Horsemanship: Basics and Beyond in the Ozarks

After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 4:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. This is a Road Scholar Retreats program. Programming at Retreat locations includes opportunities for light morning exercise, interaction with members of the local community, locally sourced meals, and evening entertainment. Meals will be in the Trout Lodge dining hall unless indicated otherwise. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The YMCA of the Ozarks-Trout Lodge includes a wide selection of activities and amenities, ranging from rec centers to workout facilities and hikes that vary based on the seasons. The Group Leader will be happy to review these opportunities and offer free time suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

In the Trout Lodge dining hall.

We will set out with our Group Leader to explore the campus of Trout Lodge and Camp Lakewood. We’ll learn a little about the history of the YMCA and how we go the name Trout Lodge.

In the dining hall.

We will start the morning by gathering for a presentation by a ranch expert and assistant who will tell us about some of the basics of animal science and equine behavior as well as horse colors, markings, and breeds. Next, we’ll walk (or ride the shuttle) over to meet the herd at the nearby Triangle Y Ranch, and receive our horse assignments for the program. Please wear sturdy riding shoes, pants, and a hat if you choose for riding horses.

In the dining hall.

We will mount up for an arena lesson in Western Riding Style and go over the basics in neck reining and horse commands. Our ranch expert will point out the different horses as well as the similarities and differences between the breeds. She will also point out facts about herd life such as who the “alpha” is, what that means, which horses are friends and stick together, and who doesn’t get along.

In the dining hall.

We’ll enjoy an evening by reflecting on some cowboy poetry and wisdom.

In the dining hall.

We will set out on a mile-long walk to the Ranch with our Group Leader. We’ll then walk over to the stables to groom and saddle our horses under expert supervision. We’ll mount up for our first trail ride through the forests in the foothills of the St. Francis Mountains.

In the dining hall.

We will gather in the arena for a riding lesson with our horses to further our skills on an obstacle course. This lesson will allow each of us learn at our own comfort levels. The remainder of the afternoon will be free to engage in other activities Trout Lodge has to offer. Activities that may be available (depending on season, weather, etc.) typically include archery, canoeing/kayaking, pontoon rides, riflery, rock climbing, zip lining, as well as rec centers, workout, and arts and crafts facilities.

In the dining hall.

We’ll kick up some dust with line dances at the barn dance! Afterwards, we’ll cool down in our meeting space with some delicious ice cream and all the toppings.

In the dining hall.

We will set out on a mile-long walk to the Ranch with our Group Leader. We’ll then walk over to the barn to groom and saddle our horses. We’ll then set out with ranch staff on a 4-mile trail ride along the far side of the lake with beautiful views up to the bluff.

In the field with great views over Lake Sunnen, we’ll have bagged lunches.

We will ride back to the barn from the bluff. The remainder of the afternoon will be free. You might like to check out the Arts & Crafts Department or other available Trout Lodge activities.

In the dining hall.

We will gather around a nice warm campfire and enjoy some s'mores, hot chocolate, and each other's company.

In the dining hall.

We’ll set out on one last trail ride through our beautiful forest. As we use the skills we’ve gained, we’ll also enjoy those mountain views one last time.

In the dining hall.

We will hop aboard a shuttle for an afternoon together at a family-owned winery. There, we’ll explore the winery, see how wines are made, the equipment used and learn about the winery’s connection with the local community and other farms in the area. There will also be an opportunity to taste some of the wines.

In the dining hall.

We'll go on adventure to our zipline during the evening! Climb a 35 foot pole and then zoom down a 250 foot zipline!

In the dining hall.

We will set out on a mile-long walk to the Ranch with our Group Leader. We will visit the herd, observe a farrier demo, take pictures with our horses, and ask our cowgirls any remaining questions.

In the dining hall. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!