Riding program
Please reserve rides as early as possible.
We welcome riders of all experience levels. To help ensure a safe and positive experience, children must be at least 5 years old to ride.
Riding schedules are coordinated through the link above. If your plans change please update the sheet and communicate directly with the wrangler via text within 24 hours of your schooled time.
Group size and ride type may affect availability (we are trying to max out at 7 people.)
If you are visiting with a larger group, please avoid reserving rides for everyone every day at the outset. The riding program is enjoyed by many families throughout the season — locals and visitors alike. A rough head count is often enough to begin with, leaving room for others while plans take shape.
What is available
Lead rope rides
A first introduction to horses for younger riders, led at a comfortable pace by a member of the ranch team.
Horses have long been part of the rhythm of life at Lansdowne. Family may ride out with the wrangler or head off on their own across familiar country. Whether your first ride or your hundredth, the day tends to move a little slower from the saddle.
Trail Rides
Unhurried rides through the ranch’s open country and familiar trails.
Advanced Trail rides
For experienced riders comfortable in the saddle and looking to cover more ground at a quicker pace
Independent Rides
For confident riders familiar with horses and ranch expectations who wish to explore on their own. If you choose to ride independently, the care of your horse belongs to you — including saddling, unsaddling, grooming, and returning tack to its proper place. Independent riding still requires a reservation and a quick check in with the wrangler who will guide advise you on horse personalities, active Ranch concessions, and the secret paths of the ranch.
One of the small joys of ranch life is that not everything needs to be packed in a suitcase.
Some of us still remember the horse we rode here decades ago; others still remember the boots we wore when we were twelve.
That’s how memories take root in a place.
Rides
Leyla has adjusted the riding schedule slightly, and rides will now depart at 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The extra time between groups gives her a chance to get horses settled, regroup, and have everything ready for the next ride.
If you’re riding, it helps if everyone can make their way to the Saddle House about 15 minutes before departure. A little extra time makes for a smoother start and keeps the day moving at a relaxed ranch pace.
Whenever possible, Leyla also appreciates keeping groups to around seven riders or fewer. Smaller groups tend to be easier on the horses, easier to manage on the trail, and often make for a more enjoyable ride for everyone. There are plenty of openings throughout the week if families would like to spread out.
Cowboy boots and riding gear
If you’re headed to the barn and discover you’ve forgotten your boots, don’t worry. Over the years, families have left behind a remarkable collection of cowboy boots in just about every size imaginable, and we’ve organized them downstairs in the Main Cabin basement for everyone to enjoy.
Please feel free to borrow a pair during your stay. The boots have been sorted into men’s, women’s, teens’, and kids’ sections, with a separate bin for the smallest cowpokes. We simply ask that when your riding adventures are over, you return them to their proper spot so the next rider can find them just as easily.