HORSEBACK RIDING
at SYLVAN DALE RANCH
|
 |
There are four types of horseback riding experiences at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch, available to both individuals and groups. You don’t need to stay overnight at the Ranch to enjoy these rides.
Trail Rides
Specialty Rides
Adventure Rider Program (including cattle drives)
Western Horsemanship Classes.
In addition, for people who are guests of a six-night summer vacation package, there is a special horseback riding program for Summer Dude Guests.
Unlike most dude ranches and and trail riding stables, the majority of our horses are born, raised, and trained right here at Sylvan Dale. We have registered horses with the American Quarter Horse Association every year for over 40 years. Every spring we welcome four to eight new foals into the herd.
We believe in gentle training methods and are so fortunate to have the training services of Barry MacAleenan, local trainer and horse professional. He has never met a Sylvan Dale horse he didn't like! As a result, you will find a responsive mount waiting for you at the tie rail.
Each time you mount up, you become a partner with your horse. He is counting on you to communicate to him with signals he understands. He can only respond if you "speak his language". Therefore, we ask every guest, whether you saddle up for a one time ride, or stay with us for the entire week, to learn a little horse psychology. This instruction may only be a brief orientation, or can be more extensive, depending on your length of stay. You can expand your knowledge and riding skills even further by signing up for our Western Horsemanship Classes.
Horses are amazing animals-- beautiful, intelligent and responsive. They can become partners with us as we explore the hills, attempt the challenges of the arena, or move cattle up the draw. How? Through gentle and consistent communications...asking them and rewarding them the same way every time.
We are very proud of our Heart J Herd. You will appreciate their beauty, their dependability, and their responsiveness.
