Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association
Lethbridge, Alberta
Lethbridge Therapeutic Riding Association (LTRA) is a registered charity on a 44-acre site about 6 km east of Lethbridge, Alberta. It offers therapeutic riding, adaptive riding lessons, a summer day camp, an Expressive Arts Program and equine-facilitated wellness. Its programs are open to people of all abilities.
- Therapeutic riding (CanTRA-accredited)
- Adaptive riding lessons
- 'Riding Rookies' summer day camp
- Expressive Arts Program with horses
- Equine-facilitated wellness
- Horse boarding
- People with physical disabilities
- People with mental disabilities or behavioural issues
- Riders aged 4 and up (therapeutic riding)
- Children aged 6 to 17 (summer camp)
- Riders aged 8 and up (riding lessons)
More about this center
About the Program
LTRA began in 1976 as Rainbow Riding Centre, when a few volunteers offered riding and horse care instruction to students with disabilities. LTRA and its instructors are accredited by CanTRA for its therapeutic programs.
Therapeutic riding classes run in sessions of about 5 to 8 weeks, with each rider attending once a week on weekday mornings, afternoons or early evenings. Riders must be at least 4 years old, need a doctor-signed medical clearance form, and must have an aide or parent present at every class. Weight limits are 79 kg (175 lb), or 75 kg (165 lb) for riders whose balance is affected. The centre says it works with each rider's doctor or physiotherapist to set goals.
Lessons, Camps and Arts
Adaptive riding lessons are one-hour group classes on Wednesday and Thursday evenings for riders aged 8 and up who can ride independently and know how to stop and turn. Coach Jay Skoog is a Certified Horsemanship Association instructor. New riders complete a short assessment and start in a beginner class.
The 'Riding Rookies' summer day camp runs Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in weekly sessions through July and August for ages 6 to 17, including children with behavioural, developmental or intellectual needs. Support staff can attend at no cost. The all-ages Expressive Arts Program offers equine-inspired art such as horseshoe art and painting.
The Facility and Staff
The site has a heated 27 by 55 metre indoor arena with a heated viewing area, a 30 by 49 metre outdoor arena, 26 outdoor corrals, paddocks and pastures, and the Kinsmen Learning Centre, with offices and classroom space. Kale Hayes is the executive director, and Eilish Short is the therapeutic riding instructor and equine-facilitated wellness facilitator.
Location
LTRA is at 24 205015 Hwy 512, Lethbridge County, Alberta T1J 5N8, about 6 km east of Lethbridge on Highway 512. The office can be reached at 403-328-2165.
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 register for therapeutic riding?
Complete the registration and waiver forms, have a doctor sign the medical clearance form, and pay the class fee and annual membership. Call 403-328-2165 to check class availability.
How much do programs cost?
Therapeutic riding is $30 per class plus an annual membership ($30 individual, $65 family), and riding lessons are $50 per class ($30 for current therapeutic riding clients) plus a one-time $25 assessment. Summer camp is $375 per week. Subsidies are available, and families who need help with the cost can ask the office. See our guide to equine therapy costs.
Is there a waitlist for riding lessons?
Lesson spots are offered first come, first served, with priority for active therapeutic riding clients. Registrants who are not placed go on a waitlist in order of registration.
Are classes cancelled in cold weather?
The indoor arena is heated, but classes are generally cancelled below -20°C before windchill or when roads are unsafe. LTRA credits classes it cancels for weather.
Location
Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 5N8
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.