deerpath stable

1. What if I've never ridden a horse before?
2. Can the horse sense if I'm nervous?
3. What if I'm not a beginner rider?
4. How do I make arrangements to ride?
5. Are there any restrictions who can ride a horse?
6. What should I wear?

1. What if I've never ridden a horse before?

No Problem! Teaching first-timers and beginners is our specialty. We'll instruct you on the basics of horseback riding. Our staff is friendly, patient, and very experienced in working with people who are a little tense when it comes to riding horses.It's normal to be hesitant when trying something new. However, keep in mind that riding is a sport, not an amusement ride. It requires your active participation. You should be fit and meet our weight limits. Most of our rides do a little jog/trot pace. (Never canter or gallop.)

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2. Can the horse sense if I'm nervous?

We literally take thousands of first-time riders every year and the majority of the others only ride occasionally. So, for our horses, a nervous rider is, well....just another rider. Horses have no mystical ability to sense fear. Give them the simple signals that we teach you and they will respond, whether you are a little tense or not.

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3.What if I'm not a beginner rider?

Many experienced riders do find our ride an enjoyable way to spend time on a horse and see some beautiful Pocono scenery and wildlife. However our trail ride is never more than an easy walk or jog pace.

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4.How do I make arrangements to ride?

Reservations are always strongly recommended. We are open to accept reservations anytime after 9:00 a.m., The first check-in at 10:00 (Summers) or 10:30 A.M. (off-season) Rides go every hour through 4:00 P.M. Groups of 6 or more must check in 15 minutes earlier. (Ride times can sometimes be arranged for earlier or later in the day.) The schedule is subject to change- so be sure to call.

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Yes.

  • No children younger than 9 years of age (this is strictly enforced) No riding double. We do have little pony rides for younger kids.
  • We're serious about our weight restrictions below- we may ask you to step on a scale
  • 5'10' and taller Max 240 Lbs
  • 5'6' to 5'9" Max 220 Lbs
  • 5'5" and under Max 200Lbs
  • No pregnant women
  • No people consuming alcohol

Other than these restrictions, most anyone who is athletic and has a little sense of adventure can ride a horse.

Please if you have someone with special needs consult with us in advance. We do our best to accommodate you, but some situations need a special therapeutic riding program which we cannot provide.

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6.What should I wear?The following are suggestions for your comfort and safety:
  • *Dress for the weather. We recommend long pants even in summer. In the winter be sure to dress in a suitable winter coat and definitely and hat and gloves. It can get cold out there!
  • *We consider safe footwear very important. The point of a riding boot or shoe is to avoid ever getting caught in the strirrup.
    You need a securely fastened shoe or boot with a smooth sole and a prominent heel. Obviously a cowboy boot or something similar is best. Even a man's dress shoe is OK. Sneakers are not acceptable. Hiking or work boots with a course tread are the worst. It's OK if you don't have something suitable, we provide free use of our boots and footwear.
  • We provide safety helmets for all riders. We require them for children, recommend them for adults.
  • WHAT NOT TO BRING- Horseback riding is a sport that requires that you be unrestricted by extra weight or bulky items. Please, no water bottles, video cameras, backpacks or large purses ( a tiny shoulder bag is acceptable.)   


Note: The use of safety equipment may be required.

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