Brianna HarrisonA Guide to the 5 Best Horse Riding Lessons in Toronto
Looking for a fun and unique way to explore the city? Why not try horse riding? This activity is a great way to see the sights and get some exercise at the same time!
There are plenty of great schools in the area, and we’ve got our favourite picks for you.
Get the best experience with our guide to the five top horse riding lessons in Toronto!
Top Horse Riding Lessons in Toronto
How did we choose and evaluate the top horse riding lessons in Toronto?
How much do horse riding lessons in Toronto cost?
In the table below, you’ll see the most common types of riding lessons, along with their duration and estimated prices.
The cost of horse riding lessons in Toronto largely depends on the type, whether it’s an individual private class, group session, or a full camp or course. The age of the student is also a factor.
1. Toronto Equestrian Downtown
| CLASS STRUCTURE | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| RATES | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
| INSTRUCTORS | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Reputation | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| LOCATION | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Safety | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Accessibility | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Offering horse riding programs to newcomers and experienced riders, Toronto Esquestarian Downtown is one of the top horse riding places in town. They provide a variety of lessons and programmes for people who are into learning this new skill.
For one, they have private classes with 50-minute sessions at a price of $588 for 4 classes. Group lessons are offered for students within the same range of skill at the cost of $348 for 4 sessions as well.
They also provide 8-week courses for both kids and adults at the cost of $900.
Both classes will teach the basics of horse handling, grooming, and riding. Within those weeks, riders will eventually learn how to ride and control their own horses.
One of their clients shared how glad they were to find the place. They were thinking of attending horse riding lessons but didn’t want to commit to long-term sessions – but now, 4-group classes were the right amount for them to get an overview of the sport.
However, one also mentioned that although they enjoyed the classes, the lessons felt too packed that they weren’t able to maximise and enjoy their time. They recommended for classes be a bit longer and spread out throughout the months.
Payments for the lessons are very flexible—from debit, credit, and eTransfer to cheque—customers can choose whichever is good for them. They also offer make-up lessons for students who canceled lessons with at least 24 hours notice.
We also looked into their other fees. A customer we interviewed shared how disappointed they were with all the additional fees booking a horse riding lesson had entailed.
Apparently, they have surcharges for private lessons, late fees, and other rules that seem a bit too much.
Aside from booking classes, they also offer Holiday Camp, March Break Camp, and Adult Camp programmes that riders can choose from. This can also be another enjoyable way to find like-minded horse folks and learners.
When it comes to instructors, the owners Julianne Clifford and Sue Iwan, already had a horse riding school before, which shows how effective their riding class will be.
Other instructors are said to be knowledgeable and supportive, too, as they really try to explain to kids and cheer for those who might look nervous or afraid. Aside from giving techniques, they also provide feedback to better help the learners.
Furthermore, a customer was delighted to express how the horses and their stable looks clean and cared for by caretakers. The management was also clear with their programmes and explain instructions very clearly.
Toronto Esquetarian Downtown is easily accessible. It is located next to the exhibition loop, which makes it easy to go by car and public transportation like TTC or go transit.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of classes and camp programmes
- Flexible payment
- Instructors are experienced and supportive
- Instructors provide feedback
- Place is clean and taken care of
- Location is accessible to private and public transportation
Cons
- Classes may feel too packed
- Has surcharges and other fees
Customer Reviews
Knowledgeable instructors
“As stated earlier I would provide a further update. My granddaughter has enjoyed every moment at this riding school. The instructors are knowledgeable and provide positive feedback. We have been to other schools, but this is the best,” —Jan Stiff, Google Reviews
Management has horses and riders as their top priority
“Horses are kept to the highest standard with regard to the unique facility they are kept in. Management clearly has horses and riders as their top priority!” —Peter Oliff, Google Reviews
2. Pathways on Pleasure Valley
| CLASS STRUCTURE | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| RATES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| INSTRUCTORS | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| > Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Reputation | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| LOCATION | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| > Safety | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| > Accessibility | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Pathways on Pleasure Valley offers training for both riders and horses to provide a safe and exciting way of learning for everyone. They are situated at a 225-acre picturesque scenery and forest trails perfect for events and other activities as well.
