Kickin' Dust Horsemanship

Horses lend us the wings we lack, come take your first flight ride!

Kickin' Dust Horsemanship

 

Welcome to Kickin’ Dust Horsemanship, where the joy of horseback riding knows no bounds and unforgettable memories are made at every turn! Established in 2020, KDH is not just a place to ride—it’s a vibrant community dedicated to making equestrian dreams come true for riders of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re stepping into the saddle for the first time or you’re a seasoned rider looking for your next adventure, we believe the incredible bond between humans and horses should be accessible to everyone, creating a space where all are welcome and encouraged to grow.

At KDH, our dedication goes far beyond the riding arena. We specialize in creating magical experiences that last a lifetime. From unforgettable birthday parties to fun-filled field trips, every event is designed to foster connection, joy, and an appreciation for the special bond between people and horses. Imagine the sound of hooves rhythmically pounding the earth as laughter and excitement echo through the air—that’s the Kickin’ Dust difference. Every visit to KDH is an opportunity to create memories that you and your loved ones will cherish for years to come.

But at Kickin’ Dust, we’re about more than just riding. We’re about connection, growth, and well-being. Horses have an extraordinary ability to heal, uplift, and inspire both mentally and physically. At KDH, every lesson, every trot, and every canter is an opportunity to face challenges, build confidence, and celebrate victories—big and small. It’s a place where your journey on horseback is not just about improving skills, but also about discovering new strengths within yourself, both inside and outside of the saddle.

We pride ourselves on our community-driven approach, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, experience, or age, can experience the wonders of horseback riding. At KDH, you’re not just a rider—you’re part of our equine family. We create an environment where friendships are formed, memories are made, and lives are touched by the transformative power of horses.

At Kickin’ Dust Horsemanship, we invite you to join us on a journey of joy, growth, and connection, where the thrill of the ride meets the warmth of a community that feels like home. Whether you’re here for a lesson, a special event, or just to spend time with our beloved horses, you’ll leave with a heart full of happiness and a renewed sense of wonder.

Saddle up for an experience like no other—where horsemanship dreams become cherished realities, and the joy of horses enriches your life in ways you never imagined.

Kickin’ Dust Horsemanship—where every ride is a new adventure, and every rider is part of the family.

Meet The Trainer

Sora Lenz

Sora’s lifelong passion for horses began in her childhood, when her aunt in Wyoming first introduced her to the captivating world of equines. From that moment, horses became more than just animals to her—they were a source of inspiration, companionship, and a deep sense of connection. Surrounded by friends, mentors, and instructors who shared her love for these majestic creatures, Sora quickly immersed herself in the world of horsemanship. Her formative years were spent riding a variety of horses, learning through lessons, and building invaluable skills through horse leases, all of which deepened her commitment to understanding and caring for these magnificent animals.

In 2016, Sora’s equestrian journey took a profound step forward when she welcomed Freya, her beloved horse, into her life. The bond between them grew over the years, embodying the deep, mutual trust and understanding that forms the foundation of Sora’s philosophy about horses. Freya remains a constant source of joy and inspiration, a true companion who helped shape Sora’s vision of what the horse-human connection can be.

In 2020, Sora moved to Grand Junction to pursue a degree in elementary education at Colorado Mesa University. While her academic path was focused on teaching, her passion for horses never waned. Fueled by a desire to share the transformative power of equine companionship with others, she founded KDH, a sanctuary where individuals of all ages can experience the unique bond between humans and horses. Through KDH, Sora’s mission is clear: to provide a space where people can connect with horses in a meaningful way, gaining not only horsemanship skills but also confidence, emotional healing, and a sense of belonging.

Now firmly rooted in Grand Junction, Sora, along with her devoted four-legged companions, is eager to welcome you to KDH. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the equine world, she and her horses are ready to guide you on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and connection. At KDH, Sora believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the magic of horses, and she is dedicated to ensuring that each individual leaves with a deeper appreciation for the unique and powerful relationship between horses and humans.

Meet the Horses

Freya

Meet Freya, a true mustang beauty with a heart as wild and free as her spirit. Since joining our family in December 2016, this spirited mare has been nothing short of extraordinary. Freya was captured in 2011 from the rugged Rock Creek, Wyoming, with only halter training to her name, but from the moment she set hoof on our property, she embarked on a journey of learning, growth, and connection. With Sora by her side, Freya has blossomed into a versatile, multi-talented mare who excels in everything from rodeos to drill teams, trail rides to roping, parades to camps, and even as a patient lesson horse for riders of all ages.

