Riding Lessons
Who?
On staff we have two full time lead riding instructors, Jennefer Lear and Dave Hysaw. With more than 50 years combined experience Jennefer and Dave offer unique insights to our Riding Academy program and top performance riders.
Where?
We teach riding lessons at our farm in Cannon Falls, Minnesota. A heated barn and arena allow us to teach day and night, six days a week. We are dedicated to providing a safe and encouraging environment that promotes self growth and proud, happy riders.
How?
We have a string of trustworthy lesson horses and challenging show horses - some of the best teachers in the business. We are most proud of our ability to build confidence in beginner and performance riders alike. Riding lessons are offered in a private and group setting.
Frequently asked questions.
At our Riding Academy, we specialize in Saddle Seat riding, teaching both novice and seasoned riders. Our goal is to teach the fundamentals of horsemanship and to build our riders’ confidence in a friendly environment. If you’re new to the English Saddle Seat riding world, we’re here to answer any questions you may have.
What clothing and equipment is required?
Riders completing their first string of riding lessons don’t need to purchase specialized equipment or clothing. We recommend that riders do, however, wear long pants and a hard soled shoe. Safety is top priority at Willow Falls Farm and we provide helmets onsite.
When the rider is ready, we recommend purchasing the following to further promote safety and functional riding: jodhpur pants (option one, option two, option three), riding boots (or these), riding helmet, riding gloves and stirrups for kids or adults.
Which horse will I ride?
Willow Falls Farm is home to ten school horses. The horses are a variety of breeds, including American Saddlebred, Morgan, and Hackney Pony. Each horse is carefully selected to meet the specific needs of each rider. We are pretty confident you will fall in love with them as much as we have.
Who will teach my lessons?
At Willow Falls Farm all riding lessons are taught by one of our two instructors, Jennefer Lear or Dave Hysaw.
Pricing.
Individual Lesson.
A single private lesson at Willow Falls Farm is $65.
Monthly lesson package.
Group Monthly:
$185 1 x per week (4 per month)
$350 2 x per week (8 per month)
$525 3 x per week (12 per month)
Private monthly:
$225 1 x per week (4 per month)
Our handbook.
Once you’re ready to take lessons or start training, our Willow Falls Farm handbook covers important details about our Riding Academy program, pricing, schedules, horse shows, riding attire, leasing and more. We will email the handbook to you when you’re set up for lessons.
“Words do not describe how thankful I am for finding Jen, Dave and Mya. The dedication, patience and care they show all their riders, horses and families is world class. Every time we walk into the barn we are walking into our second home. Brody was very shy when he started to ride, but had a love and passion for horses so wanted to try it out. He built an immediate bond with the barn and his confidence has skyrocketed! I can't imagine a better second family!”
— Jess