Our county has a rich equestrian culture and history, boasting numerous riding academies, boarding stables, and miles of beautiful trails that provide opportunities for riders of all experience levels. Want to try horseback riding but don’t know where to begin? Local equestrian centers offer lessons, camps, and therapeutic programs for riders of all ages. If you think you’re too old to saddle up for the first time, think again. “I would say it’s never too late to start horseback riding,” says Stephanie King, owner of Blue Sky Equestrian Center in Cortlandt Manor.
Riding is not only fun, but it offers physical and mental rewards as well. “It’s my daily therapy,” says King, who says that horseback riding strengthens muscles underutilized in daily life. It can improve core strength, balance, flexibility, and more. There are also profound psychological benefits: “Animals can feel our vibes and our heartbeats. Connecting to them on the ground or while riding…they can regulate our emotions.”
Ready to get started? Herer are eight great options.
Fox Hill Farms
204 Old Sleepy Hollow Road, Pleasantville; 914.769.9813
This state-of-the-art facility in Pleasantville offers lessons for children (ages four and up) and for adults who wish to lease or buy a horse. Summer camp includes riding, grooming, and horse care. Twelve sessions from $1,200, group lessons available; summer camp $850 per week (two-week minimum).
Twin Lakes Farm
960 California Road, Eastchester; 914.961.2192
This respected Eastchester institution, with 150 acres of farmland and extensive trails, offers lessons for all levels, including evening adult-only classes. Kids at summer camp enjoy riding, horsemanship, and fun activities like horse weddings, where two horses are “married” in a ceremony. $70–$120 per session, group lessons available; Intro to Riding Package $190 (three lessons); summer camp $825 per week or $175 per day.
Kentucky Riding Stables
325 Union Avenue, Harrison; 914.381.2825
A 2022 Best of Westchester winner specializing in hunters, jumpers, and horsemanship. Private and semi-private lessons are available, plus mini camps on Saturdays and summer camp from July to August. Lessons are $65–$70 per session. mini-camp $150 per day; summer camp $575 per week.
Sky Blue Equestrian Center
52 Montrose Station Road, Cortlandt Manor; 914.879.5841
This family-friendly center offers lessons, summer camps, and therapeutic riding programs for special-needs participants. Trail riding lessons are also available. Lessons are $65–$95 per session; summer camp $600 per week; trail rides $100.
Echo Farm
91 Spring Street, South Salem; 914.438.3523
Established in 1826, Echo Farm provides lessons for all ages and skill levels. Summer camp groups kids by age and ability, and advanced sessions are available for more experienced riders. Lessons starting $85–$125 per session, group lessons available; summer camp $575 per week.
Access Equestrian
1 Succabone Road, Mount Kisco; 914.234.9000
Access Equestrian is a nonprofit offering adaptive riding programs for those with disabilities, including children, teens, and adults. The Summer Enrichment Program features horse riding, farm animal care, mindfulness, and more. Lessons $75–$95 per session, semi-private and group lessons available; summer mini-sessions $425; full-week program $725.
Endeavor Therapeutic Horsemanship
556 Croton Lake Road, Mount Kisco; 914.241.0211
Founded in 2014, Endeavor provides equine-assisted services for individuals with diverse needs, including veterans, at-risk youth, and disabled individuals. Programs include therapeutic horsemanship, equine-assisted learning, therapy, and more. Scholarships are available. Horsemanship lessons starting at $90 per session; evaluation required for enrollment.
Westchester Trail Rides
Croton-on-Hudson; 914.806.1292
Interested in just a trail ride instead of an equestrian center? Look no further. Westchester Trail Rides is a service that offers guided rides on acres and acres of “beautiful, untouched land.” To make a reservation, contact “Cowboy Bob” at 914-806-1292 with your preferred date and time. $95/per hour, $85 for children, cash only.
Beginner Rider FAQs
When can my child start horseback riding?
Centers typically limit beginner lessons to ages four and up. “Generally, I feel like five or six is a really good age to start,” says Blue Sky Equestrian Center’s Stephanie King.
How much will it cost?
Instructional fees typically range from $70-$120 per lesson depending on the center, the length of the lesson, and whether it’s for an individual or group. Lessons can often be purchased in packages. Youth day camp tuition typically costs anywhere from $575 to $850 per week.
What do I need for my first lesson?
It’s a good idea to contact your riding school or instructor before your first lesson to ask what equipment you need to bring and what you can borrow. Some centers and youth camps may require students to arrive with basic equipment such as a riding helmet, gloves, and low-heeled boots.
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