Good morning, I wanted to give a big thank you to A Step Above Stables and Sheli Rose at Carolina Ridge Equestrian Center. We all love this horse. We appreciate the honesty and flexibility the stable and our horse trainer provided. I will share our true experience in acquiring this lovely horse. Why we got this horse: Our father, who grew up on his family farm, always asked Santa for a horse for Christmas. He would run out to the barn every Christmas morning looking for his horse, but alas there was never a horse. When my husband and I took over the family farm, we got to hear all the lost stories about our father's farming days and specifically about the Christmas horse that never came. We spoke with our mother and Sheli Rose (our friend/horse trainer), and we all conspired and agreed to a wonderful Christmas surprise. After 67 years of waiting, our father would get his Christmas wish. The testament: A Step Above Stables assessment of their horses' temperaments are accurate. I want to say upfront, "NO HORSE IS PERFECT". This was our first exposure to this stable and we were a little weary. Sheli, my husband, and I ventured to the stable to look at horses with temperaments suited to seniors. True to the assessment, we looked at a temperament 1 horse, Snickers an 8 y/o gelding, and found it accurate. In our initial inspections of Snickers, he did have a few bites on his side (from a mal-tempered mare), needed a bit of weight (also because of the mal-tempered mare), and had a little bit of a snotty nose. We were told they had a little cold running around one of their pastures, which Snickers was in. They were treating the issue. The other horses that were pulled out didn't any signs of a cold and the barn and area were very clean. Sheli was not concerned about the running nose or bites, she was concerned about Snickers weight. Upon discussion, the staff assured us they would stall, monitor, and supplement him to put some weight on him. During my test ride, I was flailing, yelling, bumping my feet, legs, hands, and arms in abnormal places on him, shaking the reins, tested easy and rough reining, sliding off the butt, EVERYTHING I could think of that a child or new rider might do. My actions didn't elicit any reaction. The stable has dogs and chickens running around the horses, between their legs, Snickers didn't even blink at them. Snickers was accustomed to run in the home stretch of the demonstration; however, a simple whoa and he walked nicely. Sheli hopped on and took Snickers off trail, put him in tight tree positions, backed him up to bump a tree, he did as asked with only slightly worried ears with the tree bump, but nothing else. My husband rode Snickers normally with no issues. After our internal discussion, we decided he was the one. We came back a few weeks later to pick him up. He had gained weight, his bites were healing and his nasal discharge was a better color. All in all, we agreed he was fit to come home. He is NOT great in trailers (wasn't something we asked the stables about), if your new horse will be traveling a lot, I would suggest a 10-minute demonstration standing tied in a trailer. To keep Snickers a secret, Sheli Rose agreed to boarding him at her place, the Carolina Ridge Equestrian Center, we rested him and started medicine for the cold, after few days he was started in round pen and on our trails, he is an absolute gem. He is brave, a leader and a follower on trails. He crosses creeks and roads with ease. He is a bit prancy with interstate traffic coming from behind, but he is better every time. We have found that he is a bit food "aggressive", we assume because of being pushed away from food by the bad-tempered mare at the stable. He is getting better every day, as we have changed how we feed him and are training him to our presence during food time. He has improved greatly as we now pet him during feeding. The main event, Christmas Day: A big thanks to Sheli Rose, as she and her daughter played a huge part in pulling this Christmas surprise off. Early Christmas day, Sheli and her kids brought Snickers home to our farm, wrapped him up with bows and ribbons and waited in the barn. We brought our parents over for breakfast (just an FYI, we didn't starve our friends, we made them breakfast before our parents arrived). After breakfast, there was a letter from Santa addressed to our father on the fireplace mantle. Upon reading, our father was overcome with surprise, shock, disbelief, and certainly other overwhelming emotions, we all herded out of the house and towards the barn, where Snickers was decorated like the best Christmas present ever, standing in the middle of the barn waiting for his new rider. After everything settled down, we all saddled up and went on a Christmas trail ride. It was magical. This will be the most memorable Christmas for any of us and A Step Above Stables and Carolina Ridge Equestrian Center gave us this opportunity. Thank you all so much. read more

I normally do not involve myself in online drama, but was compelled to respond to some slanderous statements made about this establishment. I visited A Step Above Stables in July with the intent to purchase two horses. I flew from Ohio to Georgia, based on the reputation of this establishment and specifically, the return policy. Curtis was beyond friendly from the beginning and I can honestly say that for about 6 weeks I spoke with him more than I spoke with my own brother. He was attentive, receptive and courteous as he tried to find the perfect horses for me. He asked intelligent questions and was very upfront with me regarding his perceived appropriateness of some horses he had for sale. Upon visiting Blairsville, everywhere we went, the moment I mentioned buying a horse, everyone immediately knew I was there to see Curtis and had nothing but good things to say about him - and I assure you I asked. I was never misled, and in fact, he actually steered me AWAY from several horses I was interested in because he knew that they would NOT work out for me. He is not simply trying to sell horses and understands that happy customers are return customers. He honored his return policy without question when one of the mares I chose didn't work out and within 2 weeks she had been returned to Georgia. He is currently looking for the ideal replacement for me. Trail horses are going to show some wear and tear in their hooves, but by no means were ANY of the horses I saw or rode lame. All that was required was a quick filing by the farrier and my mare was just fine. I know there are many "horse traders" out there and I've previously been taken by one, but in my heart of hearts, I would not put Curtis in that category. It is unfortunate that expectations may not have been met completely, but I assure you that if you are unhappy with a selection from A Step Above, they will be happy to take the horse back and find one that is a better fit. How can that practice be profitable for a horse trader? If the only priority was to sell horses, it would not make much sense to offer to take them back. read more

