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Girl Learning to Horesback Ride in Colorado
Lessons for All Levels

Riding Lessons

Saddle up and discover the joy of horseback riding with our expert-led lessons. Designed for riders of all ages and abilities, our programs focus on building confidence, improving technique, and fostering a connection with your horse. Whether you're a beginner looking to master the basics or an experienced rider aiming to refine your skills, our professional instructors provide a safe and supportive environment to help you reach your goals.

Group Riding Lessons Single Private Riding Lessons 4-Pack Private Riding Lessons Single Semi-Private Riding Lesson 4-Pack Semi-Private Riding Lessons Ground Lessons

  • Age: 5+ (private lessons) and 7+ (group lessons)
  • Beginner Riders: All beginners (little to no horse experience) 7 years old and older are required to take Basic Horsemanship prior to riding lessons. All beginners (little to no horse experience) ages 5-6 are required to take a Pony Tails or Little Equestrians class prior to riding lessons.
  • All New Students: All new students must fill out a Horseback Riding Request Form. Once the request form is received, an instructor will reach out to you to schedule your lessons!

All lessons must be used within 90 days from the date of purchase, no exceptions.

Lesson Prices
Lesson Type Member Non-Member
Group Lessons $56 $64
Private Lessons $71 $82
4-Pack Private $270 $313

  • What to Wear: Please wear long pants and closed-toed shoes (preferably boots with a small heel). Dress appropriately for the weather, layers are recommended.
  • Adult Attendance: Children must be accompanied by an adult at riding lessons; one adult may accompany more than one child.
  • Weight Limit: Our horses can accommodate riders up to 235 lbs.
  • Weather Policy: Horse programs run rain, snow, or shine, (with the exception of temperatures under 25 degrees, unsafe arena conditions, excessive rain/snow which would make riding unsafe, or thunderstorms). We reserve the right to cancel lessons due to unsafe conditions.
  • What to Bring: a full reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
  • Location: Backcountry Outdoor Center Horse Corrals; 6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton, CO 80125. Click for map and direction
  • Refund Policy: Refund requests will be honored up to 24 hours prior to the start of your scheduled riding lesson. No refunds are given for 4-packs of riding lessons once the first lesson has been used.

Contact Hailey Setzer at Hailey.Setzer@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7038 or Abby DeGroot at Abigail.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7046.

Need help registering? Contact Member Services at 303-471-7020.

Horse with Saddle on
Join the Herd

Horse Clubs

Ride into the world of horses with our engaging Horse Clubs in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Perfect for young equestrians and horse enthusiasts, these clubs offer hands-on experiences, education, and camaraderie in a supportive setting. Learn about horse care, build riding skills, and connect with others who share your passion. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to deepen your knowledge, our Horse Clubs provide the perfect environment to grow your love for all things equestrian.

View Horse Clubs

  • Ages: 7-14
  • What to Wear: Rider should wear weather appropriate clothing (layers are suggested), close-toed shoes (preferably boots with a small heel), and long pants.
  • What to Bring: lots of water and sunscreen.
  • Location: Backcountry Outdoor Center Horse Corrals; 6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton, CO 80125. Click here for map and directions.
  • Cancellation Policy: Cancellations made more than seven days in advance of the program will be refunded minus a $5 fee. Refunds will not be given for cancellations made fewer than seven days before the program. Partial refunds are not given for missed sessions.

Contact Hailey Setzer at Hailey.Setzer@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7038 or Abby DeGroot at Abigail.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7046.

Need help registering? Contact Member Services at 303-471-7020.

Group of riders inline on an open hillside
A View From the Saddle

Trail Rides

Explore the Backcountry Wilderness Area on horseback! Our one-hour guided trail rides take you through scenic conservation land, offering chances to spot wildlife like elk, deer, bobcats, and eagles. With the stunning Front Range foothills as your backdrop, it’s the perfect local adventure. Trail rides run Memorial Day to Labor Day, with private rides available year-round by request.

Sign Up for Trail Rides

  • Price: HRCA Member $71/Program Guest $82
  • Age: 7+ | Riders must be 7 years of age or older at the time of the ride; no age exceptions. Double riding to accommodate younger riders is not allowed. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult on the ride.
  • Group Limit: 4 guests max.
  • Weight Limit: our horses can accommodate riders up to 215 lbs.
  • What to Wear: long pants and closed-toe shoes, preferably boots with a heel; dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Gratuity: if you enjoy your ride, kiss your horse and tip your guide! Our wranglers work hard for tips and greatly appreciate them. The standard gratuity for trail rides is 15-20%.
  • Arrive Early: arrive 5-10 minutes prior to the start time of your ride to get checked in and have a waiver signed (participants under 18 years old must have their waiver signed by a parent/guardian)
  • Location: Horse Corrals at the Backcountry Outdoor Center; 6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton, CO 80125. Map & Directions
  • Refund Policy: Cancellations/transfer requests made more than seven days in advance of the program will be refunded minus a $5 fee. Refunds will not be given for cancellations made fewer than seven days before the program. No refunds will be given for missed rides due to late arrival.
  • Weather Cancellations: Horse programs run rain, snow, or shine, (with the exception of severe temperatures, unsafe trail conditions, excessive rain/snow which would make riding unsafe, or thunderstorms). We reserve the right to cancel due to unsafe conditions. If the weather is questionable, staff will reach out to you to reschedule. No refunds for weather cancellations after a ride has already started.

