What is the best horse for handling in rough terrain?

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 or challenging landscapes like mountains, forests, and rocky areas. Its calm temperament also ensures it won’t spook easily, which is crucial when traversing dangerous environments or encountering predators.\n\nTo acquire the Missouri Fox Trotter, you can purchase it from the **Scarlett Meadows Stable** in Lemoyne or the **Blackwater Stable** in the epilogue. The horse costs around $950, so ensure you have enough money saved up. Alternatively, you can find a wild Missouri Fox Trotter in the **Heartlands** or **Big Valley** regions, though this requires patience and a high-level bonding process.\n\nHandling rough terrain requires a horse with high stamina and health stats. The Missouri Fox Trotter boasts a strong health pool and excellent stamina regeneration, allowing it to endure long rides without frequent stops. To maximize its performance, feed it **Hay** or **Wild Carrots** to maintain its stamina core. Additionally, use **Horse Stimulant** or **Potent Horse Stimulant** during intense rides to prevent exhaustion.\n\nOne common challenge players face is navigating steep or slippery slopes. The Missouri Fox Trotter’s surefootedness makes it less likely to stumble or lose footing, even on treacherous paths. For example, when climbing the **Grizzlies East** or descending into **Roanoke Valley**, this horse maintains stability better than most breeds. If you encounter a particularly steep slope, dismount and lead your horse manually to avoid accidents.\n\nAnother advantage of the Missouri Fox Trotter is its speed. In rough terrain, quick movement can be the difference between escaping danger or getting caught. For instance, if you’re being chased by wolves or cougars in **Tall Trees**, the horse’s speed allows you to outrun them. Pair this with the **Panther Trail Saddle** or **Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle** to further boost stamina and speed.\n\nTo bond with your Missouri Fox Trotter, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting it. Bonding increases its trust in you, which is essential for maintaining control in high-stress situations. For example, if you’re ambushed by O’Driscolls in **Big Valley**, a high bond level ensures your horse won’t bolt, allowing you to focus on the fight.\n\nFinally, always carry **Horse Reviver** and **Horse Medicine** when exploring rough terrain. Accidents can happen, and these items ensure your horse recovers quickly. For example, if your horse trips over a rock in **Ambarino**, Horse Reviver can save it from death. By following these tips and investing in a Missouri Fox Trotter, you’ll have a reliable companion for any terrain in Red Dead Redemption 2.