About Lothlorien Therapeutic Riding Center

Founded in 1983, Lothlorien first operated out of a small two-horse barn on Maple Road in East Aurora. As the program grew, support from the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation made it possible to expand to our current property in 1986.

Taken from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, the name Lothlorien means “the Land of Flowering Dreams.” Our ten-acre land of flowering dreams is nestled in a peaceful, secluded setting just outside the Village of East Aurora in upstate New York. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by charming white picket fences and a perfect view of our beloved herd. The center features seven pastures, a 13-stall barn, a spacious outdoor sand riding arena, and the 170’ x 80’ insulated and heated Angel Arena, built in 2015 to ensure year-round comfort.

Our facilities are fully equipped to support riders with disabilities, featuring accessible mounting ramps, a wide range of adaptive equipment, and the partnership of our trusted, specially trained horses. With these resources, we meet the diverse needs of our riders while always prioritizing safety.

Programs at LTRC are led by knowledgeable instructors and supported by many dedicated volunteers, all dedicated to delivering the highest quality experiences for every participant. Families and caregivers are always welcome to watch lessons from the viewing area.

In 2025, LTRC became an affiliate of SASI, a not-for-profit provider of supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities based in nearby Elma. SASI also operates High Hurdles, an adaptive riding center in Sardinia. While sharing administrative resources with SASI, LTRC remains a separate not-for-profit corporation with its own volunteer board of directors. 

Our Board of Directors:

Karen Arrison, Wisdom Farm

Heidi Raphael, Beasley Media Group

Lauren Roberts, NBT Bank