Freya’s story is one of resilience and trust. Despite her wild beginnings, she has become a beloved teacher, guiding riders as young as two years old and forming lasting, meaningful bonds with everyone she meets. There’s a magic about Freya—whether she’s teaching the basics of horsemanship, leading a group on a peaceful trail ride, or showing off her impressive rodeo skills, she does it all with an enthusiasm that is simply infectious. She has an incredible ability to make everyone around her feel at ease, no matter their experience level. Her warm, patient demeanor makes her the perfect equine companion for anyone looking to experience the joy of riding.

When she’s not working her magic in the arena or out on the trail, Freya enjoys some well-deserved downtime indulging in her favorite activities. She has a true passion for treats—apples being her all-time favorite—but she’s not picky and will happily sample whatever delicious snack comes her way. Freya also loves a good mud bath before lessons, rolling around and giving herself a natural spa treatment that always leaves her gleaming. And let’s not forget her fondness for ear scratches—there’s nothing quite like the look of contentment on Freya’s face when you give her a good rub on those sensitive spots! Of course, she also loves basking in the warmth of the sun, soaking in all the natural goodness life has to offer.

Freya’s life has been one of adventure, learning, and growth, and she’s eager to continue making new memories. Whether she’s teaching a little one to ride, leading a group on a trail, or just enjoying a quiet moment in the sun, Freya is a true gem. Her spirited yet gentle nature makes her the heart of our family, and we’re incredibly lucky to have her by our side as she continues to spread joy, one hoofbeat at a time.

Horse

Meet Horse, the barn’s one-of-a-kind character whose name says it all—simple, memorable, and full of charm. Since joining our team in late 2021, Horse has quickly become a beloved personality who never fails to bring laughter to anyone she meets. Though she may have a name that’s as straightforward as they come, her presence is anything but ordinary.

Originally a seasoned trail horse, Horse is the epitome of resilience and adaptability. Despite only having one eye, she doesn’t let anything slow her down—whether it’s leading riders through the dusty desert, navigating rocky terrain, or taking on a sunny trail ride with confidence, Horse faces every challenge with ease. Her one-eyed perspective doesn’t slow her down in the least; in fact, she’s such a pro at what she does that you might forget she’s working with only half the vision of most horses. She’s a true testament to the power of adaptability and spirit—never once letting her disability define her.

Horse is also the barn’s lead trail guide, and it’s no surprise why. Her calm, dependable nature makes her the perfect companion for riders of all levels, especially when exploring the desert landscape. Whether it’s a peaceful ride through the scrub, guiding a first-time rider over rocky paths, or helping a more seasoned rider navigate the changing terrain, Horse is always steady and reliable. But her talents don’t stop on the trails—she’s also a fantastic teacher in the arena, guiding students through new challenges and helping them build confidence with each step.

When it’s time to relax, Horse enjoys the simple pleasures of life, just like any good horse. She’s an expert napper, often found snoozing in the sun after a long day of work, but her true passion is food. Horse takes her role as the head food inspector very seriously. Any treat that enters the pen undergoes her rigorous (and very thorough) scrutiny. She has a particular fondness for snacks, and no apple, carrot, or cookie is safe from her watchful eye. She may only have one eye, but she certainly doesn’t miss a thing when it comes to food!

In a world where laughter, learning, and tasty treats collide, Horse is the horse who brings it all together. Her spirit, her resilience, and her joy for life make her a cherished member of our barn family. Whether she’s guiding a trail ride through the desert, teaching a lesson, or simply enjoying a snack in peace, Horse is always ready to share her wisdom, her humor, and her big heart with everyone she meets.

Jolene

With flaming locks of auburn hair, Jolene made her grand entrance into the KDH family in November 2023, bringing with her a vibrant burst of energy and a personality that instantly stood out. Though the youngest member of the herd, her presence is anything but subtle—Jolene’s spirited nature quickly wove her into the fabric of the family, enriching the collective dynamics with her infectious charm and youthful exuberance.

When she’s not busy brightening the barn with her lively antics, Jolene can usually be found basking in the sun’s warmth, indulging in long, contented naps that she takes with an unmatched dedication. True to her playful nature, she shares a delightful habit with her equine companions: always on the lookout for hidden treats in pockets, offering an extra dose of sweetness to every interaction.

