Riding Lessons
Meet Your Instuctor: Ava
Photo taken by Broken Barrier Photography
At Hope Reins, riding lessons are led by our amazing instructor Ava, whose love for horses and teaching shines through in every session. She and her beloved mare, Mystic, travel the country competing in amateur rodeos. Together, they’re chasing their dream of becoming a professional barrel racing team… and are well on their way!
What makes their story so special isn’t just the buckles they’ve won or their ambitious goals—it’s how it all began. Neither Ava nor Mystic came from a background of rodeo fame or fancy barns. They started from scratch, growing together through hard work, determination, and a bond that has overcome all obstacles along the way.
Because Ava knows what it’s like to begin with nothing more than passion and big dreams, she has a natural way of connecting with riders—especially those who are just starting out. Her kind, patient approach, paired with the help of our gentle, well-trained horses, creates a safe environment where riders of all ages can learn and grow.
At Hope Reins, lessons are more than just learning to ride— they’re about building confidence, forming connections, and having a whole lot of fun along the way.
Riding Lessons at Hope Reins
Whether you are brand new to the saddle or looking to sharpen your skills, Hope Reins offers personalized horseback riding lessons for riders of all ages and experience levels.
Beginner Riding Lessons
Our Beginner Lesson Program consists of a minimum of 10 structured lessons, designed to build a strong foundation in horsemanship and riding. The pace may vary depending on each rider’s comfort level, progression, and goals—we believe that slow, steady progress is the safest way to build lasting skills and confidence.
Safety is always our top priority—for both the rider and the horse. Our instructor, Ava, brings a patient and knowledgeable approach to every lesson, ensuring a positive experience for riders of all ages.
Topics Typically Covered in Each of the Ten Lessons
- Introduction to Horses & Stable Safety
- Leading, Tying & Tack Basics
- Mounting, Dismounting & Position Basics (first mounted activity)
- Walking & Steering with Reins
- Transitions & Emergency Stops
- Introduction to the Trot
- Steering at the Trot & Riding Patterns
- Horse Care After Riding
- Introducing the Lope/Canter
- Skill Review & Fun Course
Advanced Lessons
For riders with moderate experience, we offer advanced lessons customized to your discipline of choice—whether it’s barrel racing, trail riding, pattern work, or refining your technique. These lessons are fully tailored to your goals, and content will be developed in advance between you and your instructor, Ava.
What to Know Before You Come
- All participants and/or parents of those under 18 years old must have a current, signed Hope Reins Release of Liability Waiver on file before starting the first lesson. The Release of Liability and Consent Form can be found here. It can be printed and brought to your first lesson completed or can be completed on site upon arrival for your initial riding lesson.
- Helmets and close-toed shoes are required whenever interacting with the horses. Boots with a heel are highly recommended. Hope Reins will provide riding helmets for students who do not have their own. Scheduled lessons will not take place if an individual arrives without close-toed shoes, and a $20 late cancellation fee will be charged.
- Ages 4 and up are welcome!
- A valid credit card must be kept on file for all riding students. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson will incur a non-refundable $20 cancellation fee.
- Payment is due upon arrival for your riding lesson and is accepted in the form of cash, card, or Venmo.
Lesson Options & Pricing
Individual Lesson (1 Hour): $60
One-on-one instruction tailored to your skill level and goals
Group Lesson (1 Hour, 2-4 Riders): $50 per rider
A fun and interactive group setting, perfect for friends or families
Lesson Packages:
5 Individual Lessons: $250
A great way to get started and save on single sessions
10 Individual Lessons (Beginner Program): $500
Our full beginner program, designed to build a strong foundation in horsemanship and riding