What Size Works Best for Your New Horse Arena?
One of the first questions you might ask when planning a new horse arena is, “What size do I really need?” This detail is more important than it might seem. The size of your arena can shape how you train, ride, and care for your horses every day. At BCG Builders in Idaho, we’ve worked with many horse owners to design arenas that suit a variety of needs. Whether you’re a dedicated competitor or a casual rider, choosing the right dimensions will help you get the most out of your investment.
One popular size we often recommend is 90x120 feet. This design strikes a nice balance: it’s big enough for most daily training sessions, riding lessons, and even small gatherings, but it won’t strain your budget too much. If you need to watch your costs or have limited space, you might consider an 80x100 arena. That size still offers enough room for light riding, groundwork, and smaller clinics. On the other hand, if you plan on speed events like barrel racing or roping, something larger—such as 100x200—might be the better choice. A bigger arena gives your horses extra space to move and helps keep riders safe when they’re making quick turns or riding at high speeds.
Another thing to think about is how many horses or riders will be using the arena at once. If you often ride with friends, teach lessons, or host group clinics, having more space can prevent crowding. It also lowers the risk of accidents and creates a more comfortable environment for both people and horses. Spend some time considering how you want to use your arena, both now and in the future. You don’t want to build something too small if you plan on growing your program or adding more horses in a few years.
Of course, budget plays a big role in deciding how large you can go. Bigger arenas use more materials and require more labor, which drives up costs. Even so, it might pay off in the long run if you invest in extra space up front, rather than having to expand later. Think about how important it is to have plenty of room for your preferred riding style, whether that means practicing dressage tests, jumping courses, or hosting small competitions.
Don’t forget to factor in things like footing and drainage, too. High-quality footing can help protect your horse’s legs, reduce injuries, and keep them comfortable during workouts. Drainage is also critical—especially here in Idaho, where the weather can change quickly. A well-draining arena will keep your riding surface drier and safer, allowing you to ride more often throughout the year. Many owners also consider adding a partial enclosure or roof to block the wind or snow, and lighting can make a world of difference during those long, dark winter evenings or early-morning sessions.
It’s also important to plan your gate placements and fencing carefully. You might want a wide gate so you can bring tractors in for maintenance. If you expect to host shows or clinics, it’s a good idea to have a seating area or viewing spot for visitors. A well-thought-out design can make your arena easier to use and safer for both horses and riders, while also adding value if you ever decide to sell your property.
At BCG Builders, we believe in creating arenas that meet the real-world needs of Idaho’s horse community. We bring years of experience to every project, which means you can trust us to design and build an arena that will last for years to come. If you’re still on the fence about which size or features are best for you, our team is here to help. We’ll guide you from the first design sketches all the way to the final build, making sure every detail is handled with care.
When you’re ready to start planning, contact BCG Builders in Idaho for a consultation. We’ll take the time to learn about your riding goals, discuss your budget, and help you choose the perfect size for your new arena. With our expertise and your vision, we can create a space that you—and your horses—will love for many years to come.
Start Your Arena Journey Today
Building a custom horse arena is a major decision, and BCG Builders wants to make the process smooth and enjoyable. We’re here to help you design a riding space that matches your style, discipline, and budget. Whether you dream of a cozy practice arena or a large competition space, our team is ready to turn your ideas into a reality. If you’re in New Plymouth, Idaho—or the surrounding areas—reach out to us today and let’s start planning your dream arena.
Contact BCG Builders for Custom Horse Arenas
At BCG Builders, we specialize in creating horse arenas that stand up to Idaho’s changing seasons. From roping arenas to dressage rings, we pay attention to every detail—like proper footing, fencing, and drainage—so you can enjoy safe and reliable riding all year long. If you need additional construction work on your property, such as a barn or a run-in shed, we’ve got you covered. Simply contact us to talk about your vision, and we’ll show you how our expertise can make it happen.
Remodeling or Expanding? We Can Help
Already have an arena but need an upgrade? Maybe you’d like to widen the arena to accommodate a new riding discipline or improve footing to keep your horse comfortable and sound. Whatever the goal, our team has years of experience in renovations, expansions, and other custom projects. We know that every rider’s needs are different, so we’ll work closely with you to deliver a space you’ll love.
Your Trusted Builder in Idaho and Eastern Oregon
The BCG Builders team has deep roots in the local community and understands the challenges and rewards of owning horses in this region. Our goal is to be your go-to source for building and remodeling projects—big or small. With a focus on quality, safety, and honest communication, we aim to exceed your expectations every step of the way.
If you’re looking for a builder that values your input and respects your budget, give us a call. We’ll be happy to answer any questions and guide you through the planning process. After all, creating the perfect horse arena is more than just a construction project—it’s about supporting the passion you share with your horses.
Stay in Touch
For more pictures of our work and the latest updates, be sure to visit our Instagram page. You’ll find examples of our arenas, barns, and other completed projects, so you can see for yourself the quality and care that goes into everything we do.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t wait any longer to bring your dream arena to life.
Contact BCG Builders today, and let’s talk about how we can design and build the perfect space for you and your horses. We look forward to being part of your horse arena journey in New Plymouth, Idaho, and the surrounding areas.