Adaptive Horseback Riding Lessons at Cheyne Ranch

As part of our mission to share our animals to teach care, connection, and confidence, we offer adaptive horseback riding lessons for students of all ages and abilities.


Horseback Riding Lessons at Cheyne Ranch

Photo credit: Karen Smutz

  • At Cheyne Ranch, we share our animals to teach care, connection, and confidence.

  • We are not a traditional sports barn — we don’t focus on competition or horse shows.

  • We welcome all students and prioritize inclusivity, safety, and accessibility.

  • Looking for a competitive or show-focused program?
    We’re happy to refer you to local barns that specialize in that kind of training.


Lesson Overview

  • 8-week sessions: one 60-minute lesson each week

  • Group size: 2–3 students, grouped by age and skill

  • Saddle time: ~30 minutes (mostly walking; trotting added when balanced and rein-independent)

  • Horse care included: Grooming, tacking, cooldown, and barn responsibilities

  • Rain or shine: There's always something to learn — even with feet on the ground

  • Cost: $400 per session
    Payment plans and scholarships available


Our Approach

  • Horsemanship first – Focus on balance, calm communication, and connection with the horse

  • Progress at your pace – Readiness and safety guide each next step

  • No jumping or show focus – We are a therapy-oriented, connection-driven barn

  • Instructor and horse pairing – Always chosen with student needs and animal wellbeing in mind


A Note About Falling

  • Yes, falling off a horse can happen. It’s part of the learning process, and we take safety seriously.
    🟡 I wrote a blog post: chra.us/fall


Not Focused on Riding?

  • Check out our PALS Program – a great starting point for students who aren’t riding-focused but love animals and want to learn how to care for them.


The Lifelong Journey

Spending time with horses offers a lifelong path of learning and growth.
At its heart, horsemanship is about becoming a calmer, clearer communicator — with horses and with ourselves.
Every lesson deepens confidence, clarity, and connection — skills that carry into every corner of life.
There’s no age limit and no finish line — just one meaningful step at a time.


Ready to Learn More?

🌟 New here? Read our Top 10 Things to Know and schedule a family visit to meet us.

📱 Returning student? If you've already been here, just text Sally and let her know you'd like to be added to the riding lesson schedule.

🗓️ We operate our programs in 8-week blocks

  • Fall 1: Mid-August to mid-October

  • Fall 2: Late-October to mid-December

  • Spring 1: Mid-January to mid-March

  • Spring 2: Late-March to mid-May

  • Summer: All 8 weeks of June and July


Learning Levels Curriculum

  • Introduced summer 2023 (English levels first; Western coming soon).

  • Provides clear, step-by-step goals for safety, horsemanship, and riding skills.

  • We adapt the program to fit our horses, students, and therapy-focused approach.

  • Learn more