Stepping Stone Stables & Special Events
Stepping Stone Ranch, a family built business since 1957
Riding Program for Children and Adults
40 years of experience
Our head instructor/barn owner Ms. Heidi Waldron has been coaching riders since 1975. Her life-long equestrian career provides our lesson clients with the breadth of knowledge needed to become great riders. She spent many years in the hunter/jumper ring as a competitive young rider and went on to manage facilities and riding programs throughout her adult life. Heidi has been an instructor her entire professional career and is a mentor for many. With an emphasis in balance seat, she has laid the foundation for her students to excel in whatever direction they choose. Heidi's unwavering commitment to safety has provided her numerous awards and accolades in the horse industry.
NOTICE: 2023 our lesson program is accepting new weekday students. Our weekend schedule is full. Please email if you would like to be added to our waiting list.
Lessons are made by appointment and are scheduled regularly. Minimum Age: 7 years old. Prices are as followed:
Private Lessons
1 and 1/2 Hour Private: $90.00
1 Hour Private: $55.00
1/2 Hour Private: $45.00
Group Lessons 2+ Riders
1 and 1/2 Hour: $85.00
1 Hour : $50.00
1/2 Hour : $40.00
The Safety Award was given to us by The North American Horsemen's Association for an Outstanding Saftety Record and Safety Management for 2006 and 2007.
Riding Styles
Whatever type of riding you aspire to, we cannot hope for much success without first learning how to utilize the proper aids to achieve a balanced, correct position. Fundamentals are taught in both English and Western disciplines with the intricacies of each style developing as the riding student improves.
Just looking to explore the special bond between horse and rider? Enjoy a relaxing trail ride lesson? We can help.
Have your own horse? Bring him with you! We offer a specialized lesson/training program for riders and their horses- evaluate your issues, fears, and troubleshoot to achieve a balanced, understood, safe, and trusting relationship with your horse.
Educational Clinics & Special Rides
We host horsemanship clinics/group rides throughout the year. We can also offer our facility for special guest clinicians on an evaluated basis. Clinic/Ride prices will vary but are always very affordable for both auditors or guest riders! We will post date's when they become available.
Would you like to request a clinic topic? We would love to hear from you! Please send us your ideas for consideration!
Traveling with your horse? We also offer HORSEMAN'S GUEST CAMPING click for more information.
Summer camps 2023
Just for kids? NO WAY! We offer summer camps for both youth and adults.
FOR SAFETY, SESSIONS ARE LIMITED TO 5 PARTICIPANTS.
Time: 9:30am-3:00 PM
(late pick up 4:00pm $30.00 fee)
Price: $395.00 per person.
(multi-child, $20.00 off second child)
All participants please bring a mask for use.
Have your own horse? Bring them with you. (email or call with questions.)
*These dates are subject to change or combine. If changes occur for a session you are already registered for, we will contact you asap.
New* As of 2023, kids camp will now include hiking and be structured with outdoor recreation in mind in addition to horse interaction.
June 26-29 Adult Session Clinic
Come all 5 days or just a few - If you own your own horse, considering purchase, or just want to learn more, this session will focus on rider concerns and training techniques. Topics such as transitions, versatility, equitation and more are all customized for the entire session. How to be a stronger rider, spooking, pair riding and more.. This camp is designed around the curriculum of the riders who attend. Time will be spent out on the trails, as well as in the arena. Riding techniques/training, terminology, nutrition, first aid and much more. We encourage both English and Western disciplines. Weather you are competitive or just a leisurely rider, all are welcome.
July 10-14 KIDS CAMP
Learn safety and horse care as well as riding lessons and games. Safety and horsemanship for all aspects of equine based activities!
July 24-28 INSTRUCTORS CLINIC - NEW*
This brand new training session is developed for individuals with an interest in perusing an equine career as barn managers and riding instructors. After much consideration, this is a course that will address many topics with a full curriculum to help new instructors develop a solid foundation. Please email with any questions.
Aug 7-11 KIDS CAMP
Learn safety and horse care as well as riding lessons and games. Safety and horsemanship for all aspects of equine based activities!
Aug 14-18 INTERMEDIATE [must be able to trot independently...)
