We had a great horseback riding experience! Things went pretty smoothly with booking (we called to…read morereserve), parking, and even adjusting when we were running late. My partner and I did a private Eagle View ride, and on our horseback riding hike, a couple of the staff members chatted with us while guiding us along the trail. My partner was hoping that they'd share a little more about horses or the trail, but I didn't mind so much. The staff also helped us take photos. When we got back, the staff let us hang out with the other horses past our hour, and I think we stayed for another 20 minutes brushing horse manes and taking pictures.

To my travel crew's either excitement or dismay, I always insist on a horseback ride while on…read morevacation. I understand it can be challenging for trail groups when there's a mixed group like ours - one advanced, some intermediate, and the rest beginners - but Five Brooks made it so every single one of us had an enjoyable time! We chose the Salmon Creek 1.5 hour ride and had a blast with our guide, Jay. I was a little disappointed that we didn't get that close to the creek as I thought we would from other reviews and the description on the website, but maybe it was due to our group size (7 + guide) or our mixed levels of experience. We did get a few opportunities to trot, and the sights were gorgeous. I may have fallen in love with my horse, Cody, a beautiful palomino (which is saying something because I have a palomino of my own at home) but he was so responsive that I really enjoyed riding him. I have family in the area, so I'm already trying to plan my next trip so I can go ride with this group again!

Cloverleaf Ranch is a magical place! Our nine-year-old just returned from his second year of…read moresleep-away camp (He attended the day camp when he was younger.) and he has so many positive things to say. The counselors were fun and supportive. The activities were engaging. Thomas loved the food. This year he encouraged a friend from school to join him. That boy had a great time, and they both made new friends too. Thomas came back with greater confidence and displaying more independence too. We can't wait to get back the pictures he took with his disposable camera! What I love best, besides hearing the stories about him getting up early to care for the horses that he once found intimidating, was the call we received from Dawn mid-week. We weren't worried. We've had great experiences at Cloverleaf. We know the ratios of campers to counselors allows for attentive care. Still, the mid-week phone call telling us how his week was going just reinforced how much the staff really cares. For this reason, Cloverleaf will continue to be a Cremidis family tradition for many years to come. Next year, little brother will be old enough for residential camp and he's already making plans for how he'll spend his time.

I feel like parents should know the teen leaders they employ are from some summer study abroad…read more program and are boys sent here from other countries (New Zealand, Australia, etc.) and they aren't allowed to disclose their names (my daughter's camp leader was named "Cobra"). I didn't feel comfortable with this arrangement and am glad I didn't sign my daughter up for sleep-away camp. She enjoyed the day camp but the staff seemed more concerned with protecting themselves rather than allowing parents to protect their children. I was expecting some nice local horse riding girls to mentor her and instead had to leave her with boys who wouldn't tell me their names. She won't be back.

Went with my friend on a private Salmon Creek ride. It was quite lovely. Beautiful scenery and…read morethe weather was perfect. Jay was an engaging and attentive guide. He regularly checked in to see that we were comfortable with the pace (my friend is a beginner rider). The horses seem well cared for and were relaxed on the trail. Sophie, who accompanied us, was also knowledgeable and interactive. Thank you both for a most enjoyable ride. i would definitely recommend Five Brooks if you want to experience some lovely trails around Bodega Bay.

Just had a fantastic time with my granddaughters (2.5, 5.5, and 7) horseback riding on sweet,…read moregentle horses. The staff, Jay and T, were amazing with the girls; they provided clear instructions while making sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. Thanks for the wonderful time!!!

I've been taking lessons here for about 6 months and absolutely love it! Carol is incredibly…read morepatient and has lovely horses that can suit any skill level. I love being able to go ride every week- and the group lessons help you to meet other riders as well. Highly recommend!

Apple Creek is a great place take horse lessons for all ages. Carol has infinite patience and is…read morealways supportive and positive. All levels of riders can find a lesson horse that suits them from beginners to advanced riders. It is also a great place to board a horse, the horses get great care and fed 3x per day and live in a very clean environment.

