My son (8, but almost 9) was excited to ride a horse at Fort Wilderness, but read kids must be 9. I looked up for ponies and just for under 48”. He is 54”. Is he able to still ride a horse since he is tall/mature enough?

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Answer 1

Hi there, Rachel! Welcome to planDisney!

Gawrsh! Your trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth is just a few months away. It makes my planning heart happy to see you squaring away some plans and ideas ahead of time! This will allow you to let loose and enjoy the magic around you during your vacation.

Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort is the epitome of rugged magic! With a woodsy feel and a hint of pixie dust, this Disney Resort Hotel has been helping make dreams come true for a long time! I understand that your son's most recent dream is to ride a horse or pony during your visit. Here's what I've uncovered.

After speaking with a Cast Member over at the Walt Disney World Resort, I was able to confirm that the ages are strictly adhered to when it comes to these adventures. Regardless of past experience, height or maturity level, Guests must be 9-years old to participate in the Horseback Trail Riding. Additionally, Guests must meet the listed criteria for the Pony Rides as well, so if your son is over 48 inches, he will not be able to participate. It looks like he falls just between these two experiences, but it will be something for him to look forward to once he turns 9 or on your next trip!

I'm so sorry to deliver not-so-magical news to you today, Rachel. While we may not be able to make this specific dream come true, maybe there is a new dream he'd be interested in pursuing! Though it is not the same as riding on the back of one of these majestic creatures, a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride is a pretty great alternative. For 25 minutes, your party will take the scenic route, being pulled by a horse in their very own royal vehicle!

Additionally, you can stop by Tri-Circle-D Ranch to see the home of the horses and ponies. I've been there myself and it is an absolutely stunning barn! Even just a walk-through to see the animals and their living quarters is a really fun experience for kids and adults alike.

Here's to your magical vacation, Rachel. I'm sure your little guy will have an exceptional vacation because he has a parent like you!

Have a magical day,

Ashley

My son (8, but almost 9) was excited to ride a horse at Fort Wilderness, but read kids must be 9. I looked up for ponies and just for under 48”. He is 54”. Is he able to still ride a horse since he is tall/mature enough?

Meet the Panelist: Ashley, New Jersey

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My son (8, but almost 9) was excited to ride a horse at Fort Wilderness, but read kids must be 9. I looked up for ponies and just for under 48”. He is 54”. Is he able to still ride a horse since he is tall/mature enough?”

Meet the Panelist: Ashley, New Jersey

Related Links

Thank a Panelist

Share a message of thanks with the knowledgeable panelist who provided a personalized answer to your Disney vacation question.

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Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

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My son (8, but almost 9) was excited to ride a horse at Fort Wilderness, but read kids must be 9. I looked up for ponies and just for under 48”. He is 54”. Is he able to still ride a horse since he is tall/mature enough?