What are the best strategies for completing the Horseman Challenge 5?

Horseman Challenge 5 in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires you to ride from Van Horn Trading Post to Blackwater in under 17 minutes without touching any water. This challenge is one of the more difficult tasks in the game due to the distance and the strict no-water rule. To complete it successfully, you need a fast horse, a clear route, and careful planning to avoid rivers, lakes, and other water hazards.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a horse with high stamina and speed. The Arabian, Missouri Fox Trotter, or Turkoman breeds are excellent choices. Equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups to maximize stamina regeneration and speed. Additionally, stock up on Horse Stimulants or other stamina-replenishing items to keep your horse running at full speed throughout the journey.\n\nStart the challenge at Van Horn Trading Post, located in the northeast part of the map. Before you begin, save your game. This allows you to reload if you accidentally touch water or fail the challenge. Once ready, mount your horse and head southwest toward Blackwater. The key is to avoid water entirely, so plan your route carefully. Stick to roads and trails, and avoid shortcuts that might lead you near rivers or lakes.\n\nOne of the most critical sections of the route is crossing the Dakota River. Instead of following the main road, which leads to a bridge near Bard’s Crossing, take a detour through the Heartlands. Head south from Van Horn, passing through Emerald Ranch and Valentine. From there, continue southwest toward Flatneck Station. This route avoids the Dakota River entirely and keeps you on dry land.\n\nAs you approach Blackwater, be cautious of the Upper Montana River. Stay on the main road and cross the bridge near Blackwater to avoid touching water. If you’re playing as Arthur Morgan before the epilogue, be aware that Blackwater is a high-danger zone. Lawmen and bounty hunters will attack on sight, so ride quickly and avoid stopping. If you’re playing as John Marston in the epilogue, this area is safe to traverse.\n\nCommon challenges include accidentally touching water or running out of stamina. To avoid water, always stay on marked roads and avoid shortcuts. If your horse’s stamina is low, use Horse Stimulants or pat your horse while riding to restore stamina. Additionally, avoid collisions with other riders or obstacles, as these can slow you down or cause your horse to veer off course.\n\nFinally, practice the route before attempting the challenge. Familiarize yourself with the terrain and potential hazards. If you fail, reload your save and try again. With the right preparation and a fast horse, you can complete Horseman Challenge 5 within the time limit and without touching water.\n\nPractical tips: Use the cinematic camera mode to focus on the route while your horse runs automatically. This reduces the risk of steering errors. Also, avoid using the map too often, as it can distract you from the road. Stay calm and focused, and you’ll reach Blackwater in no time.