We know you have lots of choices when it comes to choosing a barn for riding lessons. That’s why it’s our mission to offer a one of a kind horse experience you’ll never forget! From our gentle lesson horses, custom riding curriculum, to our friendly, and personable atmosphere-we want you to choose Willow Creek Farm!

 

 

 

 

 

Why choose Willow Creek Farm? 

Whether your goal is to ride for a season, a year, or a lifetime, Willow Creek Farm’s approach is designed to meet you where you are and grow alongside you. We believe that good horsemanship and strong riding fundamentals are essential—and universal across all disciplines. Our program focuses not only on developing skilled riders, but also on teaching the care, understanding, and respect that true horsemanship requires. By preserving the integrity of our horses and emphasizing thoughtful care, we help students grow into confident, well-rounded equestrians. Whether a rider dreams of trail riding, showing, leasing, or simply becoming the best partner for their horse, the foundation built at Willow Creek Farm will support them wherever their horsemanship journey leads.

 

How is Willow Creek Farm different from other riding programs?

We're more than just a program- we're a riding school! Guided by a leveled riding curriculum-levels 1 through 7, specifically.  The curriculum itself is one-of-a-kind — written and published by Willow Creek Farm’s owner, Chayna DeNicolo-Petrocci, a certified teacher. 

Drawing from her background in education, Chayna designed the program with multiple learning styles in mind, ensuring that every rider has the tools they need to succeed.  Each level comes with clear and outlined objectives so that riders can physically see the skills they're working toward, as well as the skills they’ve mastered. This structured approach ensures that learning is not only fun but also purposeful and rewarding! 

Our curriculum is designed with a whole-horseman approach to riding. In addition to weekly lessons, riders receive access to our Equine Education sessions (offered once a month) where our instructors will coach you through our Achievement Book- levels based equine content to give you the knowledge and skills needed to care for horses and understand every aspect of barn life. 

 

"Because at Willow Creek Farm we believe it is just as important if not more-to learn about horses in addition to riding them."  

 

 

The Lesson Experience 

Each lesson begins the moment you arrive at the barn. Riders start by meeting their lesson horse, grooming, and tacking up — learning why each step matters and how to do it correctly. This hands-on care helps students build trust, confidence, and respect for their equine partners while developing important horsemanship skills.

 

Once in the arena, lessons are tailored to the individual rider. Our instructors recognize that every student is different — some are naturally bold, while others are still finding their confidence. We take the time to ensure each rider masters foundational skills before progressing, creating a safe and encouraging environment for learning and growth.    If you’re new to horses, teaching you these fundamentals is our specialty. And if you come to us with previous experience, your instructor will meet you where you are and help you continue developing your skills as a thoughtful, capable rider.

 

 

 

Our lesson format depends on each rider and their goals. Most beginners start with private lessons to build strong fundamentals, rapport with their instructor, get to know our lesson horses, and 1-1 time for practicing barn routines.  As riders progress, they may move into semi-private or group lessons to practice skills like navigating a busy arena or building stamina with more ride time. Lesson type is always determined at the instructor’s discretion, and it’s not permanent — as riders grow, we adjust their placement to best support their development.

 

 

 

 

 

Enrollment

All of our enrollment options include far more than just weekly riding lessons. Each rider receives:

  • One weekly riding lesson (also options to ride two, or three times a week)

  • Monthly Equine Education sessions (learning about our horses is just as important—if not more important—than riding them)

  • Our one of a kind "Achievement Book" (over 100+ pages of material written by a certified teacher, and 30 year equine veteran)

  • Access to barn social events (engaging events that we plan for our adult & youth riders)

  • Curriculum-based feedback (clear guide to progress through our riding levels)

  • Achievement Ceremonies to celebrating the passing of levels, & milestones!

  • Participation in our annual Student Horse Show (see the Student Show Tab for information about this unforgettable event)

  • Eligibility for lease opportunities 

  • Volunteer opportunities

  • Special events & clinics throughout the year