Three years ago today we opened Hidden Palms Ranch to offer horseback trail rides! In some ways it feels like it was just yesterday, and in other ways it feels like we have always been doing this. We have learned so much on this journey, and we have thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the wonderful people that have come out to ride with us.
Moose and Marigold in the early years.
Before we opened we just had Moose and Marigold as our family horses. When we decided to start our trail ride business, we knew we needed another good horse. We found Lemon, a 17.1 h Percheron. She was a gentle giant and perfect for the job.
Lemon
After a month long soft opening, we officially opened for business on April 1, 2017 with our team of three amazing horses giving rides for private groups of two.
In just three short years we have grown to a team of 7 horses, 3 trail guides, a mini horse, 3 dogs, bunnies and ducks! (Chickens and goats spent some time here too) We book rides to groups of 2 -5 people 7 days a week!
We’ve watched people of all ages, whether they are beginners or experienced, come and deepen their love for these beautiful animals.
We experienced several hurricanes and learned new ways to prepare from each one.
We have some great stories….like the time one of our chickens hopped into the back of our guest’s pickup truck. They drove around for hours and even stopped for lunch before realizing she was back there! They brought her home safely, after taking a few selfies with her of course!
We’ve participated in Community events like this Kentucky Derby party in Downtown Sanford. Beauty was the most willing model!
We have lost a few of our furry friends.….but we have also seen new life. Our holland lop bunny babies are the cutest thing ever!
We’ve hosted summer camps, birthday parties and have helped dozens of guys pull off a romantic proposal! (and they all said yes!)
We have loved spending so much time out in nature, enjoying the beauty that is all around us, and getting a new perspective of what this world has to offer. Everything looks better from the back of a horse!
Wild sunflowers bloom in the conservation in October.
Lake Jesup Conservation Area
The past three years have been truly amazing. There has been a lot of work, many lessons learned, some frustration and setbacks and even some heartbreak. What stands out though are all the amazing people we have met from all over the world, the joy we see on our guests faces, the bucket lists that have been checked off, the fears overcome, and the beauty we get to be a part of every day.
Thank you to all of you who have been a part of our story so far. We couldn’t have done it without you! We would love for you to come ride with us again and see all that has changed!
If you have never been, get in touch with us! We welcome you to come ride with us and see for yourself how peaceful, beautiful and special trail riding in Central Florida can be!
Our herd today