We provide a safe and friendly environment for students to get outside and connect with horses and each other.
Horseback riding lessons
No matter your level, we have a horseback riding program that fits your needs.
Strides Riding Academy offers English horseback riding lessons from beginner through experienced riders, ages five and up, building on a strong horsemanship foundation. We are located in Petaluma, and our riders come from all over the North Bay and San Francisco Bay Area.
Start riding.
For riders age five and up, we offer lessons seven days a week. Beginner riders start in 30-minute private lessons and move into one-hour group lessons once they are ready. Groups are arranged by age and ability at the instructor’s discretion.
Build on your progress.
We have a 10-level system that helps riders learn horsemanship and equitation in a methodical way and track progress as they advance. Riders are able to learn all of the pieces needed in order to safely and confidently handle a horse inside or out of the arena.
Take it to the next level.
For those looking to compete, Strides coaches middle school, high school and collegiate level competitive riding teams and hosts schooling shows on site every spring and summer. We offer the experience of a team in an otherwise individual sport through our Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) program.
Find out more about our Membership packages
Summer camp
Kids spend their summer with horses— riding, learning, and having fun outside.
Strides offers camps all summer long for young students, ages 6 to 12.
Our program provides a brief introduction to horse care and horsemanship. It is designed so your kids spend their summertime outdoors, being active and engaging in activities with other young individuals and animals at Strides.
We offer a variety of activities to keep students moving, engaged, active and away from their screens.
Equestrian team
We participate in Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA), so riders can compete, whether or not they own a horse.
Middle and High School Riders can join now to compete in IEA Competitions for next year.
We also coach Sonoma State University's Hunt Seat Team through Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA).
If you are interested in joining one of our teams, please contact us for more information.