Chadds Ford & Ridley Creek State Park, PennsylvaniaRequest program information

Riding lessons

From first rides to the show ring.

From a rider’s first lesson to a first horse show—and through seasoned competition—we support a wide range of aspirations. Instruction emphasizes equitation, correct riding fundamentals, thoughtful horsemanship, and steady progress in a positive, encouraging environment.

$75Private · twice weekly
$90Private · once weekly
$65Group · twice weekly
$85Group · once weekly
$80Performance private
$55Supplemental · 30 minutes

Lesson formats

Lesson rates.

Rates are per rider and per lesson. Once- and twice-weekly options are listed separately. Private lesson openings are very limited. Placement is determined by the instructor, available horse, schedule, and the rider’s current ability.

Private · twice weekly

$75 / 60 minutes

For riders accepted into one of the program’s very limited private openings and enrolled twice weekly.

Private · once weekly

$90 / 60 minutes

For riders accepted into one of the program’s very limited private openings and enrolled once weekly.

Performance private

$80 / 60 minutes

Very limited focused coaching for enrolled riders working on a specific higher-level or performance skill.

Group · twice weekly

$65 / 60 minutes

The per-lesson rate for ability-matched riders enrolled in two group lessons each week.

Group · once weekly

$85 / 60 minutes

The per-lesson rate for ability-matched riders taking one group lesson each week.

Supplemental lesson

$55 / 30 minutes

Additional practice for riders already enrolled in the weekly program.

Riders served

Where riders start.

First-time riders

Private instruction in safety, handling, grooming, tacking, position and control, subject to very limited private availability.

Adults and returning riders

Private instruction based on current experience, comfort and goals, subject to very limited private availability.

Recreational riders

Independent riding skills, sound judgment and complete horse handling.

Performance riders

Ability-matched groups and very limited focused private coaching for advanced goals.

Group readiness

Group lessons begin when the rider can work safely and independently.

  • Safe horse handling on the ground
  • Independent grooming and tacking
  • Consistent mounted position and control
  • Ability to follow group instruction safely
  • Appropriate match with the group’s ability level
  • Reliable attendance in the weekly schedule
A young rider sharing a quiet moment with a pony

Complete horsemanship

Riding is only part of the lesson.

Students learn safe handling, grooming, tacking, horse care, judgment and responsibility in addition to riding skills.

Complete the lesson questionnaire →

Growing with the program

Confidence, friendships and goals worth working toward.

Every rider follows an ability-appropriate path, from learning the fundamentals to celebrating progress in the show ring.

A young Shadow Creek Farm rider competing indoors
Building ring experience
A young Shadow Creek Farm rider holding a blue ribbon
Celebrating progress
Three young riders together with their horse-show ribbons
Learning alongside friends

Billing and attendance

Billing, cancellations and makeups.

How are regular lessons billed?

Lessons are invoiced four weeks in advance. Additional lessons outside the regular schedule are billed separately.

What happens when a customer cancels?

Cancellation notices must be sent by email. The email timestamp determines whether notice was received more than 24 hours before the scheduled lesson time. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are charged at the full lesson rate; eligible makeups remain subject to trainer and group availability.

Do unused makeups become credits?

No. The customer coordinates the makeup with the trainer within the two-week window, and normal billing continues.

Can weekend lessons move?

We attend weekend horse shows frequently, so families scheduling weekend lessons should plan for occasional changes. We provide as much advance notice as possible and offer reasonable rescheduling opportunities within the applicable makeup window.

Lesson inquiries

Ready to schedule an introductory lesson?

Review and submit our lesson questionnaire so we can learn about the rider and find the right introductory lesson time.

Complete the lesson questionnaire →