Beginner Riding Lessons in Omaha, NE
Great Riding Starts Long Before the Reins Are Picked Up
At Ashley Mason Equestrian (AME), we offer a structured, horsemanship-first riding program designed to develop confident riders and willing, well-cared-for horses. We serve adult riders, youth riders, and families through riding lessons, horse leasing, horse showing, and seasonal camps in the Omaha Metro area.
Start with a barn tour
Premier Horseback Riding Memberships
Choosing the right riding program matters. A Barn Tour allows you to see our program in action, understand how we teach, and feel confident about the next step — without pressure or guesswork.
During your Barn Tour, you’ll:
Tour the facility and meet our team
Learn how our program is structured
See lessons and horsemanship in action
Ask questions and receive clear guidance
No riding is offered during the tour
You don’t need to decide anything before you visit.
The ame difference
A Program Built on Horsemanship, Structure, and Care
Ashley Mason Equestrian is not a drop-in lesson barn. Our program is intentionally designed to support long-term growth for both riders and horses.
We are guided by the Levels of Horsemastership, a 10-Level curriculum hand-created by our founder and Program Director, Ashley Mason. Similar to karate belt levels, this system provides measurable benchmarks so riders and families clearly understand progress and expectations.
Riders develop skills across the Five Pillars of Horsemastership:
Riding
Knowledge
Horsemanship
Tack and Tacking
Stable Management
This structure creates confidence, safety, and consistency at every stage. Book a tour today to come see what sets us apart!
OUR Programs
A Guided Riding Program — Not a Menu of Options
At Ashley Mason Equestrian (AME), our programs are designed to work together as part of one intentional, horsemanship-first system. Riders do not need to decide everything upfront. Instead, we guide each rider and family based on age, experience, goals, and readiness.
Every new rider and family begins with a Barn Tour. This allows us to recommend the best starting point and ensure a safe, positive experience for both rider and horse.
Lessons
Building Confident Riders Through Structure and Education
At Ashley Mason Equestrian, riding lessons are part of a structured, horsemanship-first program designed to help riders progress with confidence at every stage. Whether you’re brand new, returning to riding, or looking to continue developing your skills, lessons are thoughtfully guided based on each rider’s experience, goals, and readiness.
All lessons are built around the Levels of Horsemastership, a 10-Level curriculum hand-created by our founder and Program Director, Ashley Mason. Similar to karate belt levels, this system provides clear, measurable benchmarks across Riding, Knowledge, Horsemanship, Tack and Tacking, and Stable Management, ensuring progress is intentional and earned.
Each lesson includes hands-on horsemanship, quality school horses, and professional instruction within a supportive barn environment. Riders may also have opportunities to participate in group horsemanship classes, clinics, and community learning experiences as part of their development.
Education, Confidence, and Fun — Built on Structure
We offer exciting week-long Summer Camps and single-day Pony Camps for young riders. Our Summer Camps provide a full week of riding, horse care, and fun activities to enhance skills and foster friendships. For a shorter experience, our Pony Camps offer a great introduction to riding and horse care in a fun, supportive environment.
Both options are perfect for kids eager to dive into the world of horses and enjoy memorable equestrian adventures.
Leasing
Developing Responsibility, Partnership, and Consistency
Horse leasing at AME is an opportunity for riders who are ready to deepen their commitment and responsibility.
Leasing is not a starting point — it is a progression. Riders are considered for leasing based on demonstrated readiness through the Levels of Horsemastership, consistency in lessons, and an understanding of horse care and horsemanship.
Leasing helps riders:
Build a stronger partnership with one horse
Develop consistency in riding and care
Learn responsibility beyond lesson time
Prepare for future goals, including showing
Leasing opportunities are discussed and approved through the Barn Tour and ongoing evaluation process.
Horse Showing
systematic and Thoughtful Preparation for the Show Ring
At Ashley Mason Equestrian, our Horse Showing Program is designed for riders who are ready to take their skills to the competitive stage, offering both a Junior and Senior show team. This program provides comprehensive training and preparation for a variety of equestrian competitions, from local shows to rated shows.
