Landess Witmer

Landess Witmer was riding horses before she took her first steps, communicating with horses before she said her first words. Ho-Ho, Landess’ first pony, taught her dedication, respect, and hard work. The victories, as well as the falls, shaped her character, and she came out of childhood not only a better rider, but a better person. Although she eventually outgrew Ho-Ho, the many horses she partnered with over the years, further ingrained her passion for horses.

Landess had always dreamed of owning her own farm where children could learn from horses as she had. She believes there is an unspoken word that is communicated between horse and rider and wanted to offer a safe, quiet place to become one with an equine best friend.

When the opportunity presented itself to purchase the Historic Silver Circle Ranch from past owner and founder Warren Nelson, she jumped at the chance to preserve what the former owners had intended for the land. Her dreams of providing a safe environment for children to learn to ride, while also protecting the land, became a reality. Landess has invested her time and love into the property to restore and improve its functionality. As she built her dream, it evolved. Her new ambition is to ensure riding opportunities are available to children for generations to come. 

For Landess, seeing a young rider sit in the saddle for the first time or seeing an advanced student who put in time and effort finding success, is what makes all the hard work worth it.

While Landess was born in Virginia, she has called Northern Nevada her only home for more than 25 years. Nevada is her home now, the place where she rides. The place where she shares her passion with her friends and family. The place she wants to see thrive more than anything in the world.