What you should know before going horseback riding on the Eastern Shore. (FAQs)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What times /days do you offer trail rides?
Our meeting times are 9AM & 4PM, to avoid the heat of the day in the summer months and 10AM & 2PM, to be as warm as possible in the winter months. This is for group and trail rides. Depending on how busy we are and what the weather is doing, we can be flexible with private ride times.
How long are the rides and what do they cost?
The group ride is 1.5hours long, for $80 per person.
The private ride is your choice of the 1.5hr loop - $120 per person, or you may extend your ride to 2hr - $25 extra per person or 2.5hr - $40 extra per person (please note desired tour length in your reservation).
Where do your trail rides go?
Our farm has miles and miles of winding wooded trails and dirt paths through the working fields. Between the freshwater ponds and shoreline, you’ll be looking at water most of your ride!
Do you ride on the beach?
Unfortunately, not. Our farm is located at the top of Cherrystone Creek which means our wetlands are shallow and sheltered, in other words, marshy. There is very little sand along our shoreline. However, our waterfront rails run right along the shore and offer beautiful views of the creek and wildlife.
How many people are on a tour?
Up to 8 riders.
I have no riding experience, is this tour appropriate for me?
Yes. Our horses are very well-trained, calm and easy to ride. We begin every tour by giving a very thorough “how to ride” demonstration. Our guides are professional and are happy to answer any questions you may have along the way. Their job is to keep you well-informed and safe during your ride with us.
Horseback riding is a physical activity, and you will need some flexibility and strength to maintain your balance and to ride/control your horse properly. Understanding of English or Spanish is mandatory for understanding of all instructions before and during the ride.
Do we go fast/gallop on the ride?
This is a scenic trail ride, over varied terrain. It is not meant to be done at a high rate of speed, nor would that be safe. Furthermore, we can only go as fast as the least experienced rider is comfortable, and we take a lot of first timers and beginners. If everyone is capable enough (determined by your lead guide), we can pick up the “paso corto” which is the special gait our horses do. It’s smoother than a trot!
If you’d like to assure you are able to pick up the pace during your ride, the Private Ride is your best choice. CLICK HERE FOR BOOKING.
I’m traveling alone, can I join the group or do I need to book a private ride?
The group ride is for anyone to join, regardless of experience or number of guests.
The private ride is most desirable for:
Advanced riders that want the opportunity to pick up the pace and ride the longer route.
A couple looking for a more intimate experience and extra photos.
Families with young children that need more one on one attention.
Are helmets provided?
Yes. They are mandatory. No exceptions.
What do I wear?
Long pants and shoes that stay on your feet. In summer months, a light, long sleeve shirt to keep the bugs off is best.
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Cancellation Policy
If there are ANY changes to your reservation, please contact us ASAP.
If well in advance, its best to reply to your confirmation email that you received immediately after booking and included any changes.
Customers will receive a full refund with at least 24hours notice.
Contact us by phone (757-695-0550) if you’re experiencing any issues making it to your reservation on the day of. Ie, travel, illness, tardiness, etc.
Same-day cancelations and no-shows will NOT be eligible for a refund.
Rescheduling
If you are unable to make your reservation on the day of your ride, and we can reschedule you to the next time/date available, you will be charged a $25 per rider fee. This goes to your guides that were preparing your horses and expecting to take you riding.
Inclement Weather
Nobody likes to ride in the rain/storms/cold, including us! If we are forecasted to get or are experiencing less then desirable riding weather, we’ll be in touch. Your guide will be checking the radar (in summer months) prior to the ride and deciding if we will proceed as planned, postponing to avoid a quick shower, or will need to reschedule. In winter months, which is more predictable in advance, we can certainly reschedule to a prettier day. Therefore, we will be in touch if the weather will affect your ride. No news is good news!
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We have a strict weight limit of 210 pounds. This is due to the small, narrower breed of horses that we ride; the Spanish-bred, Paso Fino
We must also consider height and experience level when weight approaches/exceeds 200 pounds.(i.e. A beginner rider that is 5'5, 210 is not suited to our tour, as balance is very important). We realize this is a sensitive subject, but please understand that the safety of our horses and riders is very important to us and thus we reserve the right to refuse service.
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Our minimum age limit for the 1.5 hr trail ride is 8 years old. Those children ages 8 & 9 must have some sort of previous riding experience (pony rides, lessons, etc.), however, ages 10 and up, that are first timers, generally do just fine.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
All riders are expected to take instruction and be capable of controlling their own horse.
Small children are not permitted to ride with an adult, on the same horse, as it is dangerous.
Safety is our number one concern! If you have any doubts or questions concerning your children, please give us a call to discuss.
If you have small children that want to ride, please see info on our Pony Rides HERE.
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Tipping is 100% recommended.
Your guides work hard to make you feel comfortable and confident on your horses. They keep you safe, educate you on your surroundings, can be your personal source of local information, and will take multiple photos for you. Showing your appreciation by tipping them after your ride puts a huge smile on their faces. We accept cash or Venmo.
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Is it necessary to make reservations?
Yes. It is very important to make reservations, in advance. And another word of advice; don’t wait until the last day of your vacation to go riding. In case of inclement weather, and the guide cancels the ride (not likely but it can happen), you’d want to have time to reschedule during your stay.
What if the time/date I want to book is not available online?
Please complete the Waitlist request form so that we have all your information if we can in fact fit you into our existing schedule or if we have any cancellations. You will be notified if we can accommodate you.