What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trail Ride Guide / Horseback Tour Guide position at Red Fern Riding Center - Shelby Trails Horse Park?
Trail Ride Guide / Horseback Tour Guide
Location: 5063 Aiken Road, Simpsonville, KY 40067
Compensation: $16–$17 per hour, plus tips
Position Type: Independent Contractor
Season: April through November
Do you enjoy spending your days on horseback and introducing others to the outdoors? Red Fern Riding Center is hiring experienced riders to lead guided trail rides through Shelby Trails Park. This is a customer-focused position that combines horsemanship with hospitality.
We welcome applicants from any riding discipline, including Western, English, Dressage, Hunter/Jumper, and Eventing.
Schedule
Guided rides operate Wednesday through Sunday.
Available shifts:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Afternoon: 12:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Both part-time and full-time opportunities are available.
What You'll Be Doing
- Prepare horses for scheduled rides by grooming and tacking.
- Welcome guests and assist with check-in and helmet fitting.
- Conduct a safety briefing before each ride.
- Lead or assist with guided trail rides lasting approximately 60–90 minutes.
- Keep riders safe while providing an enjoyable experience.
- Untack horses, return them to pasture, and clean equipment after rides.
- Assist with general horse care and daily barn duties as needed.
Required Experience
Applicants should have a minimum of two years of recent riding experience and be comfortable handling horses in a variety of situations.
You should be able to:
- Ride confidently at the walk, trot, and canter.
- Mount from the ground without assistance.
- Pony another horse safely.
- Handle horses calmly both on the ground and under saddle.
- Lead groups of beginner riders while maintaining awareness of the entire group.
Horse Knowledge
Successful candidates should be familiar with:
- Grooming and hoof care
- Saddling and bridling
- Proper quick-release knot tying
- Recognizing common equine health concerns such as colic, lameness, dehydration, thrush, and rain rot
- Safe horse handling and basic groundwork
We're Looking For Someone Who Is
- Friendly and outgoing with guests
- Comfortable speaking to groups
- Dependable and punctual
- Calm under pressure
- Safety-minded
- At least 18 years old
Previous trail guiding experience is helpful but not required. Two horse-related references are preferred.
How to Apply
Please include a brief summary of your riding experience when applying. Your application should include:
- Your riding background
- Riding disciplines and years of experience
- General availability
- Distance from Simpsonville, KY
- Desired weekly hours
Recent riding videos are welcome but not required.
If you enjoy working outdoors, appreciate good horsemanship, and like helping people create memorable experiences, we'd love to hear from you.
Pay: From $16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
Salary : $16 - $17