Contact Hailey Setzer at Hailey.Setzer@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7038 or Abby DeGroot at Abigail.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7046.

Need help registering? Contact Member Services at 303-471-7020.

Horse led around a paddock by child
Beyond the Hooves

Horse Homeschool Program

This equestrian class—geared toward homeschool students—will introduce all things horses from basics to riding. Students will learn about grooming, tacking, horse safety, and riding. The theme will change with each session, but there will be a horse basics lesson during lunch for new attendees and a review for returners. All attendees need to bring a lunch, water bottle, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. This is a youth-only, drop-off program.

View Sessions

  • Ages: 7-14; If needed, groups may be split up according to age for effective teaching.
  • Ratio: For effective teaching, we keep the group size to a maximum of 8 students and maintain a 1:4 teacher-to-student ratio.
  • What to Wear: Closed-toe shoes are required for all participants. Programs typically run rain, snow, or shine, so check the weather and dress accordingly.
  • What to Bring: A backpack packed with a reusable water bottle, snack, sunscreen, and an extra jacket or raincoat (based on the weather forecast).
  • Location: Backcountry Horse Corrals; 6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton, CO 80125. Maps & Directions
  • Refund Policy: Refund and transfer requests must be made one week prior to the start date of the program. If we have to cancel a program, you will be given a full refund. All refunds are processed with a $5 fee.

Contact Abby DeGroot at abigail.degroot@hrcaonline.org.

Horse calmed by younger rider
Build Confidence and a Love for Horses

Horsemanship Classes

Unleash your inner equestrian with our Horsemanship Classes in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Whether you're new to horses or looking to refine your skills, our expert-led programs cover grooming, tacking, safety, and riding techniques. Perfect for all levels, these hands-on classes blend education and adventure, helping participants forge meaningful connections with these incredible animals.

View Sessions

  • Adult Attendance: All children participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult, who will need to stay on-site for the duration of the program (non-participating adults need not register).
  • What to Wear: Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes which can get a little dirty.
  • Weather Policy: Horse programs run rain, snow, or shine, (with the exception of temperatures under 25 degrees, excessive rain/snow which would make programs unsafe, or thunderstorms). We reserve the right to cancel due to unsafe conditions.
  • Arrive Early: Arrive 5-10 minutes prior to the start time of your program to get checked in and have a waiver signed (participants under 18 years old must have their waiver signed by a parent/guardian)
  • Location: Backcountry Outdoor Center Horse Corrals; 6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton, CO 80125. Maps & Directions
  • Refund Policy: Cancellations/transfer requests made more than seven days in advance of the program will be refunded minus a $5 fee. Refunds will not be given for cancellations made fewer than seven days before the program.

Contact Hailey Setzer at Hailey.Setzer@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7038 or Abby DeGroot at Abigail.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7046.

Need help registering? Contact Member Services at 303-471-7020.

Teenage Horse Trainer with younger students
Equestrian Next Steps

Instructor-in-Training

Advance your horsemanship skills and leadership abilities with our Instructor-in-Training program. Designed for experienced riders, this program combines hands-on teaching experience with deeper equine knowledge, including horse care and safety. Perfect for aspiring instructors, it’s your chance to mentor others while growing your confidence in the saddle and beyond.

Application View Sessions

  • Age: must be ages 14-17 at the time of the program
  • Application: required; see below for more information
  • Orientation: IITs must attend an orientation after being accepted into the program
  • Requirements: IITs must attend at least 1 session per month after orientation - Sessions are 3 hours in length and cost $15 per occurrence; upon signing up for orientation, IITs will pay upfront for 10 sessions
  • Experience: IITs must have prior horse experience, and be comfortable with catching, grooming, and tacking. Riding experience in preferred. 

Contact Hailey Setzer at Hailey.Setzer@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7038 or Abby DeGroot at Abigail.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7046.

Need help registering? Contact Member Services at 303-471-7020.

Child on pony being led around by a young adult
An Intro for Young Riders

Pony Programs

Spark a love for horses in your little ones with our engaging Pony Programs. Tailored for young riders, these hands-on sessions introduce basic horse care, grooming, and riding in a fun, safe environment. Ideal for building confidence and creating lasting memories, our pony programs offer the perfect first step into the equestrian world.