Riding lessons are offered to ages 7 to 60+, focusing on the western style of riding. They work on beginners and advanced riders that may want to work with groups to semi-private classes.
Moreover, they also have the Ultimate Horsemanship Lesson package, which is their comprehensive 6-month class that includes group and private lessons as well as membership to the facility.
The price starts at $110 for the semi-private lesson and $130 for the private lesson. 8-week group lessons are also offered at $600 to cater to those who would want longer and more consistent periods of horse riding.
Unfortunately, a customer we’ve spoken to shared their difficulties regarding the cancelation of appointments.
They experienced not getting a reply and still getting charged for the reservation because the staff wasn’t able to acknowledge their message.
The destination is also closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, which has been an issue for some customers.
Nevertheless, lots of people still patronise Pathways on Pleasure Valley for their beautiful scenery, gentle horses, and trusted quality lessons.
One student commented how their classes are great for beginners as they don’t really put on pressure to make you learn everything. Moreover, their guides and instructors are kind, energetic, and accommodating.
The facilities and horses are said to be accessible and well taken care of, which made it a more fantastic experience for them. Even with worry and feeling nervous, seeing the place made them feel relaxed and focused on learning how to ride.
Pros
- Classes for 7 to 60+ years of age
- Offers membership
- Beautiful trail and scenery
- Classes perfect for beginners
- Kind and energetic guides and instructors
- Horse and facilities are well taken care of
Cons
- Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Unresponsiveness regarding inquiries or cancelations
Customer Reviews
Trail guide was happy to answer all of our questions and engage in conversation
“This was my girlfriend’s first time riding a horse and my second time, she had a blast. They made getting on the horse very comfortable and easy, and it was not stressful or confusing, which I think is ideal for a first-timer. Ezra was our trail guide, and they were absolutely amazing. Ezra took lots of photos for us and was happy to answer all of our questions and engage in conversation. The trail ride is beautiful, especially since it is the fall. I would highly recommend Pathways on Pleasure Valley for either a nice date for you and your significant other or to go do something interesting with your family and friends. We are definitely going back!” —Alex Petrou, Google Reviews
Organised and seamless process
“My 10-year-old daughter has been asking to go horseback riding forever, and this was the perfect place! I thought an hour would be too long, but the time flew by, and it was perfect. They were very organized from the time you drove in. The expectations were emailed/texted ahead of time which made the entire process seamless. They take plenty of photos so as not to worry about not being able to take your phone with you on the ride. Will definitely be back for a ride in the fall!” —Michelle S., Google Reviews
3. Meadowlarke Stables South – Mississauga
| CLASS STRUCTURE | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| RATES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| INSTRUCTORS | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Reputation | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| LOCATION | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| > Safety | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| > Accessibility | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Meadowlarke Stables South promotes itself as a place where newcomers and experienced riders may come and achieve their horse riding goals. They take care not only of horses but also of other animals that need shelter.
They feature heartwarming stories of their horses and other rescue animals like lambs, cows, pigs, etc. They would describe the animal’s condition before they are brought in the stales up until now when they have grown and are taken care of.
In terms of class structure, they have private and group lessons.
For 30 minutes in 4 days, private lessons can be held at $270 per month. Lessons can vary whether you are a starter, returning from a break, or even for competition.
Group lessons include the basics of horse handling, grooming, and riding for 7 to 8 weeks. This is open for groups of all ages, as young as 8 years old, all at a price of $360.
They also have other packages like March Break Riding Camp, catering for ages 7 to 14 years old, where kids can participate in horse care and riding at a price of $450. Group games and races are also included to make the programme worthwhile.
Aside from the programmes, competitions and rentals can also be done at Meadowlarke Stables South. They even have their own Summer and Winter Competition Series, participated by their students.
Their location can also be easily accessed by students with private vehicles. Others can have the option to ride public transportation as the Mississauga Transit is near the site’s driveway.
One thing to note, though, is that customer service experience may vary. One parent talked about registering and showing up at the camp for one of the classes but ended up going home because the staff wasn’t able to send a confirmation.
Another also had technical issues with online registration. Although their payment went through, they received no confirmation about the class they booked.
