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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Iceland
Intro to Iceland
 East and SouthHighland Tours Iceland Shorts Northern Tours West
Also see:
Hiking Trips
Horseback in:
Norway
Finland
Europe Overview
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Northern Exposure Lake Myvatn
Northern Tours
Iceland
The North of Iceland is best known for its great natural sights and beautifully varied landscape. Our tour leads from Saltvík Farm near Húsavík to the Lake Mývatn area, known for its volcanic features and countless numbers of wild breeding ducks. An optional whale watching tour concludes the circle of natural highlights on and off shore.
Our hosts on this tour are Bjarni Páll and his wife Elsa. Bjarni Páll or his friend Sævar will lead most of the riding tours. They both take special interest in geology so you can expect to learn a lot about the Icelandic nature! A visit to picturesque Goðafoss Waterfall is just one of the many highlights on your first day in the north. We ride along soft riding tracks ideal for riding at a “tölt”, the unique gait of the Icelandic horse. From fertile farm land we turn towards the Gæsafjöll Mountains and spend a night in a cabin at Theistareykir, a place with bubbling hot water and white clouds rising to the sky from the steam vents.
Through an area covered with cracks and fissures from earthquakes and volcanic activity the route leads towards Lake Mývatn where boiling mud pools and eerie lava formations remind you of the active volcanic energy hidden beneath. We can take a relaxing soak in an outdoor bathing facility with hot geothermal water in Jarðböð. The next riding days will take us from the black sand deserts of Hólssandur to the forested hillsides at Vatnshlíðarskógur. Our last riding day is over Hvammsheiði Heath and towards the shore, offering a terrific view of Skjálfandi Bay before we get head home to Saltvík Farm. After this amazing tour in the continually changing landscape, we can relax in outdoor hot tubs with a lovely view over to the ocean and the Kinnafjöll Mountain Range.
This tour was nominated one of the 10 best trails in the world by the Sunday Times!
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Camping Ride with vehicle support
Progressive Ride (no camping)
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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Keflavik Airport
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Airport:
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Keflavik Airport
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Transfer:
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Keflavik Airport
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
Max
18 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
Video
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Airport transfer and welcome meeting.
Accommodation: Reykjavík Hotel before and after the ride (including breakfast and welcome meal).
Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms during the ride, most meals, sleeping bag, saddle bag, raingear, safety helmet, 5 riding days - 170 km
| A | 2013 | 8 day trip, AP Tour number 3 | 8d / 7n | €1924 | $2500 |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer from Keflavic airport on Day 1 included
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Tour Dates for 2013
Check here for details and availability
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| A |
2013
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06/20
- 06/27
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP Tour number ...
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8
/18
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
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06/23
- 06/30
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP Tour number ...
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8
/18
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
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07/07
- 07/14
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP Tour number ...
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8
/18
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
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07/14
- 07/21
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP Tour number ...
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| A |
2013
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08/11
- 08/18
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP Tour number ...
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8
/18
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Sold Out
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| A |
2013
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08/18
- 08/25
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP Tour number ...
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8
/18
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
Meals in Rykjavik except breakfast. Optional (available at an extra charge): Whale Watching
At Húsavík harbour a boat is waiting to go out on a whale watching cruise. There is no better way to end a great tour than by sailing into the evening sun with, hopefully, whales swimming alongside. (Price per person ~Euro 60)
Sunday: Arrival in Iceland - Keflavík Airport - Reykjavík
Transfer from Keflavík Airport to a guesthouse in Reykjavík (transfer included). We invite you to a Welcome Meeting including traditional Icelandic soup. Receive details of your tour and meet your fellow riders.
