Do I need prior horse riding experience?

No, the Mini Riding Lesson is designed for all experience levels, including beginners.

What should I wear for the lesson?

Wear comfortable, layered clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots suitable for riding.

Are lessons suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome as long as they meet basic safety and size requirements; inquire about age limits.

How long is each riding lesson?

Mini Riding Lessons typically last between one to two hours.

Is the lesson outdoors or indoors?

Lessons take place outdoors, allowing you to connect with nature and the horses in Montana’s open landscape.

Can I book the lesson year-round?

The experience is available year-round, though availability may vary seasonally due to weather conditions.

Mini Riding Lesson at Firefly Horse Co., Montana | Guided Tour | Attraction

Firefly Horse Co. Wellness Retreat Center, located just outside Columbia Falls, Montana, offers a unique connection to the rugged landscape of Northwestern Montana through their Mini Riding Lesson or Experience. Situated near the eastern edge of Glacier National Park, this retreat is a gateway to pristine wilderness marked by towering conifers, rolling foothills, and the distant peaks of the Rocky Mountains. The riding lessons invite newcomers and seasoned riders alike to engage with horses in a calm, educational setting where the focus is on wellness, trust, and the outdoors.

What sets Firefly Horse Co. apart is its dedication to blending horsemanship with personal growth and mindful outdoor connection. The Mini Riding Experience offers a hands-on introduction who wish to gain confidence around horses or try riding in a safe, supportive environment. Guests learn basic riding skills, horse handling, and grooming—all framed by Montana’s crisp mountain air and wide-open vistas.

Columbia Falls is a thriving gateway community just 15 minutes from Glacier National Park’s west entrance, offering easy access to some of America’s most celebrated alpine terrain. The area features unique geological features including ancient sedimentary rock formations and habitat teeming with elk, mule deer, and bald eagles. This makes the retreat an ideal stop not only for equestrian newcomers but outdoor enthusiasts seeking a fresh perspective on the Bitterroot ecosystem.

The ranch’s commitment to wellness permeates every lesson, promoting a deeper respect for these powerful animals and a chance to unplug from modern stress. Whether used as a stepping stone toward more ambitious backcountry rides or simply a memorable day reconnecting to the land in Montana, Firefly’s Mini Riding Lessons provide a rare blend of education, nature, and calm.

This is no ordinary horse lesson; it’s a meaningful outdoor experience tucked within the vast, raw beauty of Glacier Country.

About Firefly Horse Co. Wellness Retreat Center

Firefly Horse Co. Wellness Retreat Center in Columbia Falls, Montana offers equine-centered programs and farm experiences focused on connection, learning, and recreation.

The center provides a range of guided activities, including Equine-Assisted Learning sessions for children and teenagers that support emotional growth, boundary setting, and trauma processing through structured interactions with horses. Group Riding Lessons with Kate Paschen combine horsemanship, mindfulness, and practical horse care. F.E.E.L. Haul-In Lessons welcome riders who bring their personal horse for tailored instruction in Western and English disciplines; helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 and options are available onsite. Puppy Yoga & Farm Experience pairs gentle yoga stretching with time to socialize Golden Aussie Doodle puppies before they are adopted, followed by a farm tour. Horse Use Lease Drop-In offers partial lease access for riders to ride independently on a flexible schedule.

The center hosts a free Stress & Anxiety Reset 1.5-hour live course led by Julie Dauner, LCPC, with recordings available for registrants. Day programs include Horse & Farm Camp, Pony Parties, 1 Hour Riding Experiences with instructor support and scenic mountain views, and guided Animal Experience & Farm Tours featuring over 100 friendly animals. Programming emphasizes hands-on interaction, farm education, and a supportive environment for participants of varied ages and skill levels. Firefly Horse Co. operates from a scenic property in Columbia Falls and presents clear program details so guests can plan safe, memorable visits. Reservations are recommended for popular programs and seasonal events. Accessible booking information is available on their website.