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Introduce your little ones to the joys of horseback riding with safe, guided pony rides at Back 40 Barn in Rothbury, Michigan. Perfect for kids under 7, this gentle adventure offers a memorable outdoor experience in a welcoming farm setting.
Introduce your little ones to the joys of horseback riding with safe, guided pony rides at Back 40 Barn in Rothbury, Michigan. Perfect for kids under 7, this gentle adventure offers a memorable outdoor experience in a welcoming farm setting.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Double JJ Resort · Rothbury, Michigan
Set in the heart of Rothbury, Michigan, the Back 40 Barn offers a charming introduction to equestrian fun for young children with its delightful Pony Rides experience. Perfectly suited for children up to age 7, this activity invites little adventurers to enjoy 10-15 minute laps around the barn atop gentle, well-trained ponies. The ride is a short but memorable way for kids to connect with nature and animals in a safe, welcoming environment that reflects the rural spirit of Michigan's outdoors.
Rothbury lies amid gently rolling farmland and woodlands, providing an authentic backdrop where visitors can experience traditional countryside recreation. The pony rides take place at 5900 S Water Rd, a site beloved by locals and families who appreciate hands-on outdoor experiences that foster confidence and joy in children. As part of the Back 40 Barn’s offerings, the pony rides encourage responsible interaction with animals, introducing young riders to the basics of handling and riding in a supervised setting.
Safety remains paramount, with mandatory helmets provided and strict clothing guidelines—closed-toe and closed-heel shoes are required, and flowy garments are discouraged—to ensure a secure and comfortable ride. The presence of a responsible adult is mandatory, making this a perfect bonding experience for parents and kids. Although brief, the session includes one-minute guided rides around the barn, creating a controlled yet engaging environment for youngsters to feel empowered on their first pony ride.
This experience is ideal for families searching for beginner-friendly outdoor activities that blend mild exercise, animal connection, and local culture. Rothbury itself is a great base for other outdoor adventures, including hiking and fishing, making the pony rides a relaxing complement to a broader itinerary. The farm atmosphere and quality animal care on-site reflect the community’s dedication to sustaining rural Michigan traditions and cultivating an appreciation for nature among the next generation.
Visitors should plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before their session time to allow for helmet fitting and brief instructions. Priced at $5 per 10-minute session, it represents excellent value for a unique experience most children will cherish. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or exploring local gems, the Back 40 Barn pony rides provide a simple, authentic taste of outdoor family fun in the Midwest.
Pony rides are designed for children up to 7 years old; there is no specified minimum age, but the child should be able to sit safely with supervision.
Yes, helmets are required and provided to ensure children’s safety throughout the ride.
Rides are short laps for children only; however, parents must accompany and supervise their kids on-site.
Children should wear closed-toe, closed-heel shoes such as boots or sturdy sneakers and avoid dresses, skirts, or flowy clothing.
There is no publicly stated weight limit, but rides are geared specifically towards young children and small stature riders.
Cancellations require a 24-hour notice to avoid forfeiting the booking.
Double JJ Resort in Montague, Michigan offers a diverse range of outdoor recreation and equestrian experiences across its property. Located in West Michigan, the resort hosts events, riding programs, rentals, and family activities designed for visitors of all ages. The resort's event calendar includes the New Year's Eve Party at the Back Forty Dance Hall featuring the Steeple Hill Band, a bonfire, late-night snacks, and a midnight champagne toast. Equestrian services include horse boarding with access to miles of scenic trails, optional arena and round pen use, on-site management, and knowledgeable staff to ensure care and safety. Riders can purchase a Trail Pass to explore 2,000 acres of marked trails, join guided horseback rides such as the one-hour guided ride, or take riding lessons beginning with a Riding 101 assessment. Specialty experiences include pony rides at the Back 40 Barn, the Paint a Pony family activity, and the Steak Dinner Ride that travels to Carpenter Lake for a fire-cooked steak served by wranglers. Other on-site options extend outdoor recreation with E-Bike rentals for pedal-assist exploration and seasonal promotions such as the 2025 Gift Card Special, which includes complimentary waterpark and mini-golf passes with select gift card purchases available through January 15, 2025. Visitors seeking varied outdoor adventures and equestrian programming will find clear descriptions of offerings and contact information through official resort channels when planning reservations and trips. Booking, schedules, and availability are listed on the resort's official site or by contacting the resort directly for current dates and policies.
Book with Double JJ Resort