SPECIAL SPIRIT PROGRAMS
WALK & TALK TRAIL RIDES
EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF HORSEBACK RIDING
WHILE BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND CONNECTION
Our Walk and Talk Trail Ride program is an enriching experience combining emotional growth and social connection while also teaching the basics of horsemanship and trail riding.
Riders will learn:
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How to safely mount and dismount a horse
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Proper grooming and ground-handling techniques
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The basics of how to ride a horse safely in a trail setting
More than just a riding experience, our program encourages meaningful conversations—whether with fellow riders, staff, or trained volunteers—helping participants grow build confidence and connections through shared experiences.
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​​​The Walk and Talk Trail Ride includes about 15-20 minutes of on the ground instruction and animal interaction, and about 20-30 minutes of riding either on a safe local trail or around our beautiful property on our Spirit Sensory Trail.
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The program is run by PATH Intl certified staff with the help from dedicated and trained volunteers.
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The minimum age for the program is 3 years old.
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There is no maximum age to participate in our programs. For the well being of our horses there is a weight limit of 185 lbs. This is subject to change.
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We accept riders with all disabilities, providing that PATH does not list the disability as a contraindication to riding, and a doctor signs a release indicating that, in his/her opinion, riding would be acceptable.
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All riders will be provided an ASTM-SEI approved helmet. Riders are recommended to wear long pants and must wear closed toe shoes or boots.
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Riders will use standard English or Western tack.
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Each rider, pending need, will be provided one teacher, a side-walker and/or lead line.
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Please be sure to arrive 5 minutes BEFORE your session start time.
Initial Evaluation - $75
Before beginning any of our equine-assisted programs, we require a one-time evaluation session. This session includes:
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A guided tour of the ranch
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An overview of our programs and services
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A discussion of individual needs and goals
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Assistance with required paperwork
Each student is assessed and evaluated for their unique needs and individualized lesson plans are devised and revised to support these goals.
Lesson Pricing
For more information and to schedule an evaluation, please contact us at (323) 661-3090 | info@specialspirit.org
"The people at Special Spirit truly are special.
I was amazed at their keen insight into the personalities and emotions
of my children based on how the kids interacted with the horses during their
EAP encounters. The activities were creative and helped my children
to be better aware of their emotions, actions and reactions,
and the affect these have on other people."
- SANDY, GAVIN & SANDY'S MOM