Forest Park Riding School

The Experience:

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Relaxing, supervised rides are taken around our beautiful property or to the near-by Stromlo Forest. These 1 hour rides can cater for both the experienced and beginner riders. Children are more than welcome to attend these rides, however for safety reasons we ask that children are 8 years of age or older. These rides are popular, and bookings are essential. For riders under 8, please see our little league page.  We also run a 45 minute group pony ride for the younger children.

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Our trail-rides are a great way to experience horse riding in a relaxing environment and view some of Canberra's best hidden views - with views of the mountains around Canberra and an insight into the lovely home of horses and other wildlife. Our riders often encounter kangaroos, rabbits, wallabies, wombats, native birds, horses and other animals along the way.  Rides are great to enjoy with your friends or come alone and join in with others. ​

 

A10 minute session is conducted at the beginning of the ride to help everyone on, go through safety and basic riding skills. Please note that this is included in the hours ride. ​For the comfort and safety of all riders and horses, be aware that all trail rides will be conducted primarily at the walk & trot. 

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We are also happy to cater for groups of riders such as school groups or work conferences and tailor your experience with us accordingly. Please contact us by phone on 62874888 or email at hughes81@bigpond.net.au to discuss group bookings.

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Times:​

 

Monday to Friday - At this time due to staffing we are not taking out regular week day trail rides.  In the school holiday period we take week day rides in the afternoon.

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Weekends - 9:30am, 10:45am, 12:00pm, 2:15pm, 3:30pm

 

Public Holidays - ​we are open various times throughout the day - often run to a weekend timetable.  A $5.00 surcharge per person applies on public holidays.
 

School Holidays- weekdays 3:45pm, open weekends as above

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Other times may be available upon request.
We also take group bookings for trail rides and try our best to find suitable times based on your needs.

For weekday trail rides we suggest that you book early such as with 2 weeks notice to secure a day and time that is ideal for you.

 

Price List:

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1 hour Trail Ride - Weekends  $70.00 each

 

1 hour Trail Ride - Weekdays when available

       *1 rider $110.00 each
      *2-3 riders $90.00 each
      *4+ riders $70.00 each

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​1/2 hour pony ride (when available, weekday only)
$35.00 each

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3/4 hour pony ride (at least 6 riders, max 7) 

$50.00 each

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Trail Ride Ticket (10 trail rides)
$680.00 each

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Payment Information:

 

Payment accepted through EFTPOS, cash or cheque by arrangement

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Please note that all cancellations for trail rides must be taken 24 hours before your scheduled ride. In the case that you do not give adequate notice you may not be entitled to a refund.
 

A Deposit will be required for bookings of three or more riders.

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Important Information:​

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All riders must provide a current Liability Waiver to be able to ride (for riders under 18: must be signed by a legal parent/guardian). These may be collected either at the Office or online, here.

 

Riders are to arrive to Forest Park 20-30 minutes early to check in with the office and be fitted with boots and helmets prior to the ride. This is important to ensure the ride leaves on time so you can obtain the full experience. Unfortunately we cannot accept riders who are late for their ride, so please ensure that you plan your trip and arrive with plenty of time to spare. We have seating areas and vending machines on our premises while you are waiting. If you are late to your ride time your ride will have to be rescheduled.

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For younger children who have never ridden before -  if you are concerned that your child may be fearful of the ride we recommend a private lesson to get them used to horses prior to joining a group trail ride. 

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Please note that when booking your ride that some times/rides will have beginner riders or children which will mean the ride will go at a slower pace. Please discuss with our staff if you have any concerns regarding this. 

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You are more than welcome to bring a camera along, however we ask you do not use it while riding. We are more than happy to take your photo with the horses at the end of the ride however. Please speak to the trail ride leader prior to the ride if you would like a photo taken. 

 

Note that due to safety concerns for both horse and rider, the maximum weight for riders is 100kg.

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As horse riding is dangerous sport, if you have any medical conditions or disabilities please discuss with our team prior to booking a ride with us. This information is asked to ensure that your condition will not impact your safety whilst participating in exercise on horseback. You may be asked to provide medical clearance or complete an assessment lesson as appropriate to ensure your safety before joining into a group trail ride or lesson.

 

Please note that our advertised riding times include mounting, safety gear check and dismounting in the hour's session.

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What to Wear:

 

We suggest riders wear sensible and comfortable clothing during their ride. Long comfortable pants such as leggings are recommended to wear on the horse, with socks to wear under your riding boots. A t-shirt with sleeves and collar is recommended. It is recommended that riders wear sunscreen, particularly in summer. Some riders also like to wear shatterproof sunglasses. In Autumn/Winter months Canberra can be quite cold - don't forget to bring a warm jacket.

We recommend riders bring a water bottle along to have before and after their ride.

Australian standard approved riding helmets and boots are available to borrow, included in your trail ride fee.