🐎 Frequently Asked Questions at Pine River Stables – St. Clair, Michigan
Planning your ride at Pine River Stables in St. Clair, Michigan? Whether you’re a first-time rider, booking a birthday party, or just looking for horseback riding near Metro Detroit — you’ll find answers to our most common questions below.
🐴 Frequently Asked Questions – Pine River Stables, St. Clair, Michigan
📅 Booking & Rates
What are your hours?
Our summer hours are 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday — weather permitting. We are CLOSED on Wednesdays. Spring and Fall hours vary. For the most current schedule, please check our website or social media.
What are your ride rates?
Pricing varies based on day, length, and type of ride. Base rates start at $73 per rider. Visit our pricing page for details on packages and themed rides.
Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome when space allows, but we strongly encourage reservations to reduce wait times and secure your spot. Spring voucher riders must book at least 48 hours in advance using the link provided. All rides are first-come, first-served based on check-in time.
🐴 Riding Rules & Safety
Do you have an age requirement for riders?
Yes. Riders must be at least 8 years old and able to follow riding instructions to participate in our trail rides. No double riding is allowed. We do offer hand-led pony rides for children under 8.
Do you require helmets?
Helmets are not required, but they are highly recommended. Horseback riding carries inherent risk, and we strongly suggest riders wear a helmet certified by SEI to ASTM standards.
Do you provide helmets?
We have a limited number of helmets available to rent. However, we recommend that guests bring their own properly fitted SEI/ASTM certified helmet for comfort and sanitation reasons. Rentals can be requested at check-in.
Do you have weight restrictions?
We have horses that can safely carry riders up to 350 lbs. Riders must be able to mount and dismount unassisted from the ground. No mounting blocks are available. (If you can take stairs three at a time, you’re likely fine.)
Can I pick my own horse?
No. Our trained staff will assign you a horse based on your experience and comfort level to ensure the best match and safest ride.
Can we go fast on the ride?
Most of our rides are walking-only to ensure safety and enjoyment. If your group demonstrates the necessary skills, the outrider may allow a faster pace. If you’re only looking to run, we recommend finding another stable.
Is the ride guided?
Yes! All rides are guided by experienced Pine River Stables staff for your safety and enjoyment. This is required by our insurance and part of what makes our rides great for beginners.
🎒 What to Bring
What should I bring for horseback riding in Michigan?
We recommend long pants and closed-toe shoes (tennis shoes or boots). Bug spray, long sleeves, and EpiPens (for bee allergies) are also good ideas. Michigan trails bring surprises — come prepared!
What should I leave behind?
Leave phones, purses, backpacks, water bottles, GoPros, and selfie sticks in the car. We’re out for an hour — enjoy the ride without distractions! Your wrangler can take photos and send them after your ride.
Can I bring phones, cameras, wallets, or keys on the ride?
No. These items often fall out of pockets and are rarely recovered. Phones and devices are not allowed on the trail. Riders caught using them will be asked to hand them over or escorted back without refund. Leave valuables in the car or at the office.
🌧️ Weather & Cancellations
How do I find out about weather closings?
Call or text us at 586-894-2756 for up-to-the-minute updates. We also post closings due to weather on our Facebook page. If you’re already booked, we’ll text and email you directly about any cancellations.
What happens if it rains?
We ride in light rain — it’s part of the experience! For lightning, heavy rain, or unsafe trail conditions, we cancel and reschedule at no charge. Updates go out via text, email, and social media.
🎉 Private Rides & Parties
Do you offer group discounts or special packages?
Yes! We offer group rates and fun experiences like s’more rides, glow rides, and private events. Call us to customize your group horseback ride in Southeast Michigan.
Can I do a private ride?
Yes! We offer a limited number of private trail rides near Metro Detroit. Private rides are exclusive to your group but still guided by our staff. Note: private doesn’t mean fast — safety is always first.
How big are the ride groups?
Group sizes range from 1 to 15 riders depending on the day and demand. If you prefer a small group experience, book a private ride to guarantee it’s just your party.
Do you host private parties?
Yes! We host private horseback riding parties and group events. Contact us to create a custom experience for birthdays, field trips, or team outings.
ℹ️ General Info
Where are you located?
