Beginners

These lessons are designed for riders who are new to the horse world or have less than six months of experience. We focus on building a solid foundation for your riding career. You’ll be guided through the process of catching, grooming, and tacking your horse, with full assistance provided as you familiarize yourself with these essential skills. Our professionals will introduce you to basic horsemanship, equine behavior, and safety. The main aim is not just to learn how to ride, but also to understand and respect these magnificent animals.

Intermediate

Our intermediate lessons are meant for riders who have been in the saddle for a year or more. You’ll be expected to independently catch, grooming, and tacking your horse. This stage will test your understanding of the horse’s needs, and you should be able to warm up your horse with little to no direction. At this level, you’ll perfect your ability to comfortably sit at walk and trot gaits, and we will begin introducing the canter. You will also be well-versed in the vast majority of saddle and horse parts, enhancing your overall understanding and connection with your equine partner.

At Crossroads Ranch, the Mustang taming program is designed to transform wild Mustangs into composed, cooperative partners. The process begins with gentle methods to gain the trust of the Mustangs, ensuring they can be safely caught and led. Jeneva works meticulously to train each Mustang to stand quietly for the farrier, and to load into a stock trailer with ease and calmness. The Mustangs are also accustomed to being brushed and receiving fly spray treatments, which are essential for their comfort and health.

For owners looking to further their Mustang’s training, Crossroads Ranch offers advanced sessions including saddle training. This prepares the Mustang for various riding disciplines, with an emphasis on calmly navigating new environments. To enhance their readiness, mustangs are gradually introduced to these environments through ponying, where they learn to adapt to different terrains and scenarios under the guidance of a trained lead horse. This comprehensive program ensures that each mustang is not only approachable and manageable but also primed for more specialized training, depending on their future roles.

The Boots & Hooves program at Crossroads Ranch offers a unique therapeutic experience for veterans, blending equine training with personal healing. Participants engage directly with once wild mustangs, helping to train and tame these majestic animals under expert guidance. This hands-on approach not only aids in the rehabilitation of the mustangs, preparing them for adoption, but also provides the veterans with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. The interaction between veterans and horses creates a profound connection, promoting emotional recovery and fostering mutual respect and understanding. Through Boots & Hooves, veterans rediscover their strengths and skills in a supportive, tranquil environment, forming lasting bonds with the horses they help transform.