Private
Horseback Rides
MOST POPULAR
Small, private rides for a..
Personal horse
experience..
These easy-going, guided rides are the perfect experience for first timers and horse hobbyists that want to connect with our horses in a private setting. Explore our family's woodland ranch throughout Michigan's four seasons. Our guides will lead you through winding forest pathways, open grassy areas, and around our peaceful pond. You could spot a deer or two, as well as birds, ducks, and turkeys if you're lucky! Nervous? No sweat! We also have walkers available upon request to walk with you and your group on the trails to help as needed. ☺︎
Need-to-Knows
Ages 2 + up
280lbs weight limit
Max group of 8
30 or 60 minutes
Walking ride only
Age Policy
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Ages 2-3 (walker required) will ride double up with an adult and be led by a walker. Combined weight should be under 250lbs, and both riders need to fit in a 17" saddle.
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Ages 4-6 (walker required) ride on their own horse led by a walker.
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Ages 7+ ride on their own horse. You can request a walker if you'd like extra help on the trails. 🚶♀️💕🐎
$10 per walker - Our walkers are team members who know our trails and horses. Only members of our team are permitted to walk the trails with the ride. We do not allow the public to walk our trails for everyone's safety.
Weight-to-Height Policy
For the safety and comfort of our horses and riders, we have weight-to-height limits for our trail rides. You can read more about why we do this here. ☺︎
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Riders 151-200lbs should be 5'0" or taller
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Riders 201-250lbs should be 5'3" or taller
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Riders 251-280lbs should be 5'5" or taller
We understand that these limits may seem restrictive, but they are put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both our riders and our horses. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. ☺︎
Helmet Policy
We strongly recommend all riders wear ASTM/SEI-certified helmets for their safety. We advise you bring your own fitted helmet. If needed, we have certified helmets available in various sizes.
Our rides are private only! Meaning when you book, it's just you, the guide and the people you bring. We do not mix groups on the same ride! ☺︎
Half Hour Ride Rates
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$30 per rider
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$60 per double up (ages 2-3 riding with adult - walker included)
One Hour Ride Rates
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$40 per rider
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$70 per double up (ages 2-3 riding with an adult - walker included)
Please make sure you have read and understood our rules and guidelines before you book your ride.
Cancellation Policy: To receive a full refund, please cancel your ride at least 24 hours in advance. If Rise & Ride Ranch cancels your ride due to severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will receive a gift card for the full amount of your ride to reschedule at your earliest convenience.
Basics of Riding
The most important thing to do when riding is to relax. 😊 Just like people, every horse is different. Learn about your horse and their personality as you ride.
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Hold the rein in each hand.
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Keep a loose rein when riding on the trails.
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To turn right, pull gently with your right hand towards your hip.
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To turn left, pull gently with your left hand towards your hip.
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To get the horse moving, nudge their belly with your heels.
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Do not squeeze your legs together while riding as this asks the horse to trot.
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To slow down or stop the horse, pull back on the reins gently towards your hips and say "Whoa." When the horse is stopped, don't keep pulling back on the reins because that will cause them to back up.
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When your horse does what you ask (or you just plain love them), give them a pet or scratch on their neck and say "Good horse!" 😊 This can also help to increase your bond with them.
Please Be Kind
Our horses are rescues! Please be gentle and kind as they have graciously allowed us to ride them.
Tip Your Guide
Enjoy your ride? Kiss your horse and tip the guide! ..but don't mix up the two 😉
Our guides work hard to make your ride safe and enjoyable. Let them know you appreciate it!
Safety
We strongly recommend all riders wear ASTM/SEI-certified helmets for their safety. We advise you bring your own fitted helmet. If needed, we have certified helmets available in various sizes.
Beginners Welcomed
Our horses are very gentle and our guides are focused on the safety of your group. We match you with the right horse based on your riding experience.
Appointment Only
All of our experiences must be booked in advanced. Our calendar fills quickly, so be sure to plan ahead!
Warning
Under the Michigan Equine Activity Liability Act, an equine professional is not liable for any injury to or death of a participant in an equine activity resulting from an inherent risk of the equine activity (PA 351 of 1994).