Horseback Riding in Gastonia, North Carolina (Gaston County)

Come ride with us! Sunset Ridge offers lessons for all levels and ages in Hunters, Jumpers and Dressage! We travel to to local schooling shows as well as rated shows as well as offer spots on our Interscholastic Equestrian Team.
Family is the most important thing at Sunset Ridge, and we view each horse, customer, and visitor as part of our extended family and so we take care of them just as we would our own. We believe that the equestrian world isn't just about lessons and showing, we believe that it is about truly enjoying our horses and eachother. We do this by not only providing the best care and instruction possible but by scheduling fun events both inside and outside of the barn.
Meet Our Head Trainer:
Diane DeRienzis has 25 yrs. experience teaching, training and barn management. She started her riding career on Long Island in New York where she competed as a junior, amateur and professional in Hunters, Equitation and Jumpers. Her goal is to instill confidence and skill in her riders so that they can connect with their horses in a successful partnership whether their goal is to show on the A circuit or to pleasure ride.
"I believe that everyone at any age can learn, and I welcome children as well as
adults."

Charissa Loftin has been a part of the equestrian world since the age of 8 when she began taking lessons at TTC in Mocksville, NC. Growing up she succesfully competed on the A Circuit and later decided to become a trainer. Charissa has enjoyed teaching riders of all ages and levels for over 20 years and says that the most inspirational part of teaching is watching a rider accomplish something that they didnt thing was possible, no matter how small an accomplishment it is. Charissa believes that every day is a learning experience and that she learns just as much from her students and horses as they learn from herWe are excited to have Charissa join our Sunset Ridge family and help take our students to the next level in the Hunter, Jumper, and Equitation rings.

Lynn O. Boon, BHSAI began riding as a child at the Inverclyde Riding Center in Scotland. She was a working pupil at the center and grew through the ranks of Pony Club while competing in one day events. At 15 years old, she was commissioned to begin the riding program for the Earl of Glasgow at Kelburn Estates. She was the Stable Manager and Head Instructor for several years, and provided the start to what is now a thriving equestrian center. Lynn became a working student for the BHSAI at Bowfield Riding and Country Club, where she worked with Point-to-Point racehorses as part of her program. Lynn believes that "Dressage is a journey every horse and rider should take" and has used this montra in training her students on a variety of horses from Standardbred to Holstiener across the United States. Lynns 30+ years of experience training horses and riders has brought her to Sunset Ridge where she will be teaching lower (through 1st level) dressage. Lynn plans to spread her "dressage is for everyone" message while introducing the foundations of dressage to riders old and young, and horses of every breed and from every discipline. In addition to classic Dressage Lynn will also be teaching Western and Gaited Dressage to those who are interested.

Leah Barnes is one of our most competent and caring trainers, she specializes with tending to and schooling our youngest riders. Leah has over 12 years experience in the saddle, and is experienced in both English and Western. Leah has been with us since the beginning and is one of our best assets and an essential part of our Little Bits program... See More

Heart Centered Horsemanship is a method of training developed to provide mutual benefit to horses and humans. Techniques include relationship building, hands-on techniques to release tension and improve comfort and ease of movement, groundwork to develop connection and communication, adapted yoga practices, and riding to provide maximum benefit to horse and rider. Stacey Carter has over 25 years of experience riding, training, and competing. She has extensive experience starting young horses, rehabilitating "problem" horses, and working with rescues. She is a PATH Certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and Registered Yoga Instructor. The Heart Centered Horsemanship Method has been incorporated into therapeutic programs and is the basis for Healing Connections at Midnight's Promise Equine Rescue, a weekly group that supports mutual healing for horses and humans. She teaches riders from the ground up in a holistic program that emphasizes safety, mindfulness, animal welfare, and having fun while developing skills that enhance all areas of life.

Contact me for information regarding:
-lesson and camp opportunities for children
-trailer-in lessons or distance learning and support for horse owners
-training board
-yoga and horses clinics and group classes for all experience levels... See More

Lessons, Training, Clinics, Judging
USDF Certified Dressage Instructor/Trainer
USDF "L" Graduate with Distinction
USEA Certified Eventing Instructor
Level IV Centered Riding Instructor/Clinician

We are a lesson and training facility in Concord, NC specializing in hunter/jumpers and offering horse care for the most discerning equine owner in a fun and laid back atmosphere. Our trainer, Natalie Stoner, has coached riders of all levels to many championships and year end awards. Natalie likes to keep lessons light and fun while still focusing on proper equitation and building a bond between each horse and rider. Hunter Meadows Farm offers lessons to children and adults of all ability levels on safe well trained horses. Whether you want to learn to control a horse safely on a trail ride, ride for fun, or compete in horse shows, Natalie, our trainer, teaches beginner to advanced levels with patience and kindness.... See More

Lake Pointe is a full service equestrian facility offering boarding, camps, sales, show team, IEA, 4H & birthday parties as well as hunter/jumper & dressage lessons. We pride ourselves in the exceptional care and attention to detail offered at our facility. Our knowledgeable staff are available to assist you in all of your needs. We strive to maintain a top care facility while having a family friendly atmosphere! Our trainers are top professionals in the industry and strive to teach solid horsemanship skills as well as develop competitive riders. Our program is unique since it not only focuses on riding but also horsemanship skills, barn management, and horse care. Give us a call or stop by today! Lake Pointe Equestrian Center...Where champions are made and friendships last a lifetime!... See More

We offer Horse Boarding, Western Style Riding Lessons, Barrel Racing Training, & Horse Training all By a Multi time National Barrel Horse Qualifier & 3-Time Finalist.

