noun
point beyond which a horse cannot travel
Historical term for a spot on a mountain pass where the trail becomes too steep or rough for horses, often marking a trailhead or turnaround point. Now mostly encountered in place names or historical descriptions.
昔の街道には、馬返しと呼ばれる場所がいくつもあった。
On old highways, there were many places called 'umagaeshi' where horses could go no further.
この先の馬返しからは徒歩で登るしかない。
From the umagaeshi up ahead, you have no choice but to continue on foot.