The Pahrump Equestrian Trail Ride Association is planning something different for Sept. 5.

Normally, the guided trail rides sponsored by the association have a fee and proceeds are donated to a charity.

This time there will be no charge and the ride is specifically engineered to be a conditioning ride for those wanting to participate in this year's Pony Express trail ride scheduled for Sept. 19.

Riders will take their horses through the dunes located at the east end of Bond Street off of Homestead Road. The exercise will work the horse and rider in anticipation of the endurance required for the Pony Express.

It will be a night ride, beginning at 7 p.m., so it should be cool -- cooler than in town. Be sure to take water and a light jacket.

Sept. 4 is the full moon and assuming the skies won't be cloudy, being able to see shouldn't be a problem in the desert.

The ride is expected to last two to three hours.

Call 764-8004 for more information.