Pine River Stables is located at 1200 Stein Rd, St. Clair, MI 48079 — just off I-94 at the Wadhams Rd exit. We’re about 30 minutes from Chesterfield, 15 minutes from Port Huron, and 45 minutes from St. Clair Shores.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We love cash — it feeds the horses faster! But we also accept all major credit cards, prepaid online reservations, Venmo, and Cash App. Pro tip: Prepay online to guarantee your spot!
Are you open year-round?
No, we are a seasonal horseback riding facility in southeastern Michigan. We ride from mid-April through late November, depending on trail conditions and weather.
Should I tip my wrangler?
Tipping is appreciated but not required. If your wrangler made your ride extra special or kept your group safe and smiling, feel free to tip in cash, via card on file, Venmo, or Cash App.
Is horseback riding safe for beginners?
Yes! Pine River Stables offers beginner-friendly trail rides near Detroit that are perfect for first-timers. Our wranglers lead every ride, and our horses are calm and well-trained. No experience needed!
Do you offer rides for kids under 7?
Children under 7 aren’t allowed on the trail, but we offer pony rides and barn experiences just for them. Contact us to book a fun, age-appropriate activity for your little cowpoke.
Can I ride if I’m pregnant or have a medical condition?
Horseback riding is not recommended during pregnancy or for certain medical conditions. Please consult your doctor and contact us before booking to discuss any accommodations.
Do you sell gift certificates?
Yes! Pine River Stables gift certificates are great for birthdays, holidays, or “just because.” They’re valid toward trail rides, s’more rides, lessons, and more at our Michigan horseback riding facility. Order online or give us a call!
Still have questions?
Feel free to call or text us at 586-894-2756, or message us on Facebook. We’re here to help you plan your perfect ride at Pine River Stables in St. Clair County, Michigan!
🛑 Pine River Stables Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
Planning to ride at Pine River Stables in St. Clair, Michigan? Here’s what you need to know:
Guests must arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled horseback riding departure time. Late arrivals are considered no-shows and will forfeit the full prepaid amount. All sales are final.
Need to change your plans?
We require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to reschedule a ride. A $20 rescheduling fee applies to all guest-initiated changes.
If Pine River Stables cancels your ride due to weather or other unforeseen issues, there is no fee to reschedule. However, your group must rebook within 30 days of your original reservation. Failure to reschedule in that window will result in forfeiting the full amount paid.
🐴 Pine River Stables Trail Ride Rules
These safety rules help ensure everyone has a fun, safe horseback riding experience here at Pine River Stables in St. Clair, Michigan. Please read them carefully before your ride!
1. Leave Back Pockets Empty
Phones, wallets, cash, and credit cards will fall out on the trail. The trees don’t return them, and the horses won’t help you look. Leave valuables in your car or with our office staff.
2. No Cellphones on the Ride
All cellphones, cameras, and smartwatches must be left in the car. Riders caught using a device during the ride will be asked to surrender it or will be escorted back to the barn—without refund. Wranglers are happy to take pictures for you and text them after the ride!
3. Don’t Take Off or Put On Clothing Mid-Ride
No shirt swaps, no hat flips. Horses get spooked by flapping fabric or sudden movements. Please keep everything you wear secure for the entire ride. Hats must be snug—if it flies off, it may scare the horse behind you.
4. Sunglasses Ride at Their Own Risk
If you tuck your sunglasses into your shirt or wear them on your head, they’re likely to vanish mid-ride. Trees grab them, horses crush them. Wear them properly or leave them behind.
5. Closed-Toe Shoes Required
No flip-flops, sandals, crocs, or open shoes. Riders must wear boots or athletic shoes. If you arrive in inappropriate footwear, you will not be allowed to ride, and no refund will be issued.
6. Leave Car Keys in the Office
We’re happy to hold your car keys for you. Losing them on the trail means a very long walk home (or an expensive locksmith call).
7. Listen to Your Wrangler
On the trail, your wrangler is your guide, safety supervisor, and leader. Please follow all instructions—they’re here to keep both you and the horses safe.
8. Have Fun!
This is your chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy horseback riding in beautiful Southeast Michigan. Laugh, take in the scenery, and make memories—just leave the selfies to us!