Beyond her adorable quirks, Jolene’s arrival has added a fresh layer of dynamism to the KDH family, infusing the atmosphere with a new sense of joy and excitement. Her energy is contagious, and it’s impossible not to smile in her presence. Whether she’s gently nudging you for attention or simply soaking up the good vibes around her, Jolene is always ready to share her warmth and affection.

With her radiant spirit and endless curiosity, Jolene is eagerly looking forward to meeting you. She can’t wait to create cherished memories, add a dash of fun to your day, and leave a lasting impression with her one-of-a-kind personality.

Jake

Meet Jake, a 12-year-old gelding with a heart as big as his personality! Jake joined our family in July 2024, and from the moment he arrived, he’s been the epitome of comfort and charm. This guy is truly the comfiest ride in the world—especially when he’s going saddle-free! With his easygoing nature, he’s as smooth as butter under saddle, and his gentle demeanor makes every ride feel effortless.

Jake has a sweet tooth and is always on the lookout for a snack. But here’s the funny part: after he gets a tasty treat, he absolutely must lick something—whether it’s a jacket, a wooden hitching post, or even the side of his shelter. No surface is safe from Jake’s need to leave his mark! It’s one of those quirky habits that never fails to make us laugh.

Jake’s journey began on the East Coast, where he was trained and worked as a cart-puller. From there, he made his way to Fruita, Colorado, where his previous owner, hoping to see Jake reach his full potential, gifted him to Kickin Dust Horsemanship. That’s where our paths crossed. When I first met Jake, he was a bit shy, but over time, he’s blossomed into a horse who loves attention—whether it’s a good scratch or just hanging out with his humans.

One of Jake’s favorite pastimes is taking naps—really good naps. He has a special talent for turning into a pancake, flattening out and soaking in all the relaxation he can get. But when he’s not napping, Jake loves hitting the trails and exploring new obstacles. He’s a natural at it and finds great joy in navigating new challenges. Oh, and don’t forget his signature move: Jake loves to smile! His grin lights up a room and never fails to melt hearts.

As the first gelding Sora has ever owned, Jake holds a very special place in our hearts. He’s not just a horse; he’s a companion, an adventurer, and an all-around good boy. Whether he’s smiling for a photo, licking a post, or going on an obstacle course adventure, Jake brings joy and laughter wherever he goes. We’re beyond lucky to have him as part of the family!

In loving memory of Princess

Princess has been a beloved member of the Kickin’ Dust team since the summer of 2022, and her regal presence truly lived up to her name. With her graceful demeanor and calm attitude, she brought a sense of royalty to the barn. Beneath her majestic exterior was a playful spirit that captured the hearts of all who met her.

When it came to snacks, Princess was the undisputed taste tester. Her approach was simple: a treat every 30 seconds of ride time to keep the momentum going! This lighthearted philosophy became a favorite ritual, and her timing always brought smiles to everyone around her.

A seasoned adventurer, Princess was the embodiment of the “been there, done that” horse. From local rodeos to endless hours on the trails, she was a versatile partner, equally suited for beginners learning to ride or experienced riders tackling long treks. She struck the perfect balance of confidence, calm, and experience, making her the go-to horse for riders at every level.

Beyond her time in the saddle, Princess had a strong passion for eating—especially the quirky yellow weeds outside her pen, which she preferred over fresh hay. These weeds became her signature snack, and she’d often break out of her pen to indulge in them, showcasing her cleverness and determination.

At Kickin’ Dust, Princess was more than just a horse—she was a symbol of comfort, joy, and the special connection between horse and rider. Her playful nature, strength, and gentle heart made her a true treasure. Princess loved spending time with her humans, and the bond she shared with them was always heartfelt.

Princess leaves behind a legacy of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories. She will forever hold a special place in the heart of the Kickin’ Dust family, and her royal charm will be deeply missed.

Lessons we offer

Private Lesson

Private lessons offer dedicated time for students to work individually with the instructor and the horse, focusing on specific goals. Beginners concentrate on mastering foundational equestrian skills, while intermediate and advanced riders engage in discussions with the instructor to set and pursue future riding objectives.

Events

Keep an eye on KDH's Facebook page for exciting day and summer camps! Whether you're a horse enthusiast or a newcomer, KDH provides birthday parties for all ages with various options. Additionally, consider KDH for engaging field trips!

Trail Rides

Come explore the variety of trails Grand Junction has to offer. Prior lessons are required.

Horse Training

Whether you're dealing with mustangs or in need of tune-ups, we've got you covered! Feel free to reach out and discuss your specific needs with us.

Join the KDH family today!

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