What should my child wear to the lesson?

Closed-toe shoes or boots, long pants or leggings, and weather-appropriate clothing; helmets are provided.

Can I stay with my child during the lesson?

Yes. A parent or guardian must remain on-site for the duration of the lesson.

Are these lessons suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Lessons are designed specifically for ages three to five and progress at the child’s pace.

What happens if weather is bad?

Lessons may be canceled or rescheduled if temperatures reach 90°F or higher, winds exceed 12 mph, or if footing is unsafe after rain.

Can we bring pets or snacks?

No pets are allowed on the property; snacks are not provided—bring water and sunscreen for your child.

How do I find the arena when I arrive?

Follow the dirt road straight back and do not turn right between the first two buildings; if you need help call or text (858) 748-6441.

First Saddle Steps: Little Riders Horseback Lessons in Poway, CA | Horse | Farm

Equine Studies of San Diego – Little Riders (Ages 3–5) brings a child’s first ride to life on the ridgelines above Poway, California. Located at 14875 Mina De Oro Rd, this private ranch offers thirty minute one on one lessons that introduce toddlers to horses through calm age appropriate activities. The landscape here is typical of inland San Diego: low chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and scattered oak trees that catch the light while youngsters groom and lead patient ponies. Each lesson follows a steady sequence designed for young attention spans: a meet and greet to learn safe approaches, hands on grooming to build trust, simple groundwork that teaches communication and leading, and a short guided ride focused on balance and confidence. Instructors tailor every step to a child’s comfort level, keeping sessions encouraging and playful while emphasizing safety and respect for the animal. Practical details are straightforward. Helmets and grooming tools are included. Parents must remain on site and riders should arrive at least thirty minutes before their scheduled lesson for check in and helmet fitting. The ranch asks visitors to follow the dirt road straight back and not to turn right between the first two buildings; if you have trouble finding the arena call or text (858) 748-6441. Lessons are by appointment only; single thirty minute lessons cost sixty five dollars while a four lesson package is priced at two hundred forty dollars. Weather and footing are closely monitored. Lessons will be canceled if temperatures reach ninety degrees Fahrenheit or higher if winds exceed twelve miles per hour or if recent rain has made the ground unsafe. Those policies protect both children and horses and help ensure every session is positive. The private facility limits capacity which creates a calm learning environment ideal for first timers or for children who need extra attention. What makes these Little Riders lessons special is the focus on relationship building. Even in a brief half hour, a child learns how grooming creates trust how gentle cues lead to cooperation and how confidence grows one small success at a time. For families visiting Poway or locals seeking a careful, friendly introduction to horseback riding, this program offers a safe, memorable first step into horsemanship. Lessons are strictly for children ages three through five only and instructors maintain a one child to pony rhythm that fits developmental milestones. The program provides helmets and uses beginner friendly tack sized for small riders. Parents stay nearby while staff manage mounting, lead lines, and a gentle walking pace. The ranch’s private setting reduces distractions and allows instructors to notice subtle cues in both child and horse. Booking in advance is essential because capacity is limited and slots fill.

About San Diego Trail Company

San Diego Trail Company is a family-owned equestrian center located in Poway, California, offering guided trail rides, summer camps, lessons, photo shoots, and special events. Founded to share safe, beginner-friendly horseback experiences, the ranch serves riders of all ages with professional instruction and well-maintained horses. Trail Rides run at a walking pace for safety and comfort, and many rides include a BBQ lunch to complete the outing. Summer Camps provide week-long programming focused on horsemanship, riding basics, games, and arts and crafts to build confidence and practical skills.

Lessons through Equine Studies of San Diego teach essential horsemanship and riding fundamentals for students ages six and up, emphasizing safety, trust, and clear communication between rider and horse. Cowboy Spirit 101 offers a two-day beginner-friendly introduction to cowboy culture, grooming, and riding skills in a hands-on format. Birthday party packages combine short trail rides with grooming lessons and space for celebrations, tailored to children aged seven and up. Photo shoot sessions allow visitors to bring a photographer and capture portraits against a scenic ranch backdrop with trained horses.

Safety protocols, professional instruction, and a focus on horse welfare underpin all programming. The facility prioritizes rider comfort by maintaining a walking-only pace on group trail rides and delivering individualized attention during lessons and camps. San Diego Trail Company’s combination of experienced staff, structured programming, and a picturesque Poway setting creates reliable, memorable equestrian experiences for families and beginners. Advance reservations are recommended for popular dates and private events to ensure availability today.