There is a morning sound in the West, one that is familiar and comforting, especially to those in the horse and cattle business. It comes early, before the crispness of dawn. It's a sound made by boots and hooves readying for a day's work. There's a shuffling and stomping of cowboys and horses that is accompanied by the sweet ring of spur rowels or the gentle sway of rein chains as bits are warmed in cowboys' hands before bridles are gently slipped on. There's a certain sound to a foot stepping into a stirrup and a rider settling into a saddle. Sounds broken by quiet voices with only a few words of morning greeting and some brief instructions about the day ahead. Sound gives way to brightness. Riders trot out. Daylight's burning.

This is a rancher's world, and it’s the world in which Tommy Lee Jones feels most comfortable — more at home in the saddle than in the spotlight. And while this blockbuster megastar is loyal to his acting craft, he would still rather be riding. He'll leave here to make a film or do business, but he always circles back. "When I'm here, I spend as much time as I can on horseback," he says. "It’s how I was raised."

Read the complete story about Tommy Lee Jones in the pages of Cowboys & Indians magazine at your local newstand or call (800) 982-5370.