Visitors' Frequently Asked Questions:

boy on step at Bachelor Creek Ranch How and when do I schedule my child for a session (ages 8-18)?
Our season opens in April and runs until mid-October. You need to call our office to schedule with us at 509-969-1599. April 15th or our next business day, we start scheduling for May and we continue this pattern every month during our open season. Please make a note to call soon because our availability may be limited and our schedule can fill quickly each month. We do occasionally have cancellations and do not mind if you call each week to see if our schedule has any openings.

Who needs a completed release form to be on ranch grounds?
Everyone! Because of the unpredictable nature of horses and ranch life, each person who visits the ranch is required to have our current release form on file or completed first thing on arrival at the ranch. Our insurance dictates that anyone who does not have a current and complete release form cannot be allowed involvement in our activities and programs.

group at Bachelor Creek Ranch Do I need to stay on the property during my child's session?
Yes. Though parents are free to rest in the shade, watch on the side of the arena, or stay in their car in the parking area, we ask that parents stay on the property during their child's session. Though we request that you be on the property during your child's sessions, we understand that you may be out of sight from the common area if you have gone to wait in your car in the parking lot. In this circumstance, we ask that you please let the staff know so we can locate you quickly in case of an emergency. It is also helpful to let your child know where you are as well.

Where do I park when I come to the ranch?
For the safety of the children and horses, we request that parents and visitors park in the designated parking area. If you have a physical condition that makes it difficult to walk, feel free to park up next to the garage. Please drive slowly up the driveway and be sure to keep your eyes open for children and animals.

Will my child always ride during his or her session?
There may be times when your child will not ride during his or her session. According to the staff member's discretion or the child's wishes, he or she may take part in any number of alternate activities during a session, including ranch chores, crafts, games, grasshopper catching, etc. Bachelor Creek Ranch aims to offer mentorship, ranch-style activities, healthy friendships and horse care instruction free of charge to youth in our community. Our riding times are a conduit towards these goals. Although we aspire to help your child become a safe rider who understands and cares for horses, our main goal is not to produce "accomplished" riders. If this is your hope, we would recommend scheduling your child for riding lessons at a traditional stable.

What should my child wear to the sessions?
Our season opens in April and runs until mid-October. Due to the unpredictable weather, we recommend paying close attention to the clothes your child wears to his/her session. Layers are a good idea for rapid weather changes.

Required Attire:

Long Pants
Sturdy shoes with closed toes and closed heels or riding boots

Remember:

Water
Sunscreen

Additional suggestions for HOT weather:

Short-sleeve or tank tops (no spaghetti straps)
Hat (for sun protection...we supply helmets)
Lip balm
Snack

Additional suggestions for COLD weather:

Several layers of clothing (as the weather moderates your child can shed layers)
Warm Coat
Gloves
Knit Cap
Warm socks
Canister of a warm drink

cleaning a horse's hoof at Bachelor Creek Ranch How often can I expect my child to be scheduled at Bachelor Creek Ranch?
It is our goal to start the month with every child scheduled twice. In addition to this, if we have cancellations and/or a low sign-up rate, parents can check the schedule availability for the weeks in between their children's original sessions.

What should I do if my child cannot make it to a session?
If you need to cancel a session, we would appreciate a call at least three days in advance. This will allow us enough time to give another child from our waiting list an opportunity to schedule that appointment time. However, we understand unexpected schedule changes do occur at the last minute. If this is the case, please call as soon as possible.

Can I bring my child's friends to the ranch to play and watch while my child rides?
Your child's friends are welcome at the ranch. However, you must bring a completed release form in the child's name to our office before he or she will be allowed to be involved in ANY activities at the ranch. Remember that the child's legal guardian MUST be the one to complete the form. Please call our office if you have any questions about the release forms. We will be happy to assist you. While the visiting child is here, please be considerate of the children who are currently taking part in a session by allowing the staff member's attention and guidance to be focused only on the child they are working with. As the adult bringing additional children, you are responsible for those children during their visit.

child on horseback at Bachelor Creek Ranch How can my child get involved in the Junior Mentor Program?
We love for our teen participants in our program to also be involved in our Junior Mentor program. This year, the program is available by referral. If your teen has a heart to serve, they can ask if they could be considered for our Mentor Team. If the staff feels they are at the age/maturity level necessary for this program, the staff will make a recommendation for the child to join our volunteer team.