Truth being told the day I met my horse I wasn't even looking for a horse for me, I was looking with my girlfriend for her. Curtis at "A Step Above Stables" was super easy going and laid back and all around a gentleman. He was polite to my girlfriend and offered to show her any horse she wanted. While I waited I saw a very handsome half-draft and went to pet him. He was taken care of, younger (6), and very playful. I would say my horse actually picked me. When I came around the second time to pick up my girlfriend's horse, there my horse was again. He was happy to see my and I played with him a little bit while my girlfriend filled out her purchase agreement. Talking to Curtis at "A Step Above Stables" he told me about my horse, the staff told me how fond of him they were, and even how he liked to be scratched. I would say based on the immediate knowledge of the staff and Curtis on my horse that they were very in tune with their herd as individuals and not like some sellers that see them as "stock" or a payday. Between Curtis and his staffs professionalism, knowledge, and old-world manners (where their word is their bond) I couldn't help but buy my horse on the spot. Throughout the guarantee period Curtis and staff were helpful and always available on any questions I have. I was nervous at first because there are so many "used car salesman" these days but I can honestly say Curtis at "A Step Above Stables" isn't one of them. He's friendly, a man of his word, and cares about the horses he places into people's lives. I can say I don't regret one penny I spent on my horse and would definitely recommend buying from "A Step Above Stables". read more

I'll be honest and say I had several people tell me not to buy from Curtis, but I really didn't want to do the private route when buying a horse. I've done that before and it was not pleasant. No matter who you buy a horse from, there are unknowns, but being able to look at several horses at once and Curtis's guarantee gave me some confidence to go visit the farm. I bought a gelding from him at the end of July and kept in touch with Curtis as we hit some bumps in the road with this gelding. In the end, I believe he had an old injury that flared up once we started working him regularly and he would probably only be good for walking, nothing faster. I told Curtis what was happening and he suggested we swap out horses. I was already very attached to this gelding and had reservations about sending him back, worried about what might happen to him, but Curtis was the first to bring it up in our phone call about how he'd find him a nice home as a pasture pet which I greatly appreciated. I sent the gelding back and also gave Curtis my laundry list of "wants" for my replacement horse. About a month later, he reached out about a horse he had available and she has been wonderful. Curtis has checked in on us several times to make sure everyone is doing well and is happy. In spite of having to return the gelding, I think it's important to note that if I'd bought that horse from a private seller I would have been shit out of luck and out of money. Curtis stood by his word and worked with me to make it right. I really appreciate all of his help and guidance in this process. read more

Recently purchased a horse from A Step Above Stables and could not be happier! We spoke in detail about what I was looking for in a horse. I had inquired about two different horses but after much discussion Curtis suggested a third horse that he felt would be better suited for me. He sent me several additional videos, communicated with me quickly with any questions that came up, checked in with me several times during the 30 day trial period. "John Wayne", renamed Irish Luck, is the sweetest horse. He has adapted to life in the city, great with the kids and I am looking forward to many trail rides with this new member of our family. I will be a repeat customer in the future. If you are looking for a new horse, try A Step Above, if you discuss in detail what you need, they will match you to the right horse! read more

My family has had the best time riding the trails at A Step Above Stables. What sets this establishment apart from others is that you ride with the group you came with. You are not sent out with people you don't know, and separated from your family and friends. This really makes the experience so much more pleasant. The horses are great and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. My family does not have a great deal of experience riding horses, but we are always matched with great horses and have been given instructions on how to control the horses. There is a wonderful family atmosphere at A Step Above Stables, and though we live in Dallas Ga, we prefer to travel the distance to A Step Above Stables because of the overall superior riding experience and family friendly atmosphere we have found there. read more

I bought my horse Mojo from A step Above and I must tell you he is the best horse! I am a retired dressage rider and professional equestrian instructor, and I wanted a horse, a nice trail horse to do it completely different that i ever had done it before and I came upon A step Above, well it was the smoothest transition I have ever had in all my years of horses, and I have bought many horses not only for me but for my clients as well. I literally bought Mojo sight unseen and he was everything Curtis said he was. Curtis answered every question immediately and sent me every video I asked for, and I got the most adorable safe trail horse who isn't doing so bad in the ring either, he is so solid and the same whether he's been ridden everyday or not ridden in a month! I highly recommend this business ! read more

