River Valley Riders is dedicated to creating a supportive community where people with special needs connect with horses and experience life-changing benefits. Our equine-assisted services include therapeutic horseback riding, carriage driving and hippotherapy. Our program helps participants gain self-confidence and self-esteem, build strength, improve balance and hand-eye coordination, while forming meaningful relationships.
For more information about 2024 lessons, please email us or call 651-439-2558.
Due to safety concerns for the rider/driver and following PATH Intl. recommendations, the minimum age to participate is 4 years old.
RVR will not be providing individually-assigned helmets for each rider. We will have a pool of helmets that will be shared by participants. As an alternative, riders may purchase their own helmet. All helmets are required to be ASTM/SEI approved for equestrian use and no more than 5 years old. NO BIKE HELMETS.
Suggestions for purchasing personal helmets.
St. Croix Saddlery
310 Stillwater Road
Willernie, MN 55090
651-426-0831
www.stcroixsaddlery.com
Their experienced staff will help ensure correct style and sizing. The Ovation Schooler style is a popular helmet with a wide range of sizes and colors. $69.99 and up. St. Croix Saddlery will provide a 10% discount upon request (limit to 1 item per month).
Fleet Farm
In the Equine section of the store, Fleet Farm has a limited selection of Troxel helmets. We recommend the Spirit or the Rebel because they are adjustable for the best fit. $64.95-$83.95. Based on our experience, we suggest avoiding the Sport or Liberty models.
Before going to store to try on, watch this video to help in fitting: https://youtu.be/tAuhwPRNHL8
For more information: https://www.troxelhelmets.com/pages/helmet-fitting
Document when you purchase/first use the helmet as is can be used for 5 years. Without documentation of purchase/first use, the manufacture date of the helmet (on a label inside the helmet) will be used.
RVR offers partial scholarships in an effort to make equine-assisted services more affordable for participants who would benefit from the program. Scholarships are based on financial need. For more information and the Scholarship Application.