• Ricochet Ridge Ranch Newsletter, 2005
• Read what other folks wrote about us
• Meet Owner/Manager Lari Shea

The weather on the Mendocino Coast is generally mild, rarely rising above 80 degrees F., even in the summer. When the fog rolls in, it can be chilly enough for winter weight jackets, scarves, and riding gloves. Although rain is rare during summer months, anything is possible, and guests on longer rides should bring full rain gear in order to assure sunshine. Sunglasses are advised to shield the eyes from both glare and dust. Winter rarely sees snow, and non-rainy days are usually sunny and lovely. The trails remain safe.

Owner/manager Lari Shea has been a riding instructor for 25 years, and our staff also includes many accomplished horsefolks who are good at sharing their knowledge. We have some terrific horses who are both fit and sensible, good for taking novice riders safely on the trail, and yet willing to keep up with horses more suitable for advanced riders. Many of our horses have won high placings at numerous endurance races and dressage/horse shows.

Riders are welcome to bring their own saddles. Please indicate the style, size, and brand name of your saddle if you do so. In order that we can best match you with a suitable horse, please send a detailed description of your riding experience, current riding situation, preference for type of horse, and your height, age, and weight.

Vacation guests should bring a personal first aid kit in a small bag. Back packs are not safe for riding purposes. Please include insect repellant, sun screen, personal allergy medication, aspirin, "moleskin" to pad rubs, a loud whistle, sharp pocket knife, chapstick, small plastic water bottle, bandaids, antibiotic ointment, and anything else such as tampax or compass that you think you might use. Don't forget your camera, and do bring whatever musical instruments you might play. Ricochet Ridge Ranch can provide you with a saddle or cantle bag.

Although a car is useful for facilitating moves between our three different lodges, it is not required. If necessary, you and your luggage will be transported to each night's lodging. Remember to pack sufficient riding clothes, and appropriate changes for comfort at night. You will need a bathing suit for the hot tubs.

The most common rider problem on long rides is always LEGS RUBBED RAW. Unless you wear English riding breeches, please consider doing as most experienced endurance riders do - WEAR PANTY HOSE UNDER YOUR LEVIS. At the very least, bring some in your saddle bag to use as necessary. (World renowned endurance rider Dr. Kerry Ridgway highly recommends "Big Mamma's" for men!)

Call us at 707-964-9669
or e-mail for more information