Where are you located?
We are located 5 minutes from downtown Truckee, 15 minutes from Northstar, 30 minutes from downtown Reno, and about 1.5 hours from Sacramento. Just 2 miles off of I-80, we are easy to get to from just about anywhere in Tahoe.
When are you open?
We are open April through November. In general, we offer lessons and trail rides between 9 and 5. In the fall and spring we are open for bit shorter hours and the summer hours are a bit longer.
Do you have a weight limit?
We try our best to accommodate everyone that is interested in horseback riding. However, please let us know if anyone in your group is over 220 pounds so we can make sure we have the correct horse ready. Safety is of the utmost importance for us, so please make sure you are physically able to ride a horse.
FYI - horses can only carry about 20% of their body weight - with the average horse weight of about 1200 pounds this means that 240 pounds is the max for most of our horses (that includes a 20 pound saddle hence the 220 standard weight threshold). That said, we do have some big boys who tip the scales at 1500+ pounds so they are ok with weights up to 300 pounds.
Do you have an age limit?
For trail rides the minimum age is 7 years old. On trail rides all riders get their own horse so the younger rides are generally led by the guide horse - yes they will go out on the trail with you!
No matter the age, all participants must be respectful of the staff and horses. Disrespectful riders are dangerous riders and this behavior is not tolerated.
Do you allow double riding?
No. Everyone must have their own horse.
What is your cancellation policy?
Camp must be cancelled by May 15th. All deposits are non-refundable. Trail rides must be cancelled 48 hours in advance for a full refund. Rides cancelled less than 24 hours will not be refunded.
How much should I tip the guides and instructors?
That is up to you! We pay our staff well, above industry standards, but the cost of doing business in California, especially in the equine industry, is very high so we really do appreciate any gratuity paid to our staff directly. Some folks tip 20% of the ride total, others $20 per guide, while some others really are generous and tip up to $100 per guide. High-fives and kind reviews are also appreciated.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your schedule ride time.
WHAT SHOULD WE WEAR?
For all equine activities, participants must wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and clothing appropriate for the weather. Loose or dangling items such as baggy clothing, purses, backpacks, or similar accessories are strongly discouraged, as they may create safety hazards around horses.
I have never ridden before, what do you RECOMMEND?
For first-time riders, a trail ride can be a wonderful way to experience being in the saddle and enjoying the outdoors on horseback. However, we do not recommend trail rides for very nervous adults or children.
If you are uncomfortable mounting a horse or feel unsure about riding, we strongly recommend starting with private lessons, where our instructors can help you build confidence and learn the basics.
For the safety of both riders and horses, our staff reserves the right to decline participation in a trail ride if a rider is not able to mount or ride with reasonable confidence.
I ride English, can i ride english on the trail?
Unfortunately, all trail rides must be taken in a western saddle. This is due to insurance stipulations.
Do you have helmets?
Yes, we offer helmets for the little ones and the adults.
I am interested in taking my little one to see the animals, is that ok?
Yes, visiting our critter camp is free of charge only if you have booked a trail ride. Please just make sure to check in with a staff, sign a release of liability, and get a helmet for the little one.
Is horseback riding dangerous?
While there is no simple answer, the honest answer is that horseback riding can involve risk, as it does with any outdoor or athletic activity involving animals. That said, we take safety very seriously in everything we do and have an excellent track record of safe camps, lessons, and trail rides. While accidents can happen, most are minor.
Riders who are very nervous, significantly overweight, or not physically comfortable with balance and movement may have a higher risk of losing balance or control while riding. Understanding and respecting these risks is an important part of staying safe around horses.
If you feel you may fall into this category, we strongly recommend starting with private lessons, where our instructors can help you build confidence, balance, and comfort with horses before joining other riding activities.
Do I have to sign a waiver of liability before riding?
Yes, all participants must sign a current release of liability.
Can I bring a water bottle or a backpack?
Even the lightest of backpacks can affect your balance and restrict shoulder movement, which are very important while riding. In addition, many packs have straps that can get snagged on the trail or the saddle which poses a safety risk. As for the water bottle, as long as riders hydrate before and after the ride, it is better not to bring a water bottle to rides under 2 hours.
For our rides 2 hours and over, the wranglers will have saddle bags and are more than happy to carry snacks, water and anything else you might need.
Should I bring my camera?
Again, anything bulky is generally not a good idea while riding. Cell phones in your front pocket are generally the way to go. Our wranglers are more than happy to take photos of you out on the trail and if you have an iPhone, they can airdrop photos to you. We strongly discourage texting while riding, as riders should always be aware of their surroundings and holding onto their reins.
Can I bring my Dog?
For the safety of our horses, riders, and guests, dogs are not permitted on the property. Horses can react unpredictably to dogs, which may create dangerous situations.
Piping Rock Equestrian does have a resident working barn dog who is trained to be around horses and is part of daily operations.
Thank you for helping us keep the ranch safe.