Eight Levels from Beginner to Advanced

Breeze Level

Gentle Introduction to Horses for Young Riders

Our introductory level creates safe, fun experiences for young children. Students ride on leadline with Ground Buddy assistance while learning basic horse safety and care concepts.

• Basic horse safety practices and essential equine terminology for young learners
• Pre-ride preparation skills and proper safe riding attire requirements
• Secure balanced riding position development at walk with instructor assistance
• Introduction to trot riding with full support and safety supervision
• Horse care routines including grooming, cooling out, and stall cleaning basics

Zephyr Level

Foundation Riding Skills and Ground Safety

Students learn essential handling and riding skills, building a strong foundation in mounted safety. This level covers ground safety concepts before focusing on mounting, dismounting, and basic gaits.

• Basic horse safety practices and pre-ride routine including grooming and tacking
• Balanced position and natural aids usage for effective communication with horses
• Survival skills including defensive seat, emergency stop, and emergency dismount
• Introductory ring figures at walk with focus on accuracy and control
• Posting to trot development with goal of completing one full arena lap

Tailwind Level

Building Confidence and Security at the Trot

Students develop the ability to ride safely and securely at trot while building a balanced seat and confidence. Focus on accuracy, harmony with horse, and foundational skills for advanced work.

• Efficient ride preparation and proper horse care after riding sessions
• Safe stirrup and girth adjustment methods for independent equipment management
• Posting diagonals and rein changes at trot for balanced riding technique
• No-stirrup riding at walk and trot including longe line work for seat development
• Balanced two-point position over ground poles with flowing course navigation

Soar Level

Introduction to Canter and Jumping Fundamentals

Students advance to canter and basic jumping while developing increased independence. This level teaches riders to consider their influence on the horse and take responsibility for horse welfare.

• Efficient ground handling routines and independent tacking up capabilities
• Speed control techniques at walk and trot for proper horse management
• Canter riding along rail, through circles, and over single ground poles
• Posting diagonal and lead awareness including simple lead changes at canter
• Secure jumping position over ground poles and small crossrails for English riders

Gale Level

From Arena to Open Riding

Students transition from passenger to thinking rider with attention to horse balance and movement. Students develop the skills needed for safe riding in open spaces and over obstacles.

• Mounted exercises for independent seat development and improved balance
• No-stirrup work at all three gaits for a more secure seat and position
• Bend and balance awareness with correct diagonals and leads at all gaits
• Accurate dressage arena riding with goal of completing Intro Level tests
• Open space riding skills including trail obstacles and arena jumping courses

Skyrider Level

Intermediate Riding with Hand Gallop and Contact

Students ride with increased confidence, control, and influence over horse balance. English riders develop jumping skills while Western riders master trail challenges and obstacles.

• Successful warm-up elements and importance of listening to horse feedback
• Steady light contact riding with correct bend through turns at all gaits
• Turn on forehand and haunches with precise aid coordination and timing
• Hand gallop with secure balanced galloping position for speed control
• Cross-country trail riding skills and jumping courses up to 2 feet height

Tempest Level

Advanced Flatwork and Complex Obstacles

Students acquire an independent seat and coordinated aid use for advanced riding. Requires commitment to self-directed practice and hours of dedicated riding time for skill mastery.

• Sophisticated flatwork including direct transitions and harmonious dressage tests
• Introductory lateral movements such as leg yield and sidepass techniques
• Secure galloping position with knowledge of striding and pole distances
• English riders jump varied grids and courses up to 2'6"-2'9" heights
• Western riders navigate complex trail obstacles and polework without stirrups

Mistral Level

Master Level Training and Advanced Horsemanship

Students become empathetic riders and horse trainers with sophisticated dressage techniques. This level introduces training philosophy and requires confidence, a secure position, and extensive experience.

• Progressive training and dressage theory for independent schooling session structure
• Coordinated aid use allowing horse to work over back with straightness
• Lateral maneuvers including shoulder-in, haunches-in, and challenging transitions
• Countercanter riding and preparation for flying lead change development
• English jumping over 3-foot courses and Western one-handed riding proficiency

Before You Arrive

Plan Your Visit

Have questions about cancellations, what to wear, or safety? Check out our FAQ for quick answers or our barn rules page for safety guidelines.