Thank you Dominic for a wonderful ride! My husband and I did the private hour and a half ride in…read morejack London state park. We rode sunny and Annie, both horses were amazing and rescue horses. You can tell from the moment you arrive the horses are well taken care of and loved. For me, that is the most important thing I look for when trying to find a place to ride. We were lucky enough that we could trot our horses a little as we were the first ride out and no one was on the trail. You will be responsible for your own horse, and you are given clear direction on how to have an enjoyable ride before you leave the grounds. I felt very safe and comfortable out riding, and we will be repeat customers and can't wait to go riding again. Thank you!!!

Brought the family out to wine country for a long weekend to get away during the pandemic. We like…read moreto go horseback riding wherever we go and this place does not disappoint. At first I thought an hour and a half was not going to be enough time, but given the rigor of horseback riding up a steep incline with lots of switchbacks, it was perfect. Our guide was amazing, and the view was spectacular. The horses were very gentle and knew their way. Loved having two dogs along the trail with us, as well. I noticed that they are putting in a couple of tiny houses for people to stay on site. I intend to book one of those as soon as we can. Highly highly recommend.

Emeri Kitchell of Ijula Equestrian has set up an outstanding riding program at Jaz Creek in…read morePetaluma, CA! Emeri is such a knowledgeable instructor who knows horses and how to get the most of your time riding them. She does this with a gifted understanding of how to feel your way through to communicating gently, but clearly, with your horse. She has an extensive set of tools that bring horse and rider enjoying their time together. The skills that Emeri brings to Ijula Equestrian combine with her wonderful eye in her horse and pony selection. Each of them is a good-natured, hard-working, and comfortable ride. The horses seem to really want to work with the rider. I credit this to the environment and training regimen that Emeri has created at Ijula Equestrian. Besides being an articulate instructor who explains recommendations well to her clients, she is so warm and friendly all while being a consummately caring professional with a great sense of humor. In addition to the wonderful combination of Emeri Kitchel and the horses she has selected for us to enjoy, Ijula Equestrian at Jaz Creek offers outstanding facilities. My favorites are these: 1. Enormous indoor arena with exceptional footing 2. Large outdoor arena with a great variety of ground poles and jumps to match all levels with a variety of patterns, routines, and courses that allow Emeri to offer a tremendous variety in our lessons' activities. 3. Tack-up area indoors right next to the tack room with full supplies for grooming your horse or pony. Combining the qualities of this instructor, her horses, and Jaz Creek's facilities all under Emeri Kitchell's leadership, I cannot recommend Ijula Equestrian highly enough. It is for all these reasons that I always leave there feeling happy and energized.

From the owner: Ijula Equestrian is a premier training and lesson program operating out of Jaz Creek Inc. in Sonoma…read moreCounty. Our lessons offer an individualized experience with a focus on community and horsemanship.

I'm a lifelong horse-lover. I grew up riding and showing Saddlebred horses in Oklahoma. After…read morecollege and moving to California I found myself 8 years out of the saddle. I never really thought I could find a trainer or facility that compared to where I grew up riding. Then I found Brigitte Scholl and Monarch on the American Saddle Horse Association website in January of 2010. Monarch Stables is the best barn I could ever have imagined. The facility is beautiful, well-equipped, and serene. Most importantly, Brigitte Scholl, the owner and trainer is a true horse whisperer and a gifted riding instructor. She operates every aspect of Monarch Stables with passion and integrity. Every horse is cared for immaculately and in a manner uniquely suited to his/her personality. Every rider has Brigitte's undivided attention. If you're a veteran rider or a novice who's always wanted to give Saddleseat riding a shot, you will be equally welcomed. If your child has been bugging you for horseback riding lessons, go for it! In my opinion there's no better outlet: through horseback riding they can learn the subtleties of communication with both horses and people, the responsibility of caring for an animal, the self-confidence that comes from competing with true sportsmanship.

I've been so impressed with Monarch Stables. My 7 year old granddaughter started her initiation…read moreinto this wonderful world of horses last September. She had had the best experience one could have with the expertise, and extraordinary patience! of her trainer Cheyenne Cairns. The facilities are in a beautiful setting, and there are many options for riding - even in inclement weather! I am a complete novice to this sport, and everyone I've met have been very helpful and supportive. From my first visit in 2018, Brigitte Scholl has always been warm and patient with my questions and concerns. I highly recommend this facility for anyone, and especially for folks new to the sport. Thanks to all at Monarch Stables!