Have fun learning water crossing, obstacles, how to ride safe in large groups, horse care, and much more. (Intermediate level, You must be able to trot your horse to take this camp, evaluation ride IS necessary).
Aug 21-25 ADULT Session Clinic
Come all 5 days or just a few - For Adults that fall in this category, perhaps you own your own horse, or just want to learn more, this session will focus on rider concerns and training techniques. Topics such as transitions, and perfecting the versatility course are all customized for the entire session. How to be a stronger rider, spooking, bolting, pair riding and more.. This camp is designed around the curriculum of the riders who attend. Time will be spent out on the trails, as well as in the arena. Riding techniques/training, nutrition first aid and more. We encourage both English and Western disciplines. Weather you are competitive or just a leisurely rider, all are welcome.
Please note, parent/legal guardian must accompany minors to sign liability forms on the first day.
2022 Stress Relief Program
Limited spots available for this brand new program.
Perfect for adults seeking alternative outdoor activates to practice stress management and horse guided mindfulness training. This program is non-riding focused, instead participants will utilize effective techniques for their own well-being under the guidance of a professional Mental Heath and Equine Instructor.
SECOND SESSION DATE : TBD. Spots fill fast.
To Register for this class, please call or email us directly.
Once accepted, you will be provided with a program information syllabus.
Living life more mindfully can help you to handle stress when it arises, and also experience life more fully. Mindfulness teaches you ways of being gently aware of the world around you, and your reactions to it, so you can step out of the chaos and make better life choices. Mindfulness training is thought to improve both physical and mental health, enhance concentration , improve leadership skills and supports many attitudes that contribute to a more joyful life. Horses it seems, are the perfect partners to teach the skills needed to live mindfully in the present moment.
Come spend some time with the beautiful horses of Stepping Stone Ranch and discover Mindfulness in a calm and relaxed environment. Workshops will utilize a combination of didactic and experiential learning in the serene surroundings of West Greenwich Rhode Island.
All courses are co-taught by Equine Expert Heidi Waldron and
Mindfulness Teacher Cindy Kolesinskas, a masters level behavioral health clinician.
Testimonials
October 30, 2020 Feedback from the new Stress Relief Program 2020
"Thank you so much for the seminar. I truly enjoyed connecting with my horse and look forward to another opportunity. I feel very fortunate to have been in the company of two professional horsewomen and am in awe of all your knowledge pertaining to these beautiful creatures. I felt the women in attendance were quite cohesive and easily exchanged personal motives for participating. Please keep me informed of the next seminar."
-Joan
August 18, 2019
" I spent 1 week at the Adult Camp at Stepping Stone Ranch. I would highly recommend this camp to anyone. I came as a reluctant beginner and now feel like a more comfortable, confident rider. It was non-stop learning on and off the horse. The instructor gives continuous feedback in an extremely safe environment. I hope they offer some weekend camps, but I will definitely be back next year without hesitation!"
-Denise
June 30, 2019
"Within the last couple of years I have returned to horseback riding. Growing up I never had formal training/lessons. Quickly reliazed I need them. I traveled from Massachusetts to Rhode Island. Attended Stepping Stone Ranch Adult Beginner Camp. Heidi, Owner/Trainer exceeded all of my expectations. It was obvious Heidi wanted to share her wealth of knowledge. She did! The camp was relaxed and fun. As she broke down the steps of horseback riding, care, nutrition and safety. Even explained the horse behavior within a herd. How it relates to our relationship with our own horse. So much more! We we're lucky to have one her daughter speak with us. Shared tips on what to look for if you purchase a horse of your own. Highly recommend Stepping Stone Ranch.
Looking forward to their Beginner-Intermidate Camp.
Heidi, Thank you."
-Nancy
July 27th, 2014
Dear Stepping Stone Ranch,
On a recent trip to Stepping Stone Ranch our youth group had the time of their lives!
It was a very hands on experience where our kids learned proper safety, grooming and riding techniques in a very fun, supportive atmosphere.
The staff on the ranch are extremely knowledgeable, dedicated and patient in helping others learn all about horses and riding techniques. Stepping Stone Ranch offers a very unique experience in a very fun and safe setting!"
Brian Dunn, Program Coordinator
Westwood YMCA