This led them to contact the staff to report, but they didn’t get any help or assistance at all. They said that it was unfortunate that a few minutes of help from the staff would’ve made them and their kid experience horse riding at Meadowlarke Stables South.
To add, one customer also mentioned the condition of the area after enrolling their kid to the programme. Equipment and clothes apparently seemed too old for kids to use.
Nonetheless, one of the students voiced that the instructors are very excellent.
They are clear in giving instructions and helped them with lessons they struggled with. It seems that the programme is well-made for beginners.
A mother of one of the kids said that the instructors are patient and helpful. She did not regret enrolling her kid in the class and will indeed enroll her in more advanced classes.
Pros
- Private and group classes available
- Camp and competitions are open
- Location is easy to access for students
- Instructors are excellent and patient
Cons
- Poor customer service
- Problems with online registration
- Stables and equipment need upgrading
Customer Reviews
I’ve had the best experience
“I started riding at Meadowlark stables in June. I’ve had the best experience. The trainers and the horses are really nice here. I would recommend you to go here.” —Kayla Coxon, Google Reviews
The horses are well taken care of and the instructors are so kind
“I ride here at the south location, and it is a very wonderful place the horses are well taken care of by the workers, and the instructors are so kind. I have recently fallen in love with Moonstone and Gus, I see some reviews here saying the horses are not well taken care of, and the facility is gross. I can assure you that the horses and other animals are well taken care of. If a horse is sick, it gets all the medical attention it needs. I also see them get fed, and they are certainly not overworked. My instructor, Paula is wonderful, and just because the stable is old doesn’t mean it is horrible. It is a welcoming place, and I recommend riding here!” —Penny Lidster, Google Reviews
4. The Ranch
| CLASS STRUCTURE | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| RATES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| INSTRUCTORS | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Reputation | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| LOCATION | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| > Safety | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Accessibility | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
A place for beginner and expert riders, The Ranch offers the best horseback riding adventures and lesson programmes. They claim to have safe horses, friendly staff, and a picturesque view perfect for scenic trails.
They offer a wide variety of classes for different times availability, at ages 8 and above. Children’s classes can be done in groups, semi-private, weekday private, evening, and weekend lessons at a price of $70 to $90 per lesson.
Interested students and parents may even see and watch for themselves how classes are held to get an overview of how lessons are conducted. Enroled students can also be watched by their parents.
The Ranch also puts importance on establishing confidence in horse riding. This can make their adult classes a bit more challenging for some.
Price rates start at $90 per 45 minutes every weeknight/weekend and up to $700 for a 10-lesson group class.
Aside from riding classes, they offer a 90 Minute Trail Ride Experience and Twilight Group Rides perfect for families and friends. The former is focused on exploring the farm, while the latter offers BBQ and a Campfire!
They also provide Summer Day Camps that include horse care, horse riding, team games, arts and crafts, and other activities that kids may enjoy. Gift Certificates can also be purchased for you to give to your loved ones.
To get a glimpse of their instructors, The Ranch provides a short description of their coaches, which interested learners may choose from. They show where the instructors started and how their love for horse riding developed.
In terms of horse riding experience at The Ranch, a customer relayed their concern that the 90-minute trail ride they offer is really just a 30-minute registration and a 60-minute ride. This might be underwhelming for some.
Some also remarked that for first-timers, the location might be a bit confusing.
There is no indication of where to go and what to do unless you go to someone and personally ask. Their facility is not maintained as well, which made them feel uneasy.
Nevertheless, this didn’t stop a couple from availing of their services. The husband mentioned that their instructors did a good job of teaching them and making them feel safe.
Moreover, one voiced out that the scenery definitely takes the cake. The ride itself may be quite slow to ensure their safety, but the wonderful photos taken by the staff made it a time to remember.