A Note from Martha:

Dressage is a beautiful form of communication between a horse and rider.If you are interested in competing in dressage, I can teach you how to choose, apply, and prepare for the event, whether it is local or out of town. I applaud you for showing an interest in dressage - it means you care about your horse, and advance yourself as a rider. Perseverance will bring the two of you many rewards.

I first became involved with dressage, when, as a hunt seat rider, I found myself craving a higher level of communication with my horse. I saw dressage riders create what appeared to be magic with their horses.

For anyone who has learned the art of ballroom dancing, there are many similarities. The man leads, the woman follows, and in the case of riding, the rider leads and the horse follows. The horse will find this as enjoyable as the woman does, if the rider is clear in their "aids" (as when a man "leads" in dancing). If the aids are unclear, the horse will give the wrong response, and possibly even be punished for it. This is very discouraging, and eventually the horse will become sour and resistant.

It is for this reason it is very important for a rider to learn how to isolate the aids, how to properly apply them, and how to combine them as well. I teach the rider how to become aware of the effect their body parts, balance, and even their voice can have on communication with the horse. The rider must train their body as a dancer does, with stretches, holding their position initially with muscle, and learning to relax in the correct position. This requires dedication on the rider's part, stamina, and tremendous concentration. The good news is that the rider does not have to rush this process, and shouldn't try because there are no shortcuts. Be prepared for some frustrating moments, as it takes a lot of repetition to erase old habits, and feeling physically tired at the end of your ride. Those who have givien up other disciplines to try dressage because it is "easier" are in for a big surprise.

I teach riders who own (or beg, borrow, or steal) their own horses. If you don't have access to a horse, I can help find one for you, just check with me.... See More

Folklore Farm specializes in producing quiet well schooled horses for the adult amateur.
We have a fantastic lesson program with numerous horses suited to all ages and riding levels

Wnaaa offers the following:

- Trail Rides for all levels

- Ample pasture room, 125 acre farm

- Five level cross country course, featuring Beginner Novice, Novice, and Training levels. Course includes three water complexes, open and wooded

- Dogs always welcomed (Leashed please.)

- Called away on business, the Ark can board your house pets as well

- Open show circuit hosted here, as well as other circuit sponsored shows

- hourly trail rides available, or hourly rentals available

- Leases available

- Pony Rides

- Petting Zoo

- Petting Zoo & Pony Ride Parties

- Open relaxed atmosphere

- Convenient to other equine venues, Cane Creek, Morrow Mountain,
Uwharrie National Forest, Sugar Loaf Mountain for trail riding, Numerous
other show facilities.

- Participation in Aggressive 6 week worming schedule

- Home to USEA Events

Please visit Wnaaa.com for more information!!... See More

Riding lessons for beginners and advanced riders. All ages are welcome. We will help you to develop into a knowledgeable rider by instructing you on all aspects on how to ride, handle and care for your horse.
Our training program is designed to systematically develop the riders balance and a classical correct seat that gives an increased sense of security which is the foundation for all riding styles.... See More

We love kids we strive to let kids experiance the joys of riding horses.

PLEASE CONTACT US DIRECTLY THROUGH E-MAIL OR BY TEXT! THIS WEBSITE DOES NOT SEND YOUR INFORMATION TO US WHEN YOU INQUIRE. THANKS! We are a family-friendly farm located in Tryon, NC, only minutes from downtown! We offer a comprehensive riding program for ages 6-adult. Hunt Seat instruction is our specialty, although we also provide beginner Western lessons as well as trail lessons. Lessons are taught by experienced instructors in a safe and fun setting! Private and group lessons are available, and there are opportunities to show locally. Partial, on-site horse leases are available to qualified students. Full board is available! We also offer on-site pony parties and pony rides as well as a Summer day camp.... See More

We are a full service American Saddlebred Training and Lesson Facility, offering horseback riding and driving lessons for both the young and young at heart! Whether for competition or just for fun, we have something for everyone. We have winter and summer riding camps, and specialize in Pony Birthday Parties!... See More

Professional Riding Lessons, Ages 3 & Up. English OR Western available.

Specializing in American Saddlebreds & Carriage Driving. Safe, reliable instruction on well selected horses. Call today for more information.

LESSONS-
$135/4 Lessons (45 minutes each)
$40/lesson (45 minutes)
$20/lesson (15 minutes)
$60/1.5 hours- Driving (my horse or yours)

Feel free to visit our facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/bigoak.goldleaf

We are located directly across from Raylen Vineyards, so you can bring yourself or your child for a ride and go enjoy a drive (or drink) at the winery!... See More

Field Rose Farm is retirement farm. We offer both stall and field board. Both types of board include shelter, pasture, feed, grooming, blanketing, fly spray, holding for vet and farrier, pics sent to owner, etc.