Our Aiken property sits on 27 acres, just 5½ miles from the center of town and convenient to hotels, restaurants, and shops. The facility features show jumps, cross-country jumps, a dressage ring, and individual turnout paddocks.

Lessons are available daily, with cross-country schooling several times a week across five nearby courses. Pine Top is an hour away, and all other local events are within 20 minutes. During our time there, Aiken hosts a variety of derbies, combined tests, and unrecognized events. Hitchcock Woods — a 2,000-acre park ideal for trail riding — is right nearby. For travel, we're 25 minutes from Augusta Airport and just over an hour from Columbia Airport.

A Great Environment for Every Level

Many people worry their horse isn't far enough along in training to make the trip — but Aiken is actually an ideal place for greener horses. The sandy footing allows for more consistent schooling, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and low-pressure. I aim to bring my younger horses along far enough to get them out on cross-country while we're there, and the environment makes that progression feel natural.