North Country RIDE
Esko, Minnesota
North Country RIDE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit therapeutic riding center in Esko, Minnesota, near Duluth. It offers therapeutic riding for people with physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioral disabilities, along with a horsemanship program and a summer camp for youth. Its website says it has been operating since 1982.
- Therapeutic riding (one-hour weekly lessons)
- Individualized equine-assisted activities
- Horsemanship lessons
- Summer H.A.Y. Camp for ages 8 to 13
- Volunteer training and orientation
- People with physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioral disabilities
- People with autism spectrum disorder
- People with cerebral palsy or Down syndrome
- People with traumatic brain injury
- People with anxiety, depression or PTSD
- At-risk youth
More about this center
About the Program
North Country RIDE says its mission is to promote personal growth and development through equine-assisted therapeutic, educational and recreational activities. Riders follow individualized programs, and lessons are taught by certified instructors. Executive Director Julie Peterson and Danielle Hurd are listed as Certified Instructors of Riders with Disabilities.
Therapeutic riding is offered in five-week sessions, with one-hour lessons once a week, and the center runs several sessions from spring through fall. The horsemanship program teaches leading, grooming, tacking and riding. The website lists it at $160 for a package of four one-hour lessons, and says it runs year-round, weather permitting.
Volunteering
Lessons depend on volunteers who work as horse leaders and side walkers. Volunteers must be at least 14, and horse experience is helpful but not required. The center provides training and holds volunteer orientations, and asks volunteers to choose a weekly class they can attend for a full session.
Location
North Country RIDE is located at 180 Hatinen Rd, Esko, MN 55733, in Carlton County near Duluth.
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 for therapeutic riding?
Applications are available on the Forms page of the center's website, or you can call 218-879-7608 or email ncride@gmail.com.
How much do lessons cost?
The website lists current fees for therapeutic riding sessions, and lists horsemanship lessons at $160 for a package of four. Call 218-879-7608 with questions about cost. See our guide to equine therapy costs.
Is there a program for kids in the summer?
Yes. The center lists a three-day Summer H.A.Y. Camp for youth ages 8 to 13, held mornings from 9 a.m. to noon.
Can I volunteer without horse experience?
Yes. Volunteers must be at least 14, and the center provides training. Call 218-879-7608 or email ncride@gmail.com to get started.
Location
Esko, Minnesota 55733
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.