Experience Magic and Discovery at Hogback Mountain Pony Rides
Long before the nearby wineries took root, Elizabeth “Liz” Lipovsky, owner of Hogback Mountain Pony Rides in rural Leesburg, was riding across what were then open cow fields, creating a lifelong bond with the land and the animals that call it home.
Today, after a decade of sharing that passion through experiences on her farm, Liz is proving that the best experiences are found at eye level.
One of the most common things Liz hears when a child finishes their ride is how surprisingly calm and docile the ponies are. Even seasoned horse rescuers are often astounded by the temperament of her herd.
“There is something special about the interaction when an animal is at a child’s level,” Liz shares. “For a toddler, a full-sized horse is a mountain. But a mini? That’s like riding a big, friendly dog.”
This approachable, low-to-the-ground philosophy, along with singing to soothe nerves or talking through big feelings in little bodies, is why she is one of very few people who can teach children as young as three or four how to ride. Liz’s focus on the humane aspect of pony rides results in a stress-free experience for both the child and animal.
“We have something special here with these ponies,” Liz adds. “They are good with small children who may scream or cry, even when they are on top. I want their first rides to be the best experience.”
While birthday parties and clinics remain staples, Hogback Mountain Pony Rides is trotting into a sophisticated new niche, the wedding industry.
As a registered vendor with Visit Loudoun, Liz is bringing something truly unique to Virginia occasions. Imagine a mystical unicorn walking down the aisle or rather than a flower girl, a flower pony. It’s a whimsical, high-end touch that few others in the region can provide. In addition, one of her ponies, Tater Tot, was a local celebrity who served as the mascot for Loudoun United. The professional soccer team nicknamed him Winger, and he even got his very own Farmer Trading Card courtesy of Loudoun Economic Development’s Loudoun Made, Loudoun Grown program.
Liz manages the business as a one-woman wrecking crew, handling everything by hand including hauling round bales, cleaning enclosures, and daily feedings, all while teaching full-time and serving as the primary caregiver for her father, who has Alzheimer’s. She even taken her ponies to visit the elderly clients at her father’s day program.
She sees and treats her animals like family. Many of her ponies are rescues that other facilities couldn’t manage. Her hardship cases find peace at Hogback because she prioritizes their well-being above all else. She shared that her love for animals reflects the love that her parents gave her.
While Hogback is a mobile-first business, bringing the magic directly to your doorstep, park, or venue, the farm is a regular participant on the Loudoun Farm Tour in both the spring and fall, allowing visitors to interact with and ride the ponies, right on the home grounds. Liz dreams of one day opening her childhood home for regular weekend clinics and classes. Until then, her mobile setup allows her to bridge the gap for local families who want their children to have that essential farm experience without leaving the neighborhood.
For those looking for a birthday party hero, a mascot for a local event, a reindeer for their Santa, or a unicorn for a fairytale wedding, Liz is ready to help. Her service is available year-round, customizable, and affordable.
To learn more about Hogback Mountain Pony Rides or to book your pony experience, please visit their website at https://hogbackmountainponyrides.com.