What’s the easiest way to complete the Horseman 6 challenge?

The Horseman 6 challenge 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 can seem daunting, but with the right preparation and strategy, it becomes manageable. The key is to plan your route carefully, use a fast horse, and avoid obstacles that could slow you down or force you into water.\n\nFirst, ensure you have a fast and reliable horse. The Arabian, Missouri Fox Trotter, or Turkoman are excellent choices due to their speed and stamina. Make sure your horse is fully bonded (level 4) to maximize its stamina and health. Equip your horse with the best saddle and stirrups available, such as the Panther Trail Saddle or the Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle, to boost its speed and stamina regeneration.\n\nStart the challenge at Van Horn Trading Post, located in the northeast corner of the map. Before beginning, stock up on Horse Stimulants or Potent Horse Stimulants to replenish your horse’s stamina during the ride. These can be purchased from general stores or crafted using herbs like Wild Carrot and Ginseng. Additionally, consume a Potent Health Cure or similar item to ensure Arthur’s health is at its peak.\n\nYour route should avoid water at all costs. Head southwest from Van Horn, following the roads through the Heartlands. Stick to the main paths and avoid shortcuts that might lead you into rivers or lakes. As you approach the Dakota River, cross it using the Bard’s Crossing railroad bridge near Flatneck Station. This is the safest and fastest way to avoid water.\n\nOnce you cross the bridge, continue southwest through the Great Plains. Be cautious of enemies in this area, as lawmen and hostile NPCs can slow you down. If you’re playing as Arthur before the epilogue, you’ll also need to avoid Pinkerton agents in Blackwater. Stay on the roads and use Dead Eye to quickly dispatch any threats.\n\nA common mistake is taking unnecessary risks, such as jumping fences or cutting through dense forests. These actions can cause your horse to stumble or crash, wasting valuable time. Stick to open terrain and well-maintained roads to maintain a steady pace. If your horse’s stamina is running low, use a Horse Stimulant to keep it going.\n\nFinally, as you approach Blackwater, stay focused and avoid distractions. The timer stops as soon as you enter the town’s boundaries, so don’t worry about reaching a specific location within Blackwater. Simply ride into the town to complete the challenge.\n\nFor players struggling with this challenge, consider practicing the route beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the terrain and potential obstacles to minimize mistakes during the actual attempt. Additionally, save your game before starting the challenge so you can reload if something goes wrong.\n\nIn summary, completing Horseman 6 requires a fast horse, a well-planned route, and careful navigation. Avoid water, use Horse Stimulants, and stay on the roads to ensure success. With practice and preparation, this challenge can be completed efficiently and without frustration.