Happy Trails Riding Academy
Tulare, California
Happy Trails Riding Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Tulare, California, and describes itself as a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center. It offers therapeutic horsemanship, equine-facilitated psychotherapy and a program for veterans. The center says it serves children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities.
- Therapeutic horsemanship group classes (2-4 participants)
- Equine-facilitated psychotherapy (by referral)
- Equine Services for Heroes (veterans program)
- Sensory trail obstacle course
- Covered arena for year-round classes
- Children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional disabilities
- Participants ages 6 to 50+
- Veterans with physical injuries or post-traumatic stress
- People with autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or developmental delay
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, Happy Trails' mission is to enrich "the lives of individuals with disabilities through accredited equine-assisted services." Each service is taught by a PATH Intl. certified instructor. Its therapeutic riding classes, called therapeutic horsemanship, run in groups of two to four and focus on horsemanship skills and working safely with a horse.
The center's equine-assisted psychotherapy classes are co-facilitated by a PATH Intl. certified professional and a mental health professional, and require a referral from a mental health professional at partner organization Hope Horizon. Its Equine Services for Heroes program works with veterans' organizations to serve warriors dealing with physical injuries or post-traumatic stress.
The Horses and Facility
The website lists 19 horses by name. Facilities include the Sence Pavilion, a covered arena that lets classes run in extreme heat or rain, and a 2-acre sensory trail with a wooden bridge, varied footing, fruit trees and plants.
Volunteering
Volunteers must be at least 14 and attend an orientation. They side-walk for riders and, after training, help groom, saddle and lead horses. Email info@wearehappytrails.com to request an orientation spot.
Location
The program is at 2773 E. Oakdale Ave., Tulare, CA 93274. Mail goes to P.O. Box 572, Visalia, CA 93279. A 2019 California Senate release quotes the center as serving Tulare, Kings and Fresno counties.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do I enroll?
The center says each potential participant is evaluated and placed in a service based on individual needs. Call 559-688-8685 or email info@wearehappytrails.com to start.
What ages does Happy Trails serve?
Participants range from age six to 50+, and the center says about 90% are under 18.
How much do classes cost?
Call 559-688-8685 to ask about current rates, and see our guide to equine therapy costs.
Do I need a referral for equine-facilitated psychotherapy?
Yes. The website says EFP requires a referral from a mental health professional at Hope Horizon.
Location
Tulare, California 93274
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.