Riding Lessons
Meet Your Instuctor
Angela is one of two riding instructors at Hope Reins. She brings over 10 years of hands-on horse experience and a genuine passion for helping others grow in their horsemanship journey. Her love for horses and natural ability to connect with others complement a teaching style built on practical knowledge, encouragement, and patience that helps riders build confidence both in and out of the saddle.
Angela holds a degree in equine massage, reflecting her commitment to horse health and wellness. Even as a teacher, Angela considers herself a life-long learner, and looks forward to learning more about cattle and roping with her 3 horses, in addition to their love for trail riding and running barrels.
Angela enjoys working with riders of all ages and abilities, and is excited to be in a position where she can help both riders and horses reach their full potential.
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 will also be emailed to you after you book your first lesson. The completed forms can be emailed to office@hopereinschristiancounseling.com or be brought with you to your first lesson.
- We recommend dressing in layers and wearing clothing that can get dirty. Long pants, boots with a heel (cowboy boots, mud boots, etc), and helmets are required. Helmets are available to borrow on site. Scheduled lessons will not take place if an individual arrives without closed-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: $500
Our full beginner program, designed to build a strong foundation in horsemanship and riding
How to Book a Riding Lesson
The easiest way to view our current availability and book a riding lesson is through our online booking page, found here or by clicking any of the Book a Riding Lesson Online Now buttons found on our website. Once on our online booking page, you have the option to book either an individual lesson or a group lesson. You are also welcome to call 651-217-8510 for assistance with booking.
To book a Group Riding Lesson (2-4 riders), please have one person book the lesson on behalf of the group. Only one booking is needed per group.
When booking, please be prepared to provide the following information:
- The primary contact’s name, phone number and mailing address
- The full name of each rider
- An email address for each rider
- The age of each rider
Providing this information when booking helps us prepare for your lesson and ensures we have the necessary contact information for everyone in your group.
After booking your first riding lesson, you will receive a welcome email within a couple days with additional information.