Here at Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges, our stables are cared for by "Circle H Equine" with Joey, Casey, Devon & Preston as the trainers, trail ride leaders and mentors of young riders.
1. Horseback Trail rides - 90 minute ride. Allows for plenty of time to get acquainted with your horse before starting on the trails
2. Pony rides, lead line
3. Stalls in the Campground
4. Self guided horse treks on 1800 acres plus Shenandoah National Park
5. Special Trail Riders Get-together Weekends of Riding and Community
6. Horsemanship Development Package
7. Special Savings for Riders Wanting More Horse Time
30% Savings with 10 Ride Purchase > See Here
Annual Riding Membership - with some restrictions: $660 > See Here
Who Are We?
With our partners, " Circle H Equine" at Graves Mountain Farm we ride western style through our 1800 acres and into the Shenandoah National Park - over 100 miles of trails.
How to find us?
In the Graves Mountain Farmyard at 80 Apple Tree Lane, Syria VA 22743. On our "Main Street" - Rt 670, drive past the Market on the right, the Main Lodge drive on the left and 200 yards ahead on the right is Apple Tree Lane - framed by two stone pillars.
You will see the silo on the right - drive toward it, taking the right drive to the stables and park anywhere by the stables.
Horseback Rides in the Blue Ridge and into Shenandoah National Park are for beginners to experts with our stable - Circle H Equine.
Joey, Casey, and Preston will guide you onto the horse and take you out for the horseback ride you have chosen.
What are the rides like?
One hour and a half trail rides are for all riders.
You will cross streams, open fields, orchards, and woodlands. You will be walking on the general rides. The horses are especially chosen to be careful and consistent. There are a maximum of eight riders.
How Long?
1 Hour and a half
Closed Monday
The horses have a pasture day on Mondays.
Cost?
$75
Arrive 15-30 Minutes Early
Please arrive early to fill out waivers and fit your helmets.
How to find us?
In the Graves Mountain Farm-yard at 80 Apple Tree Lane, Syria VA 22743. On our "Main Street" - Rt 670, drive past the Market on the right, the Main Lodge drive on the left and 200 yards ahead on the right is Apple Tree Lane - framed by two stone pillars.
You will see the silo on the right - drive toward it, taking the right drive to the stables and park anywhere by the stables.
How to reserve a ride?
Reserve on line - following the booking button below. Minimum of eight years old and under 300 lbs.
- or email info@gravesmountain.com
- or call 540 923 423
Annual Riding Membership
Unlimited Horsemanship and Horse Immersion
Become a Part of the Stables and the Trail Riders of Graves Mountain
Ride Tuesday to Friday throughout the year and Tuesday to Sunday December - March.
$660 for one year
Buy using the button link above, please.
You will receive a member code to use when booking all trail rides and the system will keep track for you and us.
Ride - Ride - Dine - Stay
Horsemanship, riding skills - beginner to expert
1, 2, 3, and 4 Day Programs
All are mid-week - Tuesday through Friday PM
Per day fee - $235
Build your own program - 1 to 4 Days
Detailed Questions? - Circle H Equine please:
Casey - circlehequinesales@gmail.com | Cell - 540 718 4225
Day 1 - Start Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - or Friday for just one day
Orientation - 9:30 - 12:00
Who is a horse?
Who is your horse?
How does the horse see the world?
What are her fears, her pleasures, her comforts.
What will scare a horse, your horse - how to stay on.
How to keep control
Use of weight and balance - Head, neck, eyes, core, seat, voice, intention, affection.
What creates the link between you and your horse?
How to ride Western.
Saddle seat, the leg- thighs, calves, stirrups,
Bridle, bits, reins
Gates and how to sit and stay with your horse
Lunch break - at the Market Deli & Tackle
1:00 3:30 PM
- curry and tack-up, out on the trails with your coach. Return, walk out, wash down, feed,
Massage?
- book with our Guest Care Team - email - info@gravesmountain.com
Day 2 - Start Wednesday or Thursday
9:30 - 12:00. Horse curry, tack up.
Ring work, balance, thought, head. Eyes, intention
Moving through gates, stops, figure eights.
Leading your horse, Mounts, dismounts
Trail and field etiquette.
Lunch break - at the Market Deli & Tackle
1:00 3:30 PM Trail riding with coach.
