Equine Experiences
Perfect for Children and Adults Alike
Take a trip! Discover the world of equine assisted services through hands-on interaction with our horses and ponies. Try your hand at carriage driving, grooming or riding! High Hopes will create a unique experience tailored to meet the needs of school and university classes, senior groups or club outings on our 120 acre farm with our herd of special horses. Groups may bring their own snacks or lunch to enjoy in our picnic area.
Select dates available throughout the year and are scheduled around our weekly lesson program.
One-Time Mounted Equine Experience
Mounted experiences may include either riding or carriage driving and may be done in a rotation with one group mounted while the other group participates in an un-mounted horsemanship. Each High Hopes horse has their own personal weight limit with a maximum weight limit for horseback riding of 180 lbs.
Length: 1.5 hours of activity time
Click to inquire about pricing and scheduling.
One-Time Unmounted Horsemanship Experience
Unmounted experiences provide an introduction to our horses and equine assisted services. Participants can share their goals and we will work to develop a plan that supports their needs in a safe and supportive environment. Goals may focus on a variety of topics from horsemanship skills to personal wellness. These experiences can be scheduled one time or quarterly. To discuss options, please fill out the inquiry form.
Length: 1.5 hours of activity time
Click to inquire about pricing and scheduling.
One-Time Educational Experience
Enjoy a tour of our PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center and learn about equine assisted services. This opportunity is ideal for aspiring professionals, community outreach clubs, and anyone interested in learning about operating a therapeutic riding center and non-profit business.
Length: 1 hour of activity time
Click to inquire about pricing and scheduling.
Make Lasting Memories
Pony Parties
Come join us for a two hour visit at High Hopes where we will provide up to six horses and trained staff to lead a mounted 30-60 minute riding session for up to 12 individuals with time for grooming and barn activities (some limitations based on resources). We ask that you provide parental supervision, horse friendly decorations, party supplies and refreshments. Please keep in mind that our fire hazard precautions prohibit the use of lit candles indoors and each horse has a uniquely assigned weight limit which may dictate availability.
High Hopes Will Provide:
- PATH Intl. certified therapeutic riding instructor to conduct mounted riding activities
- Half hour for party and cake time
- Trained and knowledgeable volunteers to support participants during mounted and unmounted activities
Reserving Our Facility:
- A $50 deposit is required to hold the space
- Registration and Release form must be completed 2 weeks prior. Participants with diagnoses will also need to complete a physicians form clearing them for equestrian activities.
- $25 late fee for paperwork and/or payment
- Charges may apply if space is not returned to its original condition
Equine Experience Inquiry
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A Place to Heal, Learn & Make Friends
Equine assisted activities and therapies may be therapeutic if a participant derives benefit, shows improvement or feels better once engaged.
Our ProgramsLeading Riders to Results
As a charitable nonprofit organization, High Hopes is governed by a 17-member all-volunteer Board of Trustees, and managed by a professional staff of 25 paid employees, of whom 12 are full-time. The staff is augmented by over 652 active volunteers who further support our daily operations.
Our TeamHave Questions or Just Want to Say Hey?
High Hopes Therapeutic Riding is located at 36 Town Woods Road, Old Lyme, CT.
Contact UsMeet the Herd
Get to know all of our beautiful and intelligent horses who live for their work. These amazing creatures have been working wonders for years.
Our Horses