Destry Owen, a younger rider, braved whiteout conditions during the 10-day journey, citing the scariest part as cars driving too close along highways. Owen rode for his family, aiming to break the cycle of addiction and find joy in horseback riding. The sense of community and connection to culture that the ride provides was highlighted by participant Boone.

Riders and community members gathered at a Mankato campground to honor the 38 Dakota men hanged in 1862 after the U.S.-Dakota War. The riders then left the campground with a police escort, riding into downtown where they were met by a crowd of several hundred at the Dakota 38 Memorial. The ceremonies have grown over the years, with the 2022 ride including an apology from Gov. Tim Walz for the treatment of the Dakota people by the United States.