Is there any paperwork?

All new students must complete our liability waiver – found here. 

Where should I pull in to the barn?

We are located at 473 Golf Course Rd, Altoona, PA 16601

We have two entrances to the farm, and strongly encourage use of the larger entrance. If you are coming from the direction of the Skelp Mountain / Bellwood exit, it will be the first entrance available, directly after Creekside Produce. There is a wooden privacy fence between their parking lot and our drive to help recognize it. You will take a right and pass two white houses and onto gravel, passing the grey barn on your left. You will be able to see the large green and tan Main Barn as soon as you pass the initial driveway.

The smaller entrance to the farm would be the first entrance you see coming from the direction of Kettle Rd. You would recognize it by a small green barn and direct eyesight to the Main Barn. It is not nearly as maintained and has a blind spot when turning. We ask that you avoid using this lane.

Please maintain speeds respectful to horses, riders, dogs, and farm guests and owners. We ask that you maintain approximately 5 mph when visiting.

What ages can join in riding?

Children as young as 3 can enjoy a few minute pony ride, we begin to offer lessons at 5, and there is no age limit on who can benefit from learning and riding.

What should I wear?

The right attire makes all the difference for comfort and safety. Long pants are a must to provide protection and avoid pinching in the saddle. Riding specific pants (breeches or jeans) are not necessary for casual riding, athletic pants such as leggings or joggers can suffice for the beginning stages.

• Pro tip: If you purchase jeans specifically for riding, buy them 4-6 inches longer than your regular inseam so they don’t ride up when in the saddle. Our favorite local tack shop Silver Stirrup carries Rock’n’Roll Denim, which are a great riding brand and come in many options for length and size.

No open toed shoes around our 1000 lb friends at any time.

Low heeled boots such as cowboy boots, english style boots, or other similar styles of boot with low amounts of tread are necessary. They help prevent riders from getting their foot caught in the stirrup should they fall and are a must for safety. Tennis shoes are not acceptable for this reason. Should a rider forget their boots or haven’t obtained any, we frequently have some to lend and also use bareback pads during lessons as an option.

Shirts should cover midriff and shoulders for safety purposes.

Helmets are always required with the exception of those over 18 who are riding their own horse. We supply a variety of riding helmet sizes to match riders for a safe fit.

When should I arrive for my lesson?

Please arrive promptly for your lesson as lateness impacts the instructor’s schedule for the rest of the day. Lessons are one hour long from the scheduled time. Please arrive ideally about 5 minutes before your lesson is scheduled. If you recognize that you will be late, please message your instructor.

Students who have received prior approval by their instructor may arrive earlier to bring in their horse and tack up.  If you have not yet demonstrated the ability to safely catch, tie, groom, and tack up the instructor will bring in your horse for you when it is time for your lesson.  Speak to your instructor about focusing on becoming more independent in handling skills during lessons to become approved.

Where do I go:

Lessons begin in the aisleway/tack up area of the large barn. If you arrive early and there is a lesson finishing in the indoor arena you are welcome to watch from the front side, the long open side of the arena.