A Heartwarming Visit to Riding High Farm

At Gentle Gallop, we are always inspired by organizations that create safe, welcoming spaces where horses and people can thrive together.

During our recent visit to Riding High Farm, we experienced exactly that — a warm, supportive community filled with compassion, dedication, and an incredible love for therapeutic riding.

From the moment we arrived, everyone at the farm made us feel welcomed. The volunteers were enthusiastic, caring, and clearly passionate about the work they do each day. There was such a strong sense of teamwork throughout the property that it truly felt like one big family. Every person we met shared the same goal: creating a positive and empowering experience for riders of all abilities.

As we toured the property, it became clear how much thought and care goes into every part of the farm. The environment was calm, peaceful, and designed to make riders feel comfortable and supported. Horses grazed in nearby fields while volunteers prepared lessons and assisted riders with genuine patience and kindness. There was a feeling of positivity everywhere we looked.

The farm is home to 18 horses, each with their own unique story and personality. Some of the horses were donated to the farm, while others came from Amish communities or were rescued from slaughter situations and given a second chance at life. It was inspiring to see how these horses now play such an important role in helping riders build confidence, strength, and connection. Their stories are a reminder of how healing and transformative second chances can be — not only for people, but for animals as well.

Every horse at the farm contributes something special to the therapeutic riding program. Some horses are calm and steady for beginner riders, while others help more advanced riders continue developing their skills. The bond between the horses and riders was visible during every lesson. Riders smiled proudly as they rode through the arena, and the horses responded with patience and gentleness.

One of the riders’ favorite horses is Duncan, the smallest horse at the farm. Standing at just 12 hands tall, Duncan has become especially beloved among riders for his gentle nature and adorable personality. Despite his small size, he has a huge impact on the people around him. Many riders feel instantly comfortable around Duncan, and it was easy to understand why he has become such a cherished member of the farm family.

We also had the pleasure of meeting Anne Hoskins, the farm’s barn manager. Anne plays an important role in keeping the farm running smoothly and also captures beautiful photographs of both the riders and horses around the property. Her dedication to preserving special moments through photography allows families and riders to look back on meaningful memories created at the farm. Anne’s warmth and care for both the horses and people were evident throughout our visit.

Another incredible person we met was Julie D. Nelson, a trainer at the farm who was extremely informative and welcoming. Julie shared her lifelong experience with horses, explaining that she has worked with them ever since she was a child. Listening to her speak about therapeutic riding and horsemanship was inspiring because her passion was so genuine. She took the time to explain the farm’s programs, the personalities of the horses, and the importance of creating trusting relationships between horse and rider.

Julie’s experience and patience clearly make a difference in the lives of the riders she works with. She spoke about how therapeutic riding can help riders build confidence, improve coordination, and create emotional connections with horses. It was inspiring to hear how much care goes into matching each rider with the right horse and creating individualized experiences that help riders succeed.

One of the most meaningful features at the farm was their wheelchair mounting lift system, which helps riders with mobility challenges safely mount horses. Seeing this adaptive equipment in action highlighted the farm’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that more individuals have the opportunity to experience the benefits of therapeutic riding. The system allows riders who use wheelchairs to participate more comfortably and safely, opening doors for many individuals who may not otherwise have access to horseback riding.

The farm also includes sensory tools placed around the property to support neurodivergent riders. These thoughtful additions help create a calming and engaging environment where riders can feel comfortable, supported, and understood. It was wonderful to see how intentionally the farm has been designed to meet the needs of many different individuals. The sensory-focused spaces help riders feel more relaxed and confident during their time at the farm.

Beyond the riding arenas and barns, the property itself added to the welcoming atmosphere. The farm even had a charming chicken coop on the property, which added to the peaceful, home-like feeling of the environment. Small details like this made the farm feel warm, lively, and welcoming to everyone who visited.

Another thing that stood out during our visit was the dedication of the volunteers. Many volunteers assist riders during lessons by walking alongside horses, helping riders feel safe and encouraged throughout the experience. Their enthusiasm and compassion were impossible to miss. The volunteers truly help make the farm’s mission possible, and their commitment reflects the caring spirit that exists throughout the entire organization.

Throughout the visit, it became clear that Riding High Farm is much more than just a riding center. It is a place where riders build confidence, friendships, and independence. It is a place where rescued horses are given meaningful new lives. Most importantly, it is a community built on kindness, inclusion, and support.

Our experience visiting Riding High Farm was truly unforgettable. The welcoming atmosphere, passionate staff, dedicated volunteers, and incredible horses all came together to create something special. We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn more about their mission and witness the positive impact they make every single day.