Reining Liberty Ranch
Traverse City, Michigan
Reining Liberty Ranch is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Traverse City, Michigan, that supports veterans through equine-assisted activities and peer connection. Its G.T. Horses 4 Heroes program moves from groundwork into riding, and the ranch also lists beekeeping and peer support activities. According to its website, programs are free for veterans and first responders.
- Groundwork and introductory horsemanship
- Introductory therapeutic riding
- Recreational and wilderness trail riding
- Multi-day trail riding and camping
- Masterson Method sessions with an equine specialist
- Heroes To Hives beekeeping instruction
- Peer support activities
- Veterans, including non-combat veterans
- Guard and Reserve members
- First responders
- Immediate in-household family members of veterans (separate programs)
More about this center
About the Program
G.T. Horses 4 Heroes runs in progressive 8-week sessions, according to the ranch's website. Participants start with groundwork and basic horse handling, then move to an introduction to therapeutic riding, recreational trail riding around Traverse City, wilderness trail riding, and finally multi-day rides with overnight camping. The ranch also lists individual Masterson Method sessions with an equine specialist, tied on its website to caring for the ranch's therapeutic herd.
The website does not say that licensed therapists or clinicians lead sessions. Its GuideStar profile says many veterans take part each week in six levels of therapeutic horsemanship, alongside weekly dinners, gardening and peer-to-peer activities. For more on this kind of program, see our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
Getting Started
The ranch asks applicants for a DD214 and basic intake information. It requests an Honorable Discharge or equivalent, does not require a VA disability rating, and says programs are open to all veterans. Spouses and children who live in the household can take part through separate programs.
Location
Reining Liberty Ranch is at 4656 Silver Pines Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685. A 9&10 News report described veterans visiting the horses, relaxing in a veterans garden and learning to ride on site.
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 sign up?
Call 231-421-3958 or use the contact form on the ranch's website. You will need your DD214 and some basic intake information.
How much does it cost?
The ranch says its programs are free for veterans and first responders.
Do I need a VA disability rating or combat service?
No. According to the ranch's FAQ, a VA rating is not required, programs are open to all veterans, and Guard and Reserve members qualify. An Honorable Discharge or equivalent is requested.
Can family members take part?
Yes. The ranch says immediate in-household family members can join through separate programs.
Location
Traverse City, Michigan 49685
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.