Hunt With Us!

We were all new to this once! Joining your first hunt is exciting (and a bit nerve-wracking), and we want you to feel confident and prepared.

Hunting Checklist

Arrival & Check-In

Arrive at least 1-hour early so you have time to park, tack up, and get settled. Ask one of our members to introduce you to the Huntswoman and/or Hunt Secretary. Be mounted and ready to ride at least 10 minutes before the official casting time.

What to Wear

Ratcatcher attire is perfectly acceptable for guests and first-time riders but most of all we want you to feel comfortable and be safe. A clean horse, polished tack, and conservative attire are all that’s needed to show respect for our longstanding sport. Wear neutrals, tie your hair back neatly, and most importantly, dress for comfort based on the weather.

Meeting the Hounds

You’ll meet the hounds from a respectful distance and learn a bit about how they work. Please don’t call to or pet them during the hunt though, as they’re focused and working.

Hunt Etiquette Basics

When you choose your flight, you will be placed with a Field Leader who will guide you throughout the day. They’ll explain the pace, the territory, and what to do if hounds are speaking or staff are passing through. If you are to remember one thing: always give staff and hounds the right of way. Otherwise, stay quiet when hounds are working and follow the Field Leader at all times.

Choosing Your Pace

Every hunt is different. Some days are fast and thrilling; others are slower while hounds work out a line. Choose a flight based on your riding ability and comfort level. You are always permitted to drop back to a slower flight or move up to a faster flight during the hunt with the permission of your Flight Leader.

Post-Hunt Breakfast or Tailgate

Hunting always concludes with a tailgate or breakfast gathering. Come make some friends and ask questions about the days hunt.

Choosing Your Pace

  • First Flight

    Our first flight rides closest to the Huntsman and hounds, keeping pace across open fields and over jumps. This group is ideal for experienced riders and confident horses who enjoy the thrill of being in the middle of the action.

  • Second Flight

    The second flight follows at a steady, controlled pace, positioned just behind the first flight. Riders should be comfortable walking, trotting, and cantering across open fields. This flight is ideal for riders with solid skills who prefer not to jump.

  • Third Flight

    The third flight, known as hilltoppers, follows at a relaxed, non-jumping pace and must be comfortable walking and trotting in open fields. This flight is perfect for new riders, green horses, or anyone who prefers a more leisurely experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Capping is paying a one-day fee of $50 to ride with the hunt as a guest. It allows non-members to join the field without committing to a full season membership.

    Please contact the Hunt Secretary for the current fixture card and directions to the meet location. Fees go toward supporting our hounds.

  • No, but you should be able to comfortably walk, trot, canter, and control your horse outside the ring. Hilltoppers provide a slower, non-jumping field for newer riders.

  • No worries! Every horse and rider has to start somewhere. Summer mounted hound exercises and early-season cubbing provide relaxed, low-pressure opportunities to introduce your horse to fox chasing.

    At every hunt, there is also a non-jumping, slower group called Third Flight or Hilltoppers. This group follows the faster, jumping field at a more leisurely pace, making it an ideal setting for young horses or new riders to experience the sport safely and confidently.

  • Yes. All guests must sign a liability waiver before hunting, submit their negative Coggin’s, and acknowledge the hunt’s safety rules.

    All mounted hunters are encouraged to purchase a Virginia Special Fox Hunting License and a National Forest Permit.

    Carry proof of your license either on your phone or on your person in case you are stopped by a DWR Officer.

  • Yes, the more the merrier! But all riding guests must be registered and pay the capping fee. If you are bringing a non-riding guest contact the Hunt Secretary to confirm arrangements on having them car follow.