Riders receive tailored coaching focused on both the technical aspects of riding and the strategies for successful competition. We support our participants every step of the way, ensuring they are competition-ready and confident. Whether you’re a young novice eager to join our Junior team or an experienced competitor aiming to refine your skills on the Senior team, our Horse Showing Program is the perfect platform to achieve your competitive goals.
TESTIMONIALS:
My daughter had been riding with Ashley Mason for 2 years now. Ashley's program is so much more than just learning to ride, they spend time learning about horses and their care. the amount of confidence and growth my daughter has gained form her time with Ashley is simply amazing. She has made many new friendships in these last two years and the memories that will last her a lifetime.
- Clarissa, AME Parent
Ashley is a gem. She is a brilliant instructor with endless knowledge about horses and proper English riding. She also has the best school horses I’ve ever ridden. The combination of the two will work wonders on learning or improving how to ride. I can’t recommend her enough!
- Julie, Adult Amatuer Rider
Absolutely recommend Ashley!! My daughter has been riding with her for almost a year. Ashley not only teaches how to ride, she teaches horsemanship, accountability, and responsibility too. My daughter looks forward to every lesson and her riding skills and confidence have grown immensely!
-Angie, AME Parent
Our Team
Ashley Mason
Founder & Head Instructor
With over 20 years of experience, Ashley Mason is known for her direct teaching style, deep horsemanship knowledge, and passion for developing confident, capable riders. She leads programs at both our Omaha, NE, and Oakland, IA locations and is the creator of the Levels of HorseMastership curriculum. Ashley’s goal is simple: teach riders to think, ride, and care for horses like pros—while having fun doing it.
Samantha Hanusek
Assistant Trainer
Samantha brings energy, patience, and a sharp eye for detail to every lesson. As Assistant Trainer, she works closely with riders to build strong fundamentals, boost confidence, and support progress in and out of the saddle. Whether she’s helping a new rider master the basics or coaching more advanced skills, Samantha is a steady, encouraging presence in the barn and a key part of our team.
Mckenna Brown
Info coming soon
Lyra Spies
Lyra is a skilled and passionate horsewoman who brings a calm, confident presence to every lesson. With a strong background in horsemanship and a thoughtful approach to teaching, Lyra excels at helping riders understand the “why” behind their work—both on the ground and in the saddle. Lyra is a valued part of our training team, dedicated to helping each rider grow with purpose and confidence.
Who do you teach?
We welcome beginners through advanced riders. New riders start with an intro/assessment so we can place you in the right lesson track and horse. Our lessons start at 4 years old with our Tiny Rider Program!
How do I get started?
Book a quick barn tour or intro lesson to meet our instructors, see the facility, and talk through your goals. During your visit, we’ll cover safety basics, rider level, attire and equipment, scheduling options, and budget, then outline clear next steps—single lessons, monthly memberships, camps/clinics, or leasing—so you know exactly how to begin. Barn tours are family-friendly and only take a few minutes, and they’re the best way to decide if AME is a fit. Reserve your spot now: https://bit.ly/AMEBarnTour
What do I need to wear for lessons?
For safety and comfort, riders must wear an ASTM/SEI-certified riding helmet (bike helmets aren’t permitted), boots with a small heel (about ½"), and long pants such as breeches, jodhpurs, snug jeans, or leggings to prevent rubbing. Tops should be fitted (tees or polos are great); avoid loose or flowy clothing that could catch on tack. Sneakers, sandals, and flat-soled shoes aren’t allowed. Tie long hair back and skip dangling jewelry, scarves, or accessories. Dress for the weather—layers in cooler months, breathable fabrics in heat—and consider gloves for grip and blister prevention. Protective vests are optional but encouraged, especially for new riders or those jumping. If you don’t own a helmet yet, ask about short-term loaners for your first lesson; regular riders should plan to purchase their own.
Do I need to own a horse?
No—owning a horse isn’t required; our school horses are available for lessons. For more saddle time, approved riders can lease: a half lease adds several extra rides each week with priority scheduling while the horse still teaches, and a full lease gives near-exclusive access for extra practice and events. Leases include use of our tack and a plan with your instructor; you handle grooming and post-ride care, while veterinary and farrier decisions stay with us. Availability is limited and based on rider fit and goals—please ask your coach about current openings and requirements.
