River Valley Riders
Afton, Minnesota
River Valley Riders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that offers therapeutic horseback riding and carriage driving for people with special needs. Lessons take place at its facility in Afton, Minnesota, and the program says it is open to students from the greater Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area and western Wisconsin.
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Carriage driving
- Financial aid program
- Volunteer opportunities
- People with special needs
- Riders ages 4 and up
- Families in the Twin Cities metro area
- Families in western Wisconsin
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, lessons help participants gain self-confidence, build strength, and improve balance and hand-eye coordination. River Valley Riders says its lessons follow the safety, training and instructional guidelines of PATH Intl.
The lesson season runs roughly from mid-April to late October or early November, and a lesson calendar is posted on the website. River Valley Riders says more than 200 volunteers give about 6,000 hours each year to run the program.
Getting Started
The website says all lesson spots are currently full and estimates the waiting list at one to two years. To join the waitlist, families mail a registration form, a liability and photo release, a medical history and physician's statement signed by a licensed provider, and a non-refundable registration fee, which the website lists at $75. Registrations are not accepted electronically, and the medical form must arrive within 60 days to hold a waitlist place.
The website lists substitute lessons at $65. Medical insurance is not accepted. Partial financial aid is available, and families who need help with the cost can apply using the guidelines and application on the Participants page. For more on what to expect, see our guide to therapeutic riding.
Location
Lessons are held at 2007 Neal Avenue South, Afton, MN 55001. The mailing address for registrations and payments is 8362 Tamarack Village, Suite 119-440, Woodbury, MN 55125.
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.
Is there a waiting list?
Yes. The website says all lesson opportunities are currently full and estimates the wait at one to two years. Joining the waitlist requires mailed forms and a registration fee, which the website lists at $75.
What is the minimum age?
River Valley Riders lists a minimum age of 4.
Is help with the cost available?
Yes. The center offers partial financial aid, and families who need help with the cost can apply. Medical insurance is not accepted for payment.
How do I contact River Valley Riders?
Call 651-439-2558 or email info@rivervalleyriders.org.
Location
Afton, Minnesota 55001
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.