through dense forests. Additionally, bonding with your horse to level 4 will unlock its full potential, including better handling and increased stamina regeneration.\n\nAnother practical tip is to equip your horse with the **Hooded Stirrups** and a **Trail Saddle**. These items reduce stamina drain and improve overall performance on rough terrain. You can purchase these upgrades from any stable in the game. For example, the **Valentine Stable** in New Hanover offers a wide selection of saddles and stirrups. Equipping these items will make your Missouri Fox Trotter even more reliable in challenging environments.\n\nFor players who prefer a more budget-friendly option, the **Mustang** is another excellent choice for rough terrain. This breed is hardy and can be found in the wild in areas like **Hennigan’s Stead** or **Rio Bravo**. While it lacks the speed of the Missouri Fox Trotter, it compensates with high health and resilience, making it a great alternative for early-game players or those who prefer a more rugged mount.\n\nIn conclusion, the Missouri Fox Trotter is the best horse for handling rough terrain in Red Dead Redemption 2 due to its balanced stats and adaptability. By bonding with your horse, equipping the right gear, and managing stamina effectively, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience even in the most challenging landscapes. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned gamer, these tips will help you make the most of your equine companion.