Monday: Reykjavík - Akureyri - Goðafoss - Hvammsheiði - Saltvík Holiday Farm
Domestic Flight in the morning to Akureyri and transfer to Saltvík Farm. On the way we stop at majestic Goðafoss waterfall. At Saltvík, we start our ride after a short introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits. We cross the mountain plateau Hvammsheiði towards the Reykjahverfi area with its white steaming hot springs. You will enjoy a relaxing soak in a warm outdoor tub before dinner at Saltvík farm and overnight stay. (20 km)
Tuesday: Heiðabær - Theistareykir Mountain Cabin
Through the Geldingadalur valley and over the plateau Reykjaheiði heath our trail leads us to the geothermal area of Theistareykir. At one point we will practically cross over from one continental plate to another as we ride over the Mid-Atlantic ridge! It is a fascinating area with deep earthquake fissures, multi-coloured mountains and geothermal energy. With all this volcanic activity going on here, it is easy to understand that Iceland is still under “natural construction”! (40 km)
Wednesday: Theistareykir – Jarðböð – Hraunbrún Guesthouse
Enjoy today’s ride from the Theistareykir area past the mountains Gæsafjöll and Hrafnabjörg. We follow good riding tracks through the mountains, past lakes and through bushy vegetation. Enjoy the magnificent view over the Lake Mývatn area, surrounded by mighty volcanoes, before riding down towards our guesthouse Hraunbrún, located near the lake. Before dinner we relax and enjoy a nice hot soak in Jarðböð, an outdoor lagoon with geothermal water. (40 km)
Thursday: Laxárdalur – Reykjahverfi – Saltvík Holiday Farm
We start the day with an exciting sightseeing tour by bus. Visit Dimmuborgir, fantastic black lava formations with rich vegetation. Our next highlight is the geothermal area of Hverarönd with boiling mud pools and steam vents. We saddle up again and head out of the Mývatn area. Through a black sand desert we ride along colourful Laxárdalur valley with glittering salmon River Laxá in the middle. A true day of contrasts in the ever changing Icelandic nature. Overnight at Saltvík Farm for the last two nights. (40 km)
Friday: Reykjahverfi – Saltvík Holiday Farm
Today we cross Laxá river and ride alongside it for a while through beautiful countryside. Our ride continues over Hvammsheiði heath. We visit Æðarfossar waterfalls and finish our ride on the shore of Skjálfandi bay before returning to Saltvík Farm where the warm outdoor tub is waiting. (30 km)
Optional (available at an extra charge): Whale Watching
At Húsavík harbour a boat is waiting to go out on a whale watching cruise. There is no better way to end a great tour than by sailing into the evening sun with, hopefully, whales swimming alongside. (Price per person EURO 60 to pay locally)
Saturday: Saltvík – Akureyri – Reykjavík
In the morning return to Akureyri by bus and flight back to Reykjavík Domestic Airport with arrival at approx. 13:30. Last night in a guesthouse in Reykjavík.
Sunday: Departure from Iceland – Reykjavík – Keflavík Airport
Transfer by bus to Keflavík Airport in time for the flight back home. (not included)
Subject to change
Meeting:
Keflavik Airport
Airport:
Keflavik Airport
Transfer:
Keflavik Airport
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Tack:
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Icelandic
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Horses:
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Icelandic Horses
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Pace:
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Riders should be comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day. - 110 miles
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3.5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
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Max
18 riders
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A very special experience seldom to be experienced anywhere else but in Iceland - except maybe on some of our horse drives.
On this ride you will be riding each day with a free running herd of horses. You may switch horses from time to time.
A ride for Strong intermediate riders. Comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day.
The Icelandic Horse
The origin of the horse in Iceland is exactly the same as the arrival of the first settlers from Scandinavia in the ninth century. Clearly, the horse was the catalyst that allowed the settlement of Iceland to go forward and prosper. Since no other breed of horse has ever been imported to Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking Horse".
The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect.
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself. Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the special features that sets it apart form all other horses. These gaits are the fetgangur, the walk or step, the brokk or trot, the tölt, which is a faster type of walk, the skeið or the pace and the stökk, or gallop.
On large farm areas, perimeter fences keep in most of the horses, but many are also simply allowed to run free. This most naturally accounts for the spirited nature of the animal. All of them seem to adapt to the personality of their owner. It is essential to establish a trust between the Icelandic horse and the rider. Doing so literally guarantees a friend for life. The passion and spirit of the Icelandic horse is never broken only brought under control. As a result, the Icelandic pure-bred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherland. more
Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys a cool temperate ocean climate: cool in summer and fairly mild in winter. However, the weather can change quickly, and you should be prepared for the unexpected.
Average temperatures in Reykjavik:
January 35 F (1.6 C)
April 42 F (6 C)
July 56 F (13.3 C)
October 44 F (7 C)
You can find the weather forecast in English on www.vedur.is/english.
You should be ready for all kinds of weather as it can change very quickly. We provide you with good rain-clothes, a riding helmet and a sleeping bag. Also a saddle bag (where you can keep the picnic lunch, a small camera, extra pair of gloves etc.).
Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van. Bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases. Pack light because transport space is limited.
Normal street-clothes are not necessary except for your stay in Reykjavík before or after the tour.
We recommend not too much luggage on the tour and you can leave extra luggage at the guesthouse if you want to.
Cameras:
We recommend to bring a small camera that can be taken in a pocket, a waist/hip bag or in the saddle bag.
Large camera equipment we can not allow on the horses for security reasons. Tours are operated with a free running herd - at speed of tölt or trot for most of the day. We take breaks to relax the horses and then it is possible to take pictures. While on the horse taking pictures is rather difficult since the horses are constantly moving. Because of the herd instinct it is not possible to stop an individual horse, they all will follow each other.
You can leave larger Digital SLR with your luggage at the farm or put it in their luggage that will be transferred to the new accommodation.
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!) |
| Riding boots (Knee high riding boots - preferably rubber) |
| Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) |
| Warm jacket or overcoat |
| Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater |
| Warm socks and gloves, at least two pairs, scarf and a cap or hat. |
| Warm underwear, long if possible (protects also from chaffing). |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jogging suit or other comfortable cloths to wear in the huts |
| For the ladies – sports bra. |
| Bathing suit and flip flops |
| Slippers for the huts (Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a house) |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| A small camera to take with you when riding |
| Personal toiletries (soap etc.) |
| Small pillow |
| Towel |
| Ear plugs *some people snore* |
| Small flashlight, ie: headlamp |
| If interested, duty free alcohol at Iceland airport |
| Chocolate or glucose sweets for strenuous riding days |
| Insect repellent, gnat net head cover |
| Band aid and second skin plasters for chaffing |
| Sore cream (for the emergency) |
| Sun lotion for face and lips (with high sun factor) |
| Sunglasses |
| Song books |
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Two nights are at a 3-star hotel with private facilities in Reykjavík - one in the beginning and
one at the end of the tour.
One night in a remote mountain cabin is an adventure, while the other nights are spent at holiday farms or guesthouses in shared facilities (sleeping bag accommodations). Indoor WC, warm showers and/or hot pools are available at most locations.
First and last night are at the Fosshotel
Lind / Fosshotel Barón
Monday - Saltvík Holiday Farm
Tuesday - Mountain Cabin
Wednesday
– Hraunbrún Guesthouse
Thursday – Saltvík Holiday Farm
Friday
– Saltvík Holiday Farm
Meals
During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival. Meals in Reykjavik are not included (breakfast only).
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Tack:
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Icelandic
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|
Horses:
|
|
Icelandic Horses
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Riders should be comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day. - 110 miles
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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|
Riders:
|
|
Min
8 riders
|
Max
18 riders
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|
A very special experience seldom to be experienced anywhere else but in Iceland - except maybe on some of our horse drives.
On this ride you will be riding each day with a free running herd of horses. You may switch horses from time to time.
A ride for Strong intermediate riders. Comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day.
The Icelandic Horse
The origin of the horse in Iceland is exactly the same as the arrival of the first settlers from Scandinavia in the ninth century. Clearly, the horse was the catalyst that allowed the settlement of Iceland to go forward and prosper. Since no other breed of horse has ever been imported to Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking Horse".
The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect.
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself. Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the special features that sets it apart form all other horses. These gaits are the fetgangur, the walk or step, the brokk or trot, the tölt, which is a faster type of walk, the skeið or the pace and the stökk, or gallop.
On large farm areas, perimeter fences keep in most of the horses, but many are also simply allowed to run free. This most naturally accounts for the spirited nature of the animal. All of them seem to adapt to the personality of their owner. It is essential to establish a trust between the Icelandic horse and the rider. Doing so literally guarantees a friend for life. The passion and spirit of the Icelandic horse is never broken only brought under control. As a result, the Icelandic pure-bred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:
(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden who are only required to produce national identity cards issued by the competent authorities in their countries of origin.
Passport Note
Iceland is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals of referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
2. EU nationals staying longer than 90 days will need to apply for a residence permit from the directorate of immigration in Iceland.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
A stay in another Schengen-Zone country counts as the same as a stay in Iceland.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes/1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Northern Exposure Lake Myvatn
Tour Code:
IT-ICRT03
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,500.00
Dates :
June to Aug
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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