Pros
- Interested learners may watch classes
- Classes may be booked depending on availability
- Campfire and BBQ
- Instructors are featured on the website
- Beautiful scenery
Cons
- Facility is not maintained and can be confusing
- Remarks on the inefficiency of trail ride programme duration
Customer Reviews
Truly an unforgettable experience
“Amazing experience, only a ~30 mins drive from Toronto! Surprised my partner for his birthday, it was his first time on a horse, and he had a blast! We even did some trotting along the trail. Truly an unforgettable experience, and we will definitely be back soon. Highly recommend The Ranch if you’re looking for a great trail ride experience.” —Melanie Tamilia, Google Reviews
Great and professional demonstration session for first-time riders
“FUN experience! Great and professional demonstration session for first-time riders and friendly staff who help you take lots of pictures along your ride, and [there are] cute horses, each has their own personality. Highly recommend it and will bring my other friends to come and try again!” —Murphy C., Google Reviews
5. Fallbrook Trail Ranch
| CLASS STRUCTURE | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| RATES | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| INSTRUCTORS | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| > Experience | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| > Reputation | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| LOCATION | ★★★★☆ (4.5/5) |
| > Safety | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
| > Accessibility | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Fallbrook Trail Ranch offers horse riding lessons of different kinds that fit the needs of interested learners. They offer their space for picnics, as well as for company and family parties.
In general, trail rides are priced at $65 per hour.
They have the Junior Program for children, which includes a 1-hour trail ride, animal care, swimming, and other activities, all at a price of $450 a week. These are catered for kids ages 4 to 10 years old.
The Rancher Program, on the other hand, is for ages 10 years old and above. This package costs $500 a week and includes a 1-hour lesson, 1-hour trail ride, 1-hour swimming, and animal care.
They have different themes and events per week not necessarily focused on horse riding. Lunches are also served during weekends, but goers can opt to have a picnic while they’re there.
One customer we interviewed found the place after weeks of wanting to try horseback riding. They said that the place has good value for money as there are also other activities they enjoyed, like swimming, aside from horseback riding.
Another also specified how pleased they were with the riding instructors as they went step by step into explaining everything. Two people were also guiding them, one leading while the other at the back to make sure everything is going well.
A customer stated that they were impressed with how Fallbrook Trail Ranch is maintained and how the horses were calm and friendly.
One thing that needs improvement, however, is their customer management.
A customer expressed their disappointment after booking a slot and getting a call confirmation from the staff, and yet they only just got squeezed up in the schedule last minute.
A customer also told a story where their group was paired up with horses that didn’t match their height and skills. Even though they told the staff, they still didn’t resolve the issue, which made them feel quite unsafe and anxious during the whole ride.
Nevertheless, we cannot put behind the other positive comments with regard to their experience at Fallbrook Trail Ranch. The place is one of the best spots for horse riding because of its affordable rates, beautiful site, and variety of other activities to enjoy.
Pros
- Other activities like swimming and crafts are available
- Site is open for parties and events
- Programmes are offered to riders as young as 4 years old
- Ranch is well managed
- Instructors explain rules clearly
Cons
- Needs improvement with customer communication and management
- Comments on mismatching of horses with students
Customer Reviews
My son is safe and happy there
“My son has attended the camp three years in a row and loves his time at Fallbrook. The program offers variety each day, including swimming in a warm pool, horseback riding, trail rides, horse care, and lots of crafts. The kids all receive unique “awards” at the end of each week, and my son is always proud of the title awarded to him (e.g. little adventurer, good listener etc). The owners prioritize safety, including no social media for the kiddos. My son is safe and happy there and runs out of the car to his group each day. Love this place! The counselors are often university students home for the summer and are kind leaders who help the kids have fun and feel a sense of belonging.” —Danielle Palombi, Google Reviews
A lovely place for families, very kid friendly
“This is a great place for beginners or families with children, but if your looking for something at a more intermediate level this place is not for you. There will be some trotting but not enough to feel the full experience. The staff were extremely helpful and our leader Victoria and Brittany assisted us with any questions we had, so otherwise worth the visit… It’s a lovely place for families, very-kid friendly.” —Firas Forbes, Google Reviews
FAQs About Horse Riding Lessons in Toronto
We hope our review of horse riding lessons gets you excited about trying them out. Horseback riding is a great way to improve your fitness and enjoy the outdoors!
If you want more animal adventures, try visiting zoos! Learn more by reading our guide to the 15 best zoos animal lovers should visit in Canada.
