Sun State Riding Academy

09/03/2026

A peek at the instructor photo shoot! Thank you to Nikolina for the photos, we can’t wait to see the final product

08/07/2026

We’re loving the slightly cooler weather and moisture that this monsoon season is bringing!

07/06/2026

🌿 Meet Robin

At the heart of Sun State Equine Wellness is Robin Johnson, whose work combines emotional awareness, nature, and horse-human connection to create experiences that support grounding, reflection, and personal growth.

With more than 15 years of experience in mental health and equine-assisted learning, Robin brings a thoughtful and relationship-centered approach to every experience.

Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing more about Robin, our horses, and the unique ways horse-human connection can support wellbeing.

🐴 Have questions? Leave a comment or send us a message.

06/29/2026

🐴 What is Equine-Assisted Learning?

One of the most common questions we receive is whether participants ride the horses.

The answer is no.

Equine-Assisted Learning is a guided, ground-based experience that supports nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, personal growth, and connection through intentional interaction with horses.

🌿 Have questions? Leave a comment or send us a message to learn more.

06/23/2026

🌿 Sun State Riding Academy is growing. We're excited to introduce Sun State Equine Wellness.

Ground-based equine-assisted learning experiences designed to support connection, nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and personal growth.

Located in the heart of the Verde Valley, Sun State Equine Wellness invites participants to slow down, reflect, reconnect, and gain new insight through intentional interaction with horses in a peaceful and supportive environment. No riding experience is required.

As part of the Sun State family, this program expands our mission of fostering meaningful horse-human connections beyond traditional riding instruction.

Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing more about our experiences, our horses, and the people behind the program.

🌿 Curious about equine-assisted learning? Leave a comment or send us a message.

04/15/2026

We are proud to introduce our new Equine-Assisted Ground-Based Wellness Program at Sun State Riding Academy.

Nestled in the natural beauty of Verde Valley, just outside Sedona, this experience offers a peaceful, inspiring natural backdrop.

Connect with horses in a calm, supportive space to build confidence, reduce stress, and reconnect with yourself—guided by a knowledgeable facilitator with experience in equine-assisted wellness and human development.

Through intentional ground-based interaction, horses help us become more present, aware, and connected. Their sensitivity creates opportunities for reflection, emotional growth, mindfulness, and personal transformation.

We offer a variety of experiences ranging from structured equine-assisted learning sessions focused on personal development and skill-building, to open wellness experiences designed for reflection and meaningful connection with the horses.

Limited spots available.
📩 Message us to learn more or reserve your session.

At Sun State Riding Academy, we strive to empower students to tackle challenges and take on new experiences. Below you’ll find the information you need about our courses, our team, or our methodology. Can’t find what you’re looking for?

04/07/2026

Looking forward to an awesome show 🐎🌲

We are gearing up for Summer in Flagstaff 2026!
Just listing a few things to get excited about.....

🌲Thank you Sun State Riding Academy for their Sponsorship of the NEW Ground Poles Jumpers Division including a $100 Stake Class !

🌲 NEW $250 Pony Hunt 'N Go Derby

🌲 Friday Exhibitors Party with Greg & the Gang
from Off the Griddle !

🌲 NEW $200 Jr/Adult Jumper Team Challenge
sponsored by
Shari Jackson of Equine Balance & Bodywork

🌲$250 Non Pro Jumper Derby sponsored by
RTR Performance Horses

🌲$500 Gambler's Choice Sponsored by El Hay Guy

🌲 And OF COURSE we can't forget the infamous
Jumper Team Relay (YES Costumes!!!)
sponsored by Dan & the Team at Greenway Saddlery!!

Some details to work out before we go to print with the Show Premium, but we are almost ready!
There are still a few Divisions & Classes available for those who would like to help with sponsorship support, contact us at [email protected] to help make the 2026 Show the Best One Yet !

03/29/2026

We’re excited to announce a truly unique wellness experience here at Sun State Riding Academy.

Introducing our new Equine-Assisted, Ground-Based Wellness Program — no riding involved or experience needed.

Set in the stunning Verde Valley, Arizona, just minutes from Sedona, this experience offers a peaceful, inspiring natural backdrop.

Connect with horses in a calm, supportive space to build confidence, reduce stress, and reconnect with yourself — guided by a highly qualified facilitator with rare expertise in equine-assisted wellness. This is a unique opportunity to learn from someone deeply experienced in both horses and human development.

Limited spots available
📩 Message us to learn more