Build Your Riding Skills Under Expert Instruction

Horseback riding lessons are a balance of skill, connection and communication between horse and rider. Each lesson begins with the fundamentals of safety, respect and understanding the horse as both a partner and a teacher. Riders learn proper handling, grooming and tacking before moving into the arena, where exercises are tailored to their age, experience and goals.

In the saddle, students practice posture, balance and clear communication through the reins, legs and seat. As lessons progress, riders build confidence and technique, from basic walk–trot skills to more complex movements, jumps or patterns. Instructors guide riders to think not only about their own body but also about how the horse feels and responds, creating a partnership built on trust.

Lessons are designed to be engaging, safe and rewarding. We strive to offer opportunities for growth whether it’s a child on their first pony ride, an adult rediscovering riding, or a dedicated rider working toward competition.

Children

Kids learn best when they’re having fun and feeling safe. We start them with the basics of being around horses – how to approach, how to groom and how to understand what horses are telling them. Once they’re comfortable on the ground, we move to the saddle. Walking first, then trotting when they’re ready. Parents love watching their kids gain confidence week by week and kids learn to be proud of each step of progress they make riding their favorite lesson horse. (Yes, we let them choose).

Teens

Teenagers often come to us wanting more independence and challenge. Some are continuing from childhood, others are just starting. We give them real responsibility – they learn to tack up independently, understand why horses behave certain ways and start making decisions about their riding. For those interested, we introduce jumping and more complex flatwork. Teen riders often form the strongest friendships here, bonding over shared lessons and barn time.

Adults

Adult riders fall into a few camps and we welcome all of them. Some rode as kids and want to experience the freedom and partnership again (plus riding is the best escape from daily stress). Other adults are brand new to riding, trying it out for the first time. Then there are those working toward specific goals like local shows or trail riding confidence. Adults appreciate understanding the mechanics behind what they’re learning. We explain the why, demonstrate the how and give you time to get it right without feeling rushed.

Recreational Riders

You’re here because horses make you happy. You want to ride for the pure joy of it – the connection, the escape from your busy week and the satisfaction of learning something physical and real. We focus on building your confidence steadily so every ride feels good. You’ll learn proper technique because riding correctly is actually more comfortable and fun. But there’s no pressure to compete or advance. Some of our recreational riders have been coming for years, perfectly content to ride around the property on Tuesday evenings.

Returning Riders

You rode as a kid, or maybe took lessons years ago, and now you’re ready to get back in the saddle. We see riders like you all the time – successful adults who miss that barn smell and the clarity that comes from focusing on just you and your horse. We’ll help you rebuild your seat and hands without making you feel like you’re starting from scratch. You’ll appreciate our focus on biomechanics because understanding how horses move and think makes your riding more intuitive.

Aspiring Competitors

We prepare riders for local shows, hunter paces, and schooling events. You’ll start with solid flatwork because that’s the foundation for everything else. When you’re ready, we’ll introduce jumping and cross-country schooling. We teach you to ride a dressage test, navigate a jump course, and handle the nerves that come with competition. But here’s the thing – we keep it fun and pressure-free. Local competitions should be exciting, not terrifying. Our aspiring competitors support each other, share trailers to shows, and celebrate every clear round and improved score.

Expert Coaching

Trina’s years of experience and passion for teaching mean you’ll get personalized guidance that helps you develop your skills. She catches the small things before they become big problems – the collapsed hip that’s throwing off your balance, the slight grip on the reins that’s blocking forward movement. Her corrections are specific and actionable. Students consistently report having “aha” moments in lessons when something they’ve struggled with suddenly makes sense.

A Supportive Community

The atmosphere at Chestnut Hill is welcoming and encouraging. Riders at different levels work alongside each other without judgment or competition for arena space. The culture here values progress over perfection, which means everyone feels comfortable learning at their own pace. Many riders have formed lasting friendships through their shared time at the barn. It’s a place where both introverts and extroverts feel comfortable, whether you want to quietly focus on your riding or connect with fellow equestrians.

Beautiful Facilities

Every detail is designed to make your time here enjoyable and productive. Our 86-acre farm offers everything you need to progress – indoor arena for year-round consistency, outdoor ring for perfect weather days, cross-country course for building confidence, and miles of trails for when you need a break from ring work. But it’s how we maintain them that matters. Arenas are dragged regularly, jumps are set appropriately, and trails are kept clear. Everything works the way it should.

Well-Trained Horses

Our lesson horses are carefully selected and maintained for the teaching program. They’re accustomed to riders of different skill levels and have the temperament needed for instruction. We match horses to riders based on experience level and goals – steadier mounts for beginners building confidence, more forward horses for riders ready to refine their aids. The lesson horses are an essential part of the teaching program, providing consistent, safe experiences that allow riders to focus on developing their skills.