The NSCD offers a variety of equine options to accommodate different needs and abilities. These options range from horsemanship based non-riding lessons to independent trail rides. Our focus is to provide people with a warm, welcoming environment to learn about horses, develop horsemanship skills and become stronger riders. Horses in therapeutic environments have been shown to help riders develop fine and gross motor skills, confidence, social skills, trunk control and overall strength. Participants must be independent and manage self-care or bring a caregiver to provide assistance.

Questions about Therapeutic Horseback Riding? Find answers here!

Military members: First lesson is free, subsequent lessons are 50% off published pricing. This activity is for military members, active or Veteran, of any age who have a disability. Call (303) 515-NSCD (6723) to receive the discount code before booking online.

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Lessons
Unmounted/Ground Therapy
Trail Rides
Rodeo Ready
Therapeutic Horseback Riding Camp

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Lessons

These lessons are great for all riders. In the arena, we can focus on our riding skills and confidence on the horse. Depending on the rider’s ability and comfort, these lessons may require more assistance, such as side walkers, horse leaders, and additional adaptive equipment. If a rider is more independent, the focus may be more on turning, stopping, trotting and cantering. We have a variety of games to keep all riders engaged and help develop riding and coordination skills. There is also the option of adding a short (5-10 minute) trail ride to the end of arena lessons. Our short trails, including our RC sensory trail, are accessible to most riders.

 *Maximum rider weight is 200 lbs.

Unmounted/Ground Therapeutic Horse Lessons

Ground therapy with the NSCD can be a great alternative for riders who exceed our weight limit or are not able to safely ride a horse for other reasons. Some participants find therapeutic benefits in simply walking with the horse and grooming the horse. Others may enjoy more advanced horsemanship-based groundwork skills that take place in our round pen. These activities tend to instill confidence, bonding and leadership skills for participants.

Trail Rides

We have multiple scenic trails that riders enjoy exploring while viewing wildflowers, mountain vistas and occasional wildlife sightings. Trail rides are for our more independent riders. This includes riders who can stay balanced on the horse without side walkers, who can control the horse without a leader and are over the age of 8 years old.

 *Maximum rider weight is 200 lbs.

Rodeo Ready

Rodeo Ready is back this year with several different times and dates to choose from! We’re offering early summer opportunities and fall sessions as well. This program is for experienced riders who are hoping to improve on their horsemanship skills and gain more independence. Once you register, our Program Supervisor will give you a call to ask about the rider’s experience level in order to pair the rider with the perfect horse for all 5 sessions.

*Maximum rider weight is 200 lbs.

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Camp

Love horses? Join us at the NSCD Therapeutic Riding Center for a camp that includes learning to groom, tack and ride a horse. New skills learned in the arena will be enhanced while out on daily trail rides. Participants who are not independent in self-care must supply a personal care provider who is available to them throughout the length of the camp.

Horse camps are popular, register early. These are not overnight camps.

*Maximum rider weight is 200 lbs.

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