Pricing Lessons

love2hike · 05-07-2012, 06:50 PM

I've never been horseback riding before, however it's on my bucket list, so I've been pricing lessons. I see a wide range of pricing; how do I know what's a good deal? What's the "going rate" for an hour-long riding lesson?

**CozInCowtown** · 05-07-2012, 07:30 PM

Call and ask!!

Bud Corwin · 05-07-2012, 07:39 PM

Hi Love2hike,
Although I'm not an expert rider, I have been horseback riding several times The last time was with my wife up in South Dakota. That was two years ago. One time before that was in Utah with my wife also. That's been four or five years ago. I used to go pony riding when I was a young boy, around 10 years old. I'm now 73. I've never taken a lesson and doubt that you need to either. If you go to a riding stable, they have outfitters and trail boss that will take you on a half hour clear up to an over night ride. Prices vary greatly and it also depends on how long you wish to stay in the saddle. Hope this helps and happy trails.

ppine · 05-08-2012, 11:21 AM

Love2hike,
Horses (and mules and donkeys) can be one of the best things about being in the outdoors. Taking lessons is a great idea so you can get past kicking to go and pulling to stop. Having soft hands and skill with your legs and seat, makes riding much more rewarding and allows you to ride much better horses.

Partly because of insurance and law suits riding has become expensive. Realize that people get hurt around horses all the time. Rental horses are your best bet. It may cost in the neighborhood of $30-50 per hour.

Start by choosing a discipline or type of riding you are interested in ie trails, cow work, horse packing, English pleasure, dressage, hunter/jumper etc. Then go visit some stables. Ask lots of questions and try some 1 hour rides. When you find someone you like and trust, then you can think about lessons with them. Ask around. Horse people all have reputations that follow them. Some are traders, some are trainers and some just rent horses.

Owning horses is a demanding and expensive business these days. It takes up a lot of time and you have to be home twice a day. Renting other people's horses can be a great alternative. You get to ride in beautiful places when you feel like it. Rental horses have to be broke and can't be buckers. I have had really great experiences on rental string horses and mules on overnight trips. The animals are professionals and they have seen everything. Let us know how it goes and don't be afraid to ask specific questions.