Learning to Ride
Our lessons are intended to allow anyone to acquire the knowledge, skills and outlook necessary to enjoy recreation with horses and ponies. We start at any age and any skill level.
Beginners are welcome, and so are people with special needs.
Now is The Right Time to Start
We believe in 'now'. If a child is interested in horses or other animals; or if you'd like to give him/her a chance to develop an interest or just to get in touch with nature, then we can help.
It's Not Just About Riding
Our lessons start with the horse in the field and finish when he gets back there. The student is expected to bring the horse in, prepare him for riding, and to clean him up afterwards. We encourage students to see the horse as a living being with thoughts and feelings.
The task of preparing the horse before riding is an essential part of building a two-way trusting relationship, as well as teaching more about the realities of horsemanship.
Group Lessons
Group lessons are 3-4 riders of similar age and ability.
Our Lessons Start On The Ground
We want to make sure that you are safe and confident and have the horse's attention and respect before you get on board. Included in the beginning of every lesson is grooming, hoof care and tacking up.
When You Are Ready
When the horse and rider are working well together, we will proceed to mount up. Once there, the lesson content depends on the skill level and goals of the rider. Our lesson programs are tailored to meet each person's wants and needs.
After a lesson we go over the correct way of finishing for the day including: cooling your horse down and un-tacking, how to safely release the horse to the pasture, and proper care of the tack and equipment.
A Horse That's Your "Size"
Ponies are less intimidating if you're small. And it helps if you can "reach the top" when you are grooming your horse.
Once The Horse Or Pony Is Ready
Once your horse or pony is tacked up and ready, we do some ground work to help make sure both horse and rider are working on the same page. This work may include some "tests" such as having the horse lead behind the student following his/her every move, yielding the horse's front and back ends, or sending your horse over a tarp or small jump.
Riding Doesn't Have to Be Hours Going Round in Circles
Trail riding is part of your lesson plan. We have over 36 acres of land with miles and miles of trails. Our lands include both woods and open fields; and a variety of natural and artificial obstacles, hills, slopes, and ponds with trails throughout. Trail riding can be a great way to practice riding over different surfaces, develop faster gaits, or just enjoy a change of scenery.