How do you complete the Horseman Challenge 7 without using a horse?

Horseman Challenge 7 in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires you to ride from Van Horn Trading Post to Blackwater in under 17 minutes without touching any water. While the challenge is designed to be completed on horseback, it is possible to complete it without using a horse by leveraging alternative methods. This guide will walk you through the steps to achieve this feat, including game mechanics, strategies, and practical tips.\n\nFirst, it’s important to understand the game mechanics involved. The challenge tracks your progress based on the route you take and the time it takes to travel from Van Horn to Blackwater. The key restriction is avoiding water, as touching any body of water will reset the challenge. This includes rivers, lakes, and even shallow streams. To complete the challenge without a horse, you’ll need to rely on fast travel, trains, or other vehicles like stagecoaches.\n\nStart by traveling to Van Horn Trading Post, located in the northeastern part of the map. From here, you’ll need to plan a route that avoids water entirely. One effective method is to use the train system. Head to the Van Horn train station and wait for a train heading west. Board the train and stay on it until it reaches the station closest to Blackwater. This method ensures you avoid water and saves time, as trains are faster than walking or running.\n\nIf a train is not available, you can use a stagecoach or fast travel. Fast travel requires you to have unlocked the Fast Travel Map at your camp or purchased a train ticket. However, fast travel may not always be reliable for this challenge, as it can sometimes skip checkpoints. Alternatively, you can hijack a stagecoach or wagon and drive it yourself. Be cautious of lawmen and other NPCs, as they may interfere with your progress.\n\nAnother strategy is to use the game’s bounty system to your advantage. If you have a bounty in the area, lawmen will chase you, but this can be used to distract them while you make your way to Blackwater. Use stealth and cover to avoid detection, and stick to dry land at all times. This method requires patience and careful planning but can be effective if executed correctly.\n\nFor players who prefer a more direct approach, running or walking the entire distance is possible but time-consuming. Stick to the main roads and avoid shortcuts that may lead you near water. Use stamina-boosting items like Potent Miracle Tonics to maintain your speed and endurance. This method is not recommended for beginners, as it requires precise timing and route management.\n\nFinally, here are some practical tips to help you succeed. Always save your game before attempting the challenge, as this allows you to retry if you fail. Use the in-game map to plan your route and mark key checkpoints. Avoid areas with high NPC activity, as they can slow you down or cause distractions. If you encounter obstacles like bandits or wildlife, prioritize evasion over confrontation to save time.\n\nIn conclusion, completing Horseman Challenge 7 without a horse is challenging but achievable with the right strategies. Whether you use trains, stagecoaches, or your own two feet, careful planning and execution are key. By understanding the game mechanics and following the steps outlined above, you can successfully complete this challenge and move on to the next one.