PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SUNSET STABLES . racing hot spots .
“ It ’ s a treasure right next to the city ,” says Oliveira . “ You ’ re in the middle of nowhere next to Providence . It ’ s beautiful and peaceful .”
Sunset Stables offers rides through Lincoln Woods State Park .
The stables offer both horse riding lessons and trail rides through adjacent Lincoln Woods State Park , and see students from ages eight to seventy-eight .
“ Lessons are there for those who have a passion to learn , whereas trail riding is there if you just want to enjoy yourself and relax ,” she says . “ With trail rides , you don ’ t have to take lessons or be an experienced rider .”
There are many skills that come out of learning how to ride a horse , especially if you ’ re committed , says co-owner Jim Borden .
“ They ’ re the most forgiving and tolerant animals , so that somebody who ’ s never ridden before can get on the horse and enjoy it ,” says Borden . “[ Oliveira ] has spent twenty-five years building a herd of the right horses .”
The fresh air and natural scenery aren ’ t the only benefits of trail riding . Trotting in the quiet environment while bonding with your designated horse for the day can be soothing for some .
One regular , a seventy-eight-year-old woman named Jill , visits the grounds every week . The hourlong weekly rides have become her therapy , and she feels at ease once she ’ s in the saddle .
“ She hugs me afterward and says , ‘ I ’ ve had a great ride . I like being around the horses ,”’ says Oliveira . 1 Twin River Rd ., Lincoln , 722- 3033 , sunsetstablesri . com
SOUTH
Stepping Stone Ranch
West Greenwich
For about sixty years , Stepping Stone Ranch has taught kids and adults alike the art of equestrianism . Within the Arcadia Management Area , the ranch ’ s 118 acres allow for serene riding and teaching . Originally built and owned by Henry Davis and his family , Stepping Stone was purchased by owners Heidi and Darrell Waldron , who ’ ve taken the
A 150 YEAR HISTORY CARE ■ COMPASSION ■ COMMUNITY
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94 RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l SEPTEMBER 2024