Little Equestrians Cuties at the Corrals Mini Manes Pony Rides Pony Tails

Little Equestrians
Little Equestrians is the perfect bridge from pony programs to horseback riding lessons! This 30-minute, private pony-riding lesson firms up the basics of safe— and fun—riding with more attention to details between the rider, instructor, and the pony. Please note: 125-pound weight limit. Please complete a session of our Mini Manes or Pony Tails course prior to registering for Little Equestrians.

Pony Rides
Hand-led pony rides are available for the young horse enthusiast! Walk along with your child as they enjoy the ride. Please note: 125-pound weight limit.

Cuties at the Corrals
This 30-minute program is designed for kids under the age of 6 to come out to meet and love on our horses in a safe, crowd-free environment. This class is capped at 10 kids plus their adult(s).

Mini Manes
Get your little one comfortable around our equine friends with no pressure to get into the saddle right away. This two-week, half-hour program teaches your tot horse safety and care through hands-on activities. Once they are feeling confident, they’ll have the opportunity to go for a ride. Children must be accompanied by an adult. *Please note that both full-sized horses and ponies may be used for our 3-6-year-old programs.

Pony Rides
Hand-led pony rides are available for the young horse enthusiast! Walk along with your child as they enjoy the ride. Please note: 125-pound weight limit. Each time slot accommodates up to eight kids. Both full sized horses and ponies may be used for our 3-6-year-old programs.

Pony Tails
Help your small horse enthusiast learn about horse behavior and get hands-on experience grooming and saddling during the two-week, hour-long lessons. When they are not learning horse safety, they will get to ride and learn the basics of horseback riding! *Please note that both full-sized horses and ponies may be used for our 3-6-year-old programs.

  • Ages: All riding programs are for ages 3-6 (see specific program for age ranges). Child must be 3 years old by the start date of the program; no exceptions. Our “Cuties at the Corrals” program is for ages 0-6.
  • Adult Attendance: Children must be accompanied by an adult for all pony programs; one adult may accompany more than one child.
  • Class Size: Maximum of six students for Pony Rides, Mini Manes, and Pony Tails. Maximum of eight students for Cuties at the Corrals.
  • What to Wear: Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes which can get a little dirty.
  • Weather Policy: Horse programs run rain, snow, or shine, (with the exception of temperatures under 25 degrees, excessive rain/snow which would make programs unsafe, or thunderstorms). We reserve the right to cancel due to unsafe conditions.
  • Arrive Early: arrive 5-10 minutes prior to the start time of your program to get checked in and have a waiver signed (participants under 18 years old must have their waiver signed by a parent/guardian)
  • Location: Backcountry Outdoor Center Horse Corrals; 6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton, CO 80125. Maps & Directions
  • Refund Policy: Cancellations/transfer requests made more than seven days in advance of the program will be refunded minus a $5 fee. Refunds will not be given for cancellations made fewer than seven days before the program.

Contact Hailey Setzer at Hailey.Setzer@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7038 or Abby DeGroot at Abigail.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org; 303-471-7046.

Need help registering? Contact Member Services at 303-471-7020.

Two young kids on horses
Nature & Horsemanship Meet

Horse Camp

At Camp Backcountry, some of the best new friends have four legs! Kids can kick off their day at the Horse Corrals with programs like Horse-Nature Camp, Half-Day Horse Camp, and School Break Camps. These experiences help them start or deepen their journey with our equine friends by learning essential skills like grooming, horsemanship, riding, and more.

Summer Horse Camps Off-Season Horse Camps
Girls holding hands while learning to ride horses
Build Confidence & Leadership

Scout Horseback Riding Programs

Earn badges and create lasting memories with our Scout Horseback Riding Programs in the Backcountry Wilderness Area. Designed to meet badge requirements while providing hands-on experiences, these programs introduce scouts to horse care, grooming, and riding basics. Scouts will build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills as they connect with these magnificent animals in a beautiful natural setting.

Registration
Girl on a pony at a pony party

Pony Parties

Make your child's birthday truly magical with an unforgettable pony party! The celebration begins with 60 minutes of unlimited pony rides, giving kids plenty of time to enjoy the thrill of riding. In addition to the pony fun, children can try their hand at lassoing, play with stick horses, and test their skills with a game of horseshoes. After an exciting hour with the ponies, the next 60 minutes are yours to enjoy—celebrate with cake, open gifts, or plan additional activities of your choice. Want to add a little extra magic? You can request a “unicorn” for the party by contacting Abby DeGroot at Abby.DeGroot@hrcaonline.org. Please note that both full-sized horses and ponies may be used, and while we do offer unicorns, white ones are not available. Get ready for a birthday adventure filled with fun, laughter, and lasting memories!

Reserve a Pony Party
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