What Your Child's First Few Months at Strides Actually Look Like
From the first nervous hello to a horse, to the first time she trots on her own. Here's a real look at what the first few months at Strides actually look like.
Your Kid Wants to Ride Horses. Here's What Actually Happens Next.
Your kid didn't ask for a phase. They asked for horses. Here's what that actually looks like once you say yes.
The Silent Skill Every Great Leader Has (Horses Teach It First)
The best leaders aren't just good at talking. They're good at noticing: reading a room, adjusting in real time, knowing when to push and when to ease off. Horses teach that skill early. Here's why it sticks.
Communication 101, Taught by a 1,000-Pound Teacher
A horse doesn't care what a rider says. It responds to what they're actually communicating, tone, posture, energy, and all. That's a lesson most riders don't get anywhere else.
Kids Learn to Read a Room Because They First Learned to Read a Horse
Long before kids can explain what empathy or leadership means, horses are already teaching them. Here's how reading a 1,000-pound animal builds the exact skill kids need to read a room.
Adults Ride Too: Why Summer Is the Season Grown-Ups Finally Try Lessons
You've been saying someday for years. Here's why summer is when adults actually stop putting off horseback riding lessons and start.
The Santa Rosa Experience That Stays With You Long After You Hand Back the Reins
Santa Rosa has no shortage of things to do outdoors. But few experiences stay with people the way horseback riding does — and at Strides Riding Academy, that's exactly the point.
The Drive Out to the Barn
Families from Windsor and Santa Rosa drive out to Strides Riding Academy every week for more than horseback riding lessons. Tucked between the two towns in Fulton, the barn offers kids and adults a chance to slow down, connect with horses, and leave the noise of the day behind — even if just for an hour.
From Lesson to Event: Preparing Your Horse and Yourself
Preparing for your first horse show or event? Discover how lessons at Strides Riding Academy teach both you and your horse the skills, confidence, and trust to shine.
Family-Friendly Horse Activities Near Santa Rosa
From beginner riding lessons to family events, Strides Riding Academy in Santa Rosa offers horse activities that everyone can enjoy. Learn, play, and bond with horses together!
From Beginner Lessons to Camps to Horse Leasing: Growing as an Equestrian at Strides Riding Academy in Sonoma County
Discover how riders grow from beginner lessons to horse camps and leasing programs at Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma. Serving Sonoma County and the North Bay with equestrian programs for all ages.
The Summer Camp in Sonoma County Parents Wish They Found Sooner
Some kids just need something different. Discover why families across Sonoma County return to Strides Riding Academy’s summer camp year after year — and why spots for 2026 are already limited.
How Horseback Riding Helps Entrepreneur Parents Raise Confident, Resilient, Screen-Free Kids
Entrepreneur parents want their kids to grow confident, capable, and less tied to screens—but busy schedules make it tough to create those meaningful experiences. That’s why so many families are turning to horseback riding at Strides Riding Academy. Riding builds real confidence, leadership, resilience, and responsibility in a way no app or classroom can match. It’s the screen-free activity kids genuinely love—and one that helps them grow into strong, grounded individuals who can thrive in a fast-paced world.
November Newsletter
November was full of good rides, new faces, and exciting milestones at Strides Riding Academy. From fall horse shows and welcoming Augie to the barn, to launching Strides Legacy and opening Summer Camp 2026 registration, here’s a look at everything that made this month so special.
Looking for Unique Things to Do in Petaluma? Try a Horseback Riding Experience That Stands Out
Looking for unique things to do in Petaluma? Discover why a beginner-friendly horseback riding experience at Strides Riding Academy stands out as one of the most memorable, confidence-building, and unexpectedly fun activities in Sonoma County.
Leave Only Hoofprints: A Greener Way to Explore the Outdoors
Looking for an eco-friendly travel experience close to home? At Strides Riding Academy, every ride is a mindful way to connect with nature and rediscover balance. With wide open arenas, mountain views, and soft sunsets, horseback riding offers a peaceful outdoor escape that leaves only hoofprints behind.
Looking for Unique Birthday Party Ideas? Try a Horseback Riding Gift Experience
Looking for unique birthday party ideas? Surprise someone with a horseback riding gift experience at Strides Riding Academy. Perfect for kids and adults, our lessons inspire confidence, connection, and joy in the saddle. Contact us to create a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind birthday gift experience in Petaluma or Santa Rosa today.
Why Horseback Riding Is One of the Best Stress Relief Activities You’re Not Trying Yet
Looking for stress relief activities in Sonoma County? Discover how horseback riding at Strides Riding Academy helps you unwind, reconnect, and find calm. From mindful motion to time outdoors with horses, our Petaluma and Santa Rosa barns offer a peaceful way to de-stress while building confidence and joy.
SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER
September at Strides was filled with new beginnings and barn fun! From our Santa Rosa grand opening and Mini Horse Camp to welcoming new instructors and ponies, it was a month of growth and excitement for riders of all ages. Catch up on the highlights and what’s ahead this fall!
Tired of the Gym? Try This Outdoor Workout You’ll Actually Love
Bored of the gym? Step outside and discover a workout that feels like fun. At Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma and Santa Rosa, beginners learn to ride safely while improving strength, balance, and confidence. Perfect for adults, kids, and families ready to make fitness enjoyable again.