Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit RockMeadow?

Yes, you are welcome to visit our farm! We do ask that when you walk through the property that you do not enter the stables for safety reasons. Also, please keep in mind that horses can sometimes spook easily so please, no running or yelling while walking through.

What kind of riding do you teach?

We teach English style riding and specialize in Hunter/Jumper/Equitation and overall horsemanship.

What is the cost of your lessons? How long are they?

Lesson price ranges from $95-115 per lesson depending on the type of lesson. Beginner lessons are 1 hour which includes 30 minutes that concentrates on teaching the rider how to groom, tack up and properly care for the horse and a 30 minute riding lesson. Intermediate lesson riders are expected to arrive 30 minutes before their lesson to tack up the horse on their own and be ready for their 30 minute riding lesson. Group lesson riders are also expected to arrive 30 minutes early to tack up followed by a 45 minute riding lesson.

Do you have trail rides or birthday parties at RockMeadow?

We do not currently have trail rides or birthday parties at our farm as we concentrate on weekly lessons for clients who want to learn to ride.

Who can take riding lessons at your school?

We welcome any beginner or intermediate riders with just a few exceptions. We have a weight limit of 180 lbs. for any riders as we do not currently have a school horse that can accommodate more than that. We also do not schedule weekly lessons for kids under the age of 7 years old. We do offer one time pony classes for 4-6 year olds. Check out info here.

Can I come for just one ride?

We are happy to schedule an orientation lesson for anyone who is interested in weekly riding lessons and would like to see if our riding school will be a good fit for them.

Can I schedule a group lesson with someone I know?

The first step would be to schedule an orientation lesson for each of you with one of our instructors. The instructor will be able to tell you if you are ready for a group lesson. Please note that beginners will not be ready for a group lesson right away and will need to start with private lessons first. Instructors need to be sure that each group rider is able to control their own horse safely since they will not be able to keep an eye on both riders at all times.

Can I choose which horse I get to ride?

Horses are chosen by our instructors based on the experience, height and weight of the rider and also horse temperament and availability. You are welcome to chat with your instructor about which horses you’d like to ride but ultimately, the decision is up to them.

Can I ride the same horse every lesson?

No, again, our instructors will choose which horse you will ride. We care about your education as a rider and learning how to ride on different horses is very important!

What kind of supplies are needed for lessons?

Riders are required to come to their lessons with a riding helmet and boots with a heel (paddock boots or tall boots are recommended). Though we do have some helmets at the stable available to borrow, we ask that you purchase your own if you are planning to continue riding regularly. We cannot guarantee the safety and fit of the helmets we have. Bike and ski helmets are not allowed. Any pants (no shorts!) are required for your first lesson but after that we recommend getting a pair of riding breeches.

Do I have to groom and tack up the horse before my lesson?

Yes! Here at RockMeadow we think it is just as important to learn how to care for these great animals as it is to learn how to ride them. Horse care is a very important part of learning to become a good rider.

What are your late/cancellation policies for lessons?

If you are 15 minutes late or more then you will automatically forfeit your lesson time without a refund. For cancellations we ask that you let us know the month before if you have travel planned. For any sickness or later cancellations we ask for 48 hours notice so we can try to fill your lesson spot.

How long will it take to get a lesson spot?

It depends! We currently have a waitlist of over 200 people but we are doing our best to fit in as many lessons as possible. We are hoping to grow our riding school program by adding lesson spaces, horses and instructors to help accommodate all the eager riders! It really depends a lot on the availability of the rider and if a horse that will be suitable for that particular rider is available.

Can you lease a horse at RockMeadow?

We do not lease out our school horses at this time but we have 3 on-site independently operated owning and leasing programs. Check out their info here.