We had an absolutely outstanding experience with A Step Above Stables. The entire process was professional and highly efficient, but the real differentiator was Curtis. We tasked him with finding multiple horses to meet a specialized, demanding need, and his dedication to compatibility was unmatched. He utilized his deep knowledge to identify horses that perfectly fit our specific requirements for temperament, training, and soundness. Curtis's insistence on finding the right horses gave me complete confidence in our significant purchase. I am so pleased that I have authorized Curtis to give my phone number to any serious prospective buyers so I can personally attest to his commitment and success. Thank you, Curtis! read more

We just wanted to thank Curtis and his team at A Step Above Stables for helping us in our search for the perfect horses. After reading all of his many reviews from lots of satisfied customers, we decided to go to him when we were ready to buy and we are so glad that we did! He and his team were very helpful and patient and never rushed us while we were making our decisions about which horses were right for us. He also arranged a transport service to have the horses delivered that we were very pleased with. Horses arrived in perfect condition and settled right in. Thanks again for making our search a great experience, we will definitely go back when we're ready for more! Jerome and Lynn Stinson read more

I can't say enough great things about Curtis and his staff. Everything they promised they kept their word, demonstrating reliability and trustworthiness. I purchased a horse in 2019 and she was not a fit for me. This was 100% on me not on them as they warned me might not be, I was caught up in her beauty. Turned out they were correct and she was not. Without hesitation they welcomed her back and continued on the search with me for my perfect partner. A few months later the perfect match, River, he is everything I have dreamed of and than some. I am so grateful for their patience and time and for standing by their word. Thank you so much, ever so grateful Vicki and River. read more

I just purchased a new horse this week from A Step Above Stables. It's only been a couple of days and so far so good. My mare loves her new friend! It was easy to get what I was looking for. I was shown several horses and tried each one out. Curtis and his staff were very friendly and helpful. I feel like I got a good one! He made sure he was shod before delivering him as well. This was a refreshing transaction as I have purchased horses before and ended up getting "stuck" with something other than what I was told I was getting. This place guarantees their horses which is something I have never seen! I would highly recommend buying a horse here. read more

My boyfriend and are went on a lovely trail ride. I am an experienced rider but it was his first time on horseback. The owner was very helpful in directing us to the stables and greeted us warmly. The staff were all very friendly and both Curtis( the owner) and CB ( the guide for the trail) were very helpful and reassuring to my boyfriend. There was good instruction for him and respect for me as a comfortable rider. Because of his newbie status- we did the one hour walk- trot trail ride. The ride was pretty. At the end, CB offered to take our pictures and then we were on our way. I would recommend this stable without hesitation. read more

We purchased a Gypsy Vanner from Curtis in May 2024 and are so happy with our boy. I'm in my 60's and needed a safe and predictable horse. Oliver has a wonderful temperament. He is smart, fun and gets along great with our other two horses. He is absolutely stunning and very healthy. Our Vet gave him a top score. The entire purchase and delivery process was seamless. We are in Ohio and purchased Oliver sight unseen. Curtis completely delivered. We will definitely go Back to Curtis for any future horses. Highly recommend read more

I am with the Mobile Police Department Mounted Unit. From the very first contact with Curtis, he was nothing but helpful and accommodating. As one probably already knows, trying to purchase anything through the government is a tedious process. Curtis was extremely patient with us and kept his word throughout. We purchased a draft cross to be used a mounted patrol horse and could not be happier with him. I highly recommend A Step Above Stables for mounted work or any other discipline. read more

Curtis and his team are truly phenomenal. I bought a horse and after several weeks, we just weren't clicking as horse and rider. Which is okay, it happens. He was still a lovely horse. Curtis took him back and swapped him out for another horse that was a better fit. Curtis communicated well and never made me feel like a bother. He was always happy to help. I greatly appreciate all of his time and the effort he put in to make sure I was taken care of! read more

Best horse back riding experience ever! Great prices and super nice family giving the private guided rides. Brandon was our guide and he was very personable and fun the whole time. Beautiful scenery and the horses were very gentle and well trained. Would definitely recommend to all ages and all levels of experience. We will definitely come back when we're in the area again. read more

Curtis and his crew at Step Above Stables are certainly a jewel in the beautiful mountains of Georgia. My family purchased three horses from Curtis after extensive searching throughout the southeast. Kim and Curtis spent innumerable hours with us on the phone and in person, helping us choose the perfect horses. Their patience and friendliness is unsurpassed! read more

My family and I visited this stable during our spring break for a trail ride. I had 4 first time riders under the age of 12 as well as my dad who is 60. The staff was very friendly and accommodating for our group and the horses were fantastic. I highly recommend making a stop here while in the area. read more

Curtis is great to work with! After a couple quick conversations he was able to find exactly the horse I was looking for. The horse he found for me is level-headed and in your pocket, he fits in great with the rest of my herd. I'll definitely work with Curtis next time I'm looking for a new horse! read more