Are pony rides appropriate for toddlers?

Pony rides at Graves Mountain Farm are best suited for children aged 3 and up who can follow safety instructions.

Is prior riding experience required?

No experience is needed; all skill levels are welcome and riders are closely supervised.

Do you provide helmets and safety gear?

Yes, helmets and any required safety equipment are provided for every rider.

Can parents accompany their children during the ride?

Parents can walk alongside the ponies during the ride for added reassurance and support.

What animals can we see besides ponies?

Visitors can enjoy interacting with friendly goats, baby goats, calves, and sheep on the farm.

Is there a time limit on how long the pony ride lasts?

The pony ride experience typically lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, providing an engaging yet manageable duration.

Pony Rides Adventure at Graves Mountain Farm, Virginia | Horse | Farm

Discover the joy of pony rides at Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges, located in the scenic countryside of Syria, Virginia. This family-friendly experience invites children and beginners to enjoy a short yet memorable tour through a charming farm-yard filled with friendly animals such as goats, playful baby goats, calves, and sheep. Each rider is provided with a helmet to ensure safety throughout the adventure. The peaceful farm environment allows kids to connect with nature and animals in an engaging, hands-on way. Arriving early is recommended to prepare for the day and soak in the calm atmosphere of the stables before starting your ride. Beyond the pony rides, guests can explore the farm’s pastoral setting and learn about farm life, making it a perfect outdoor escape for families looking to create lasting memories. Whether you're a local or visiting from nearby cities, this experience offers a unique way to enjoy Virginia’s natural beauty while spending quality time with the little ones.

About Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges

Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges is a rural retreat located in Syria, Virginia. The property includes lodges and an 1800‑acre farm that hosts outdoor recreation, hands‑on workshops, and seasonal events led by local instructors.

Programming spans guided Blue Trail hikes, fly fishing lessons, partner dancing, yoga, painting and multiple craft workshops. Tim Lewis leads guided hikes across orchards, rivers and forested mountain trails, and provides fly‑fishing guidance on scenic ponds and rivers. Judy and Bobby Chiles teach partner dancing with Hoe‑down and country partner dancing sessions suitable for families and beginners. Jenn Mintz offers one‑hour yoga and meditation sessions appropriate for all ages and experience levels.

Creative workshops include wreath making with Sandra Kechter (three‑hour sessions crafting deco mesh, burlap or grapevine wreaths), soap making with Laura Goley of Swallowtail Ridge (including herbal tea and instruction in medicinal plant uses), and soapmaking with Jennifer Harris of Cornerstone Lavender (small‑batch, take‑home soap). Lou Messa leads a 5.5‑hour acrylic landscape workshop with personalized mentorship in a small group setting.

Many experiences provide supplies and equipment, and several explicitly welcome beginners—dance sessions note "no experience necessary," and workshops emphasize take‑home projects. Visitors choose from short classes (one to two hours) and longer creative sessions, enjoying practical instruction and outdoor exploration within the farm’s diverse natural landscape.

Reservations and detailed event listings are available through the farm’s public schedule for each offering. The location in Syria, Virginia provides access for travelers exploring the Blue Ridge region and central Shenandoah Valley.