Why Icelandics?

Our aim is to showcase this brave, strong “gaited” breed of horse from Iceland. They are perfect for the rugged Bella Coola terrain and wild environment. With no natural predators in Iceland for over a thousand years these horses can keep their cool around our abundant wildlife and have very little “spook”.

Icelandic horses also have a curious and friendly personality. They are spirited yet gentle horses. While certainly known for their big manes and tails, fluffy winter coat and strong builds, Icelandic’s are probably most celebrated for their smooth and exciting gaits.

While most horses can walk, trot, canter/gallop, the Icelandic horse also has an extra gait called the Tölt. The Tölt is a smooth 4 beat gait that will make you feel like you are floating. Some Icelandic horses even have a fifth gait called the flying pace which is truly exhilarating.

Don’t let their size lead you to call them ponies, while most Icelandics measure 12.2 to 14.2 hands high at the withers this breed of horse is big boned and hardy and most breed registries refer to them as horses. Remember these are the original horses of the Vikings.

Trail Rides

The closest Equine equivalent of an ATV must be the Icelandic Horse. These agile, strong and intelligent animals can take you places that are usually too extreme for most horses .

We don’t offer the usual nose to tail trail ride. We encourage everyone to learn the basics of horsemanship in our arena prior to hitting the trail. We believe that this makes the experience much better for both horse and rider. Because of this our horses are not desensitized and are still tremendous fun for even intermediate or advanced riders.

All Rides start with a introduction to the Icelandic horse and a 15 minute lesson in the arena to give beginners confidence, and advanced beginners a refresher. Intermediate or Advanced riders can use the arena time to learn some Tölt.

Trail rides are conducted at the walk.

Lessons

Child and Adult classes available several evenings a week.

Our aim for lessons is to install and then build on the basics of good horsemanship to create a working partnership between horse and rider.

While it is possible to pick up some basic riding skills on the odd ride here and there we strongly encourage students to commit to at least 6 lessons to start with so that you can begin to see results and start to feel comfortable in the saddle.

Our goal is to teach a secure seat , the correct body position and good use of the aids while treating the horse with respect and empathy.

At Thunder Mountain Adventures we follow the Equine Canada Rider Level instruction guidelines.