Boston Area's Best Spots For Family Horseback Riding

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While Boston simply does not have enough room left for the average family to own a horse, the city and surrounding towns have plenty of places to get riding lessons. Some of these places even offer wooded areas for riders of various skill levels to have a nice trot through the forest. They are perfect for families because even beginners can join in and get the skills they need to go riding as a group. There are few better ways to enjoy animals and get a day of leisurely exercise around Boston.

Located in the town for which Paul Revere made his famous and oft-misreported ride, Jelich Farms is a show and horseback riding establishment developed by Jennifer Jelich. As part of getting lessons at the farm, students are expected to learn grooming and tacking of the animals they ride. This is considered a serious riding school with regular attendance expected and lessons will sometimes take place inside of the barn. There is a wait list, so it is important to the farm's upkeep that students are responsible with their lesson time.

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Located just a few minutes south of Boston in the rural town of Hingham, Creek Crossing Farm is a family-owned establishment. With nine acres of land, riders who get lessons at the farm and the resident horses have plenty of space and terrain. Instructors specialize in hunter/jumper style and dressage for those who want to compete. Boarding is also available for families that want to stable their own horses.

Only about a 30-minute drive from Boston is the small town of Pembroke, MA. With plenty of farms and stables, horses are a common sight both in parks and even on the roads. Therefore, Hidden Hollow Farm could not be in a better location for horseback riding fans. From beginner to hunt and dressage, there is something for everyone. What makes this place even better than average is the trail riding and trail lessons available. Hidden Hollow also offers boarding and birthday parties.

Another stable located just a few minutes south of Boston, Canton Equestrian Center offers private lessons, group lessons, leasing and boarding. Because there is an indoor arena, students can take lessons all year. However, all riding is done within an arena, so students do not get multiple terrain experience. This is done with safety in mind, so parents can ensure their children are safe, but may opt for a different stable if trail riding is a goal.

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Less than an hour southwest of Boston is Cerulean Farm. This horse riding learning establishment has a lot to offer students. From hunter and jumper style to equitation, riders can learn just about everything here. Whether they bring and use their own horses or opt to use one of the farm's highly trained riding horses, they get a lesson that is personalized to their needs. Lessons happen either privately or in small groups to keep riders safe.