Horseback riding was a popular choice among my friends growing up near King City, where equestrian facilities are almost as ubiquitous as Tim Hortons. Now living in Toronto, I often think back to my days as a young rider, fondly remembering the smell of the stable and the clip clop of hooves on pavement.
For my fellow horse-loving urban-dwellers, here's a list of places to purchase gear and saddle up in and around Toronto.
GEAR
Filly in the City (184 Davenport Rd.)
This equestrian lifestyle boutique on Davenport near Avenue Road boasts a generous supply of gear for both horse and rider. Carrying everything from breeches to body butter, Filly in the City caters to well-rounded riders seeking to combine function with style.
Greenhawk Harness and Equestrian Supplies (1950 Avenue Rd.)
An Avenue Road institution since 1985, Greenhawk has expanded to become the largest equine supplier in Canada, boasting locations across the country and a vibrant online catalogue. The store has an array of products for horses and their humans, and is a go-to destination for anyone in the market for show wear.
Baker's Harness and Saddlery (11181 Woodbine Ave.)
A short jaunt north of the city, Baker's is easily accessible from the 404, and is a one-stop-shop for tack, apparel, and custom gear. In business since 1919, Baker's Harness and Saddlery has withstood the test of time, proving that quality products never go out of style. The shop also does repairs on existing tack, ensuring you've got a leg up in the saddle for years to come.
Pony Up Equestrian (6 Mosley St.)
Featuring a wide variety of apparel, tack, and giftware, Aurora's Pony Up caters to those in the first stages of their equine love-affair with their colourful shirts, bright breeches, and pint-sized boots. For those already head-over-haunches, the shop features a well-stocked selection of show apparel, helmets, gloves, accessories, and more.
POPULAR HORSEBACK RIDING LOCATIONS
Sunnybrook Stables (1132 Leslie St.)
Located in the urban oasis that is Sunnybrook Park, these stables offer English riding instruction for both children and adults. Lessons range from $120 to $150 for a 50-minute private lesson, and from $112 to $85 for a semi-private or group lesson of the same length. Sunnybrook Stables also offer summer camps and year-round clinics to both build and improve your skills in the sport.
The Riding Academy at the Horse Palace (15 Nova Scotia Ave.)
In the heart of Toronto, the Riding Academy at the Horse Palace is an easy commute for urbanites looking for an equine retreat. Offering private, semi-private, and group lessons from Tuesday to Sunday for adults and children 8 and above, the Horse Palace provides the downtown rider with top-notch amenities and a variety of mounts.
Wildwood Ranch (14097 Ninth Line)
Offering both trail riding and lessons, Wildwood Ranch is located an hour west of the city in Georgetown. A great option for school groups, birthday parties, or a company retreat, Wildwood provides safe and exciting experiences for riders of every age and level of expertise. Trail rides start at $20 for 15 minutes, and with the option of a full day in the saddle (including lunch) for $185.
The Ranch (2401 Burnhamthorpe Rd. West)
With a wide selection of activities for horse enthusiasts of all kinds, The Ranch in Oakville is only a half hour drive from the city. Hay and sleigh rides are offered in the fall and winter, and The Ranch does twilight trail rides from May to October. If you already have a horse, The Ranch also provides boarding facilities, and boasts hours of trails just a trot away.
What did I miss? Add your suggestions in the comments.
Writing by Simone Garcia
by Staff via blogTO
No comments:
Post a Comment