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Birthday parties, Field trips, or other large groups Lessons #1 FAQ- "How many lessons do I need to be able to ride a horse?" The key word is "ride" and the definition seems to be debatable. It can mean just occupying the saddle or it can mean learning the skills to move your mount through whatever task you choose. Riding a horse is similar to learning to play the piano. You can't take two lessons and be a finished musician.  These days, it is hard to tell anyone that anything will take a while to learn, but riding horses takes athletic ability, balance, timing, and lots of practice! At Whispering Pines, we use the old-time method of teaching horsemanship through time, discipline, and dedication. We keep a large string of lesson horses ranging from beginner-type to advanced horses, so riders have the opportunity to gain experience riding at all levels of horsemanship, as well as just learning the basics. #2 FAQ-" What do I do to sign up for lessons?"  In most cases, you will have to sign up for a private lesson, unless there is a new beginner group starting and you are at least nine years old. During your private lesson we will determine whether you can move into group lessons or if more private lessons are needed. Group lessons are held at specific days and times during the week (morning, after school and evenings) and on Saturday (usually morning). Group lessons are $30 per lesson per hour. Sessions are six weeks- one hour once a week for a fee of $180. New students that have had riding instruction will need to ride in one private lesson to be evaluated for placement in the correct class level. Riders need to be 9 yrs. or older to start in a group unless a 6 - 8 year old class is set up. We will set up a class if at least 4 riders will commit to one month at a time. Riders under 9 years old can start in private lessons and take the number of privates necessary for them to achieve the skill level for group lessons. Private lessons are available for students preparing for group lessons or starting after a new class has already begun. Private Lessons - Private lessons made by appointment. The fee is $30 for a 30 minute lesson. Private lessons are for students: too young for group lessons needing help on a specific riding skill preparing for group lessons needing skill level evaluated Group Tours - Birthday parties, Field trips, Church events, Scout Merit Badges, etc. The tours are different to suit the age group of the participants. Tour Packages offer an activity that is fun as well as a learning experience. Spiritual tours are available by request, the emphasis of these tours are to show spiritual parallels to every day things. Jesus and  Bible stories/scriptures are cited. References to God, His love, care and creation are also mentioned. Pony Tour Package-recommended for children 9 yrs. and under. The approximate time is one hour. The first half of the activity is a tour of the stables exploring where a horse lives, what he eats, and where the food comes from, as well as safety rules and grooming. After grooming the horses, a trip to the hay barn and the sawdust bin is always an adventure. During the second half, children take turns being led on ponies. Large groups will be split, so one group can tour while the other rides. Indoor areas provided in case of rain. One hour in the picnic shelter is also included. The cost is $7.50 per child with a $150 minimum fee.  Extra picnic shelter time is available for an additional fee of $25 per hour. A hayride is available for an additional fee of $75 when purchasing a Pony Tour Package. The hayride is approximately 30 minutes long. To reserve a day and time, the $150 minimum fee, hay ride and picnic shelter fees need to be paid in advance. Contact us by e-mail or by phone, leaving a detailed message about the date and time you prefer. Trail Tour Package-recommended for adults or children (9 yrs. or older.) The approximate time is one hour. The first half of the activity is a tour of the stables, including a brief discussion of different types of horses, uses, and riding styles. Then participants will be assisted in grooming, saddling and bridling. The second half will be learning how to mount, basic principles of riding, and either a trail or arena ride. Indoor areas provided in case of rain. The fee is $20 per person with a $100 minimum. The picnic shelter is available for an additional fee of $25 per hour. Trail Rides Over 17 acres of beautiful woods and pasture land for you to enjoy as you relax and ride behind an experienced guide. Trail rides are available by appointment, the fee is $30 per hour. Riders must be at least 9 yrs. old. Younger children can do pony rides Pony Rides Pony rides are $10 per 30 minutes and $5 for each additional child. Call first to make an appointment. You are responsible for leading each pony and supervising children. Hayrides A relaxing ride around the pasture and through the woods. The tractor drawn hay wagon can accommodate around 30 adults/children. The wagon has high sides so no one falls out and yet it doesn't block the view of the nature trails covered with whispering pines and majestic oaks. The ride lasts about 20-30 minutes depending on loading time. The fee is $10 per person with a $100 minimum fee. Discounted to a $75 fee if used with a Tour Package. Day Camp We tend to have one camp per month during summer vacation and sometimes during vacation breaks from school. They are usually held from 9am to 12 noon. Groups are divided by age and ability. Students will learn stable management, horse health care, horse safety and riding skills. Payment must be made in full to reserve space- $200 for the week. Boarding at Whispering Pines Full board is $350 per month, which includes: feed twice daily, watering, turn out and stall cleaning. A large lighted outdoor ring, round pen, indoor riding area, pasture rotation, and trails. Vet and Farrier on call. Tack shop on property. Group lessons are free to boarders. Private lessons Available. No pasture board.