Chamounix Equestrian Center

The Experience

Swing your foot into the stirrup and learn how to ride in a working equestrian stable located deep in the heart of beautiful Fairmount Park. You’ll be assigned any one of the center’s 36 horses and taught by a skilled instructor.

Riding lessons are Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from early spring through late fall. Group lessons are available. Private lessons, which can be arranged by appointment, are a favorite option for visiting equestrians.

You’ll learn all the aspects of good horsemanship, which means feeding and mucking out stalls in addition to sitting in the saddle, so be prepared to handle a pitchfork!

The innovative educational program, Work to Ride, offers summer camp for kids as well as lessons.

Equine professionals are scheduled and participants have the opportunity for observation with question and answer sessions. Certificates of merit are awarded through each successful stage of the program.

Summer camp is for all horse-loving children between the ages of five and 15 who want to learn about horses and how to ride. Campers learn about safety, teamwork, responsibility, animal husbandry, barn management, equine nutrition and animal behavior. On Fridays, parents are invited to watch their kids participate in games on horseback. Full and half day programs are available for riders at all levels.

Come Prepared

There is a fee for lessons. Registration for lessons begins the first of every month and group lessons are limited to no more than six riders. Long pants and boots with heels are recommended.

Don’t Miss

Polo in the Park, the annual fundraiser at Belmont and Edgley roads in West Fairmount Park, takes place the second Sunday in June.

Support Work to Ride

Work to Ride is a tremendously successful nonprofit program that aids disadvantaged youth, ages 7 to 18, through constructive activities centered on horseback riding. You can find more information about volunteer opportunities and donations on their website.