Day 3 - same as Day 2 - crafted for your level.
Start Tues, Weds
Day 4 - same as Day 2 - crafted for your level.
Pony Rides on Lead Line
These will be in the paddock of the stables, in the farm-yard.
The ride will be a short tour around the farm-yard.
And in the farm-yard are goats, baby goats, calves, ponies, and sheep.
Price: $10
In addition to booking on line, you can always call or email.
- email info@gravesmountain.com
- call 540 923 4231
Basic Stalls for Horse Camping at Graves Mountain Farm Campground
The Stalls are reserved by single or multiple overnights via the phrase - "LESSON".
Of course you camp with your horse using hot wire and other portable fencing.
Reserve Horse Camping for people and your horse/horses here, or pay in the Campground by honor box or direct collection on Fri/Sat.
How to reserve a BASIC STALL?
Reserve on line - following the booking button below. Minimum of eight years old and under 300 lbs.
- or email info@gravesmountain.com
- or call 540 923 4231
FAQs about Riding Experience
Helmets are required for all riders.
Regardless of experience, all rides are "walk only".
Each rider must be 8 years old or older and 54 inches tall.
Maximum weight limit for riders is 300 pounds.
About the Children and Safety
We want children to have an enjoyable experience. Even though the minimum age is 8 years old and 54 inches tall, every rider must be able to demonstrate the ability to safely control their horse and follow instruction. If a child does not follow instruction or the guides are concerned for safety, the child will be returned to the stable and there will be no refund or exception. Children under 14 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Western tack is used.
What about the horses? We do not knowingly keep any horse that we feel could cause a riding problem. Under the correct conditions all horses can be dangerous. All horses are properly vaccinated, vetted and cared for. We do not tolerate any abuse to our horses.
Who are our guides? Guides are carefully selected, screened, and trained professionals. They are accomplished equestrians with special talents to assist riders of any level to have a great riding experience. If you enjoy your ride, feel free to tip your guides.
Who is in charge? Graves Mountain Stables are contracted to Circle H Equine, Joey, Casey & Preston Haynes of Madison County! Joey, Casey & Preston have been providing the Petting Zoo for our Apple Harvest Festivals for a number of years.
Where are the Sables Located? The stables are located across the road from the Lodge on the Graves Mountain Farm. Turn left from the Lodge driveway and then turn right on Apple Tree Lane. Bear right after the large barn with the white silo.
What time should we arrive? Unless delayed for safety reasons, the rides go out as scheduled. Therefore, please arrive at the Graves Mountain Lodge office 30 minutes before your ride. There are no refunds if you miss your ride. For a full refund give at least a 24-hour cancellation notice.
What about the weather? We reserve the right to cancel any ride and issue a refund due to unsafe weather conditions including hot weather. Please keep in mind, even though the sun may be shining, previous rains may have created muddy trails or high water. Safety is always our primary concern. If conditions are safe, we may still ride in light rain. Check with the Lodge or Stables to make sure your ride is still scheduled or has been canceled.
What should I wear? Long pants and closed toe shoe with a heel are standard. During hot weather, light cotton shirts and pants are encouraged. Cool weather, always bring a jacket. The weather can be a little unpredictable on certain days.
What if I am inexperienced or nervous? We suggest you come early to meet the guides and discuss your concerns with them. This will also give you a chance to get to know your horse.
Where will the ride take me? With over 100 miles of scenic trails to pick and choose in the Shenandoah National Park and on private land, riders are sure to find excitement on the trail, as well as breathtaking vistas along the way. Our rides are designed to showcase Graves Mountain, and of course the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. You will ride beside or cross through natural trout streams, ride graded mountain trails, open fields and woodlands.
Can I take pictures on the ride? You are welcome to take pictures during your ride. Your guide can tell you where some of the prettiest spots for picture taking will be.
What if I have to cancel? We have a 24 hour minimum cancellation policy in place. We ask that you secure your ride by credit card in advance. No refunds - if less than 24 hours notice is given.
Release and Liability- it is mandatory that all riders understand and sign a complete liability release. Per the code of Virginia 3.1-796.132 and 3.1-796.133, Horse professionals are exempt from suit and riders ride at their own risk. Copies of the code are available in the stable office.
