Sommer North EC  ·  Zion, IL

Where Horses Come
To Help Their People

A curriculum-based equestrian center where riders of all ages discover the transformative power of true partnership with horses — not just lessons, but a lifelong relationship.

All Ages Welcome
Hybrid Horsemanship
Zion, IL
Start Your Journey

Book Your Intro Lesson

Your first lesson is an $80 firsthand experience — the perfect way to meet our horses, explore our facility, and discover if Sommer North is the right fit for you and your family.

Tina Sommer with her horse

Founder & CEO

Tina Sommer

Meet Your Trainer

About Tina Sommer

"You don't need a bigger bit, you need a better relationship"

Tina Sommer is an accomplished and dedicated horse trainer who specializes in using Hybrid Horsemanship techniques to foster partnership and harmony between horses and humans.

With a deep-rooted passion for horses and an unwavering commitment to ongoing learning and personal growth, Tina has established herself as a respected figure in the equestrian community. Her philosophy goes beyond traditional riding lessons — she teaches students how to care for horses, interact with them, and truly understand how horses communicate.

Mission: To transform the relationship between horse and rider, creating a lasting bond that transcends the boundaries of traditional horsemanship.
Why Sommer North EC

More Than Riding Lessons

We offer a curriculum-based horsemanship program that gives students the ability to see their progress and a sense of accomplishment at every stage of their journey.

Hybrid Horsemanship

Our unique approach blends classical riding techniques with natural horsemanship principles, creating a more harmonious and effective partnership.

Curriculum-Based Program

Our structured curriculum lets students track their progress and celebrate achievements. You'll always know where you are and where you're headed.

All Ages & Skill Levels

From Tiny Riders (ages 2–6) to adult returners after decades away — there is no age limit. If you want to ride, we want to teach you.

Unmounted Horsemanship

We teach students how to care for horses, groom them, and understand their communication — creating a complete horseperson, not just a rider.

Nurturing Environment

Our barn is a refuge for anyone who loves horses. We foster a community where questions are welcomed, growth is celebrated, and every rider feels at home.

Summer Programs

Young Riders Summer Camp and Adult Summer Programs offer immersive equestrian experiences that deepen skills and forge lasting friendships.

Our Programs

Find Your Path

Tailored equestrian programs for every age and stage of life — because the love of horses knows no boundaries.

Child in Tiny Riders program receiving a beginner horse riding lesson at Sommer North EC, Zion IL
Ages 2–6

Tiny Riders

Our youngest horse lovers get a magical introduction to the equestrian world in a safe, nurturing environment designed just for them.

  • Access to 8 classes per month
  • Parents learn alongside their children
  • Unlock our custom curriculum
  • Fresh air, sunshine and fun included
Book Intro Lesson
Young rider on horseback with instructor during a Young Riders lesson at Sommer North EC
Ages 7–14

Young Riders

Perfect for the young horse enthusiast ready to develop real skills and build a meaningful relationship with horses.

  • Fully customizable program
  • Mounted & unmounted class options
  • Horsemanship classes at reduced fee
  • Access to Young Riders Summer Camp
Book Intro Lesson
Adult rider trotting a chestnut horse in the outdoor arena at Sommer North EC, Zion Illinois
Ages 18+

Adult Riders

There is no age limit. Whether you're brand new or returning after years away, our adult program meets you exactly where you are.

  • Fully customizable program
  • Horsemanship classes at reduced fee
  • Access to Adult Summer Program
  • Community of fellow horse-loving adults
Book Intro Lesson
Rider jumping a horse over a pole at Sommer North EC
Dark horse with curly mane in the barn at Sommer North EC
Young rider on horseback with instructor at Sommer North EC
Child receiving a beginner horse riding lesson at Sommer North EC
Choose Your Path

Membership Plans

Every membership includes unmounted horsemanship lessons, access to social events, and our private community. All plans are a 3-month minimum commitment.

Bronze

The perfect starting point

$375/month

3-month minimum · 60-day cancellation notice

  • 1 Horseback Riding Lesson per week
  • 1 Horsemanship Lesson per week
  • Access to all social events at the barn
  • Access to our private online community
Enroll in Bronze
Most Popular
Silver

For the dedicated rider

$650/month

3-month minimum · 60-day cancellation notice

  • 2 Horseback Riding Lessons per week
  • 1 Horsemanship Lesson per week
  • Priority scheduling for all lessons
  • Everything in Bronze
Enroll in Silver
Gold

The full equestrian experience

Custom

3-month minimum · 60-day cancellation notice

  • Fully customizable lesson schedule
  • Access to all Summer Programs
  • Personalized training plan with Tina
  • Everything in Silver
Enroll in Gold
What Families Say

Riders Who Call Us Home

"Tina's philosophy of teaching her students all about horses is a completely different model than just 'taking riding lessons.' She teaches students how to take care of horses, interact with them and learn how horses communicate with us two-legged people. Her love and experience with horses is both fun and contagious."

Susan Fischer

Student of Tina Sommer for 2+ years

"I've been riding for 7 years now, and I've never found a barn that aligns so strongly with my beliefs and treats their horses so well as Sommer North. The environment is nurturing and I am not afraid to ask questions. I could never say anything bad about this barn, or the people who run it!"

Gerri Sciarra

Rider, 7 years

"There is no horseback riding trainer I would rather ride with than Tina Sommer. I was searching for a barn community — a place where I could spend meaningful time with horses and learn how to care for and connect with them, not just ride them. This place is a refuge for any child or adult who loves horses."

Madison Mullen

Adult Rider, returned after 20-year hiatus

Common Questions

Before You Decide

Ready to Begin?

Start Your Equestrian
Journey Today

Book your $80 Intro Lesson and discover what it truly means to connect with a horse. No experience necessary — just a love for these incredible animals.

Book Your Intro Lesson — $80