Horseback Riding in Nova Scotia: Experience Fall Between the Ears of a Horse

2 days ago

4 min read

There is something about fall in Nova Scotia that makes you want to slow down and take it all in.

The crisp mornings. The changing leaves. The smell of the woods. The cooler air.

But we might be a little biased when we say one of the best ways to experience a Nova Scotia fall is between the ears of a horse.

At Shelby Ranch in Pictou County, Nova Scotia, our trail rides take you into the woods, fields and countryside of the ranch; with some pretty incredible views along the way.

And the best part?

You don't need any horseback riding experience to join us.

Horseback Riding for Beginners in Nova Scotia

One of the questions we hear all the time is:

"I've never ridden a horse before. Can I still come?"

Absolutely.

You do not need previous horseback riding experience to book a trail ride at Shelby Ranch.

Before heading onto the trail, our team will introduce you to your horse and help you get comfortable. Our guides are there to help throughout your experience, and if someone is especially nervous or needs a little extra assistance, we can lead their horse.

Our group trail rides are kept at a walk, making them a great way for beginners and families to experience horseback riding without feeling pressured to keep up with experienced riders.

Helmets are supplied.

All you really need to bring is your sense of adventure.

Yes — Kids Can Come Horseback Riding Too

Horseback riding doesn't have to be an adults-only adventure.

Children are welcome on our trail rides.

For our youngest riders, ages 4–7, their horse is ponied or led so they can enjoy the experience with some extra help.

Children ages 8 and older can steer their own horse, depending on their comfort and ability.

We have horses within our herd that are especially well suited to helping introduce young and first-time riders to horseback riding.

Watching a child head down the trail on horseback for the first time is one of those experiences that doesn't get old around here.

See Nova Scotia's Fall Colours From Horseback

Fall doesn't last nearly long enough in Nova Scotia.

For a few weeks, the greens across the ranch begin turning into shades of yellow, orange and red.

The air gets cooler.

The trails get quieter.

And suddenly an ordinary ride through the woods looks completely different.

This is one of our favourite times of year for trail riding at Shelby Ranch.

Instead of seeing the fall colours through a car window, you're travelling beneath them on horseback.

Our trails wind through the ranch property, and our newer trail gives riders a beautiful lookout from the top of the mountain.

It's the kind of place where you'll probably want to stop for a photo before heading back down the trail.

Choose Your Trail Ride

We offer several trail ride options depending on the experience you're looking for.

45-Minute Group Trail Ride — $55 + HST

Our 45-minute trail ride is a great introduction to horseback riding and a popular choice for families, younger children and first-time riders.

Group rides are walk-only, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the trail.

1.5-Hour Group Trail Ride — $75 + HST

Want a little more horse time?

Our 1.5-hour group trail ride gives you more time in the saddle and more time to explore the ranch trails.

These rides are also kept at a walk.

1.5-Hour Private Trail Ride — $110 + HST

For riders looking for a more personal experience, our private trail rides offer 1.5 hours with your guide.

Depending on rider ability and your guide's assessment of your control and comfort, there may be opportunities to jog or lope during a private ride.

What Should I Wear Horseback Riding?

You don't need to go shopping for cowboy boots before your visit.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and closed-toe footwear that will stay securely on your feet.

Fall temperatures in Nova Scotia can change quickly, so dressing in layers is usually a good idea.

We supply riding helmets.

And don't worry about dressing fancy.

This is a ranch.

A little horse hair is part of the experience.

Which Horse Will I Ride?

That's part of the fun.

Shelby Ranch is home to a large and diverse herd of horses, each with their own personality, experience and quirks.

Our team matches riders with horses based on factors such as riding experience, confidence, age and size.

You might meet one of our trusted trail horses such as Lexus, Slice, April, Maybull, Nellie or another member of the Shelby Ranch herd.

If you are 240 lbs or over, or 6 feet tall or taller, please make a note when booking. This allows our team to make sure we have an appropriate horse prepared for your ride.

Make a Day of Your Visit to Shelby Ranch

Your horse doesn't have to be the only animal you meet while you're here.

Depending on the day and what you book, there are plenty of other faces around the ranch.

You may spot Blondie, our Mini Highland cow, Emmanuel the emu, Danny the donkey, our alpacas, goats, pigs, bunnies, guinea pigs, mini horses and plenty of other ranch characters.

Shelby Ranch is more than somewhere to ride a horse.

We're building a place where families can spend time outside, meet animals, try something new and make memories together.