Great trainers and location. I love working with the horses! It has had hugely positive influence…read moreon my mental health.

We cannot say enough wonderful things about Maaike. My daughter has been training with her for a…read morefew years and has grown immensely in both confidence and horsemanship. She now rides Western, English, and is even jumping courses. Maaike is consistently positive and encouraging, with a deep understanding of new riders. She ensures that each rider progresses at their own pace, making the entire experience enjoyable and supportive.

I've known the trainers Cassandra and Leah at Five Star for many years and have the utmost respect…read morefor them. They are incredibly kind, genuine, and motivated and have a true passion for horses and guiding their students to success. Great trainers and great people! They are at a beautiful location that has spacious turnout along with expansive riding arenas. If you're looking for a top notch hunter/jumper program, this is it.

Sent a message, left a voicemail, and haven't heard from…read morethem after days. Disappointing to see discrimination against customers in California. UPDATE: As you can see below, the owner reached out 6 months after my review, claiming that they didn't receive my message. I still have their 2450 number recorded on my phone. What a disappointing series of decisions in customer relations.

I had the opportunity to take my daughter and her friends to Pereira Ranch for a bday lesson with…read moretrainers Sara and Rachel. They were AWESOME!!! So friendly, talkative, provided so much information regarding the behaviors of horses and overall provided a GREAT experience! The facility was well maintained and the horses were all well behaved. I would highly recommend this ranch

One of the better boarding ranches I've been to. Friendly, helpful staff that goes out of their…read moreway to be helpful. Trails into the Mt Diablo foothills are scenic and take you to great views of the surrounding area. The arenas and round pens are well maintained and free of hazards. Storage for Tack and stuff is available. A large animal vet lives nearby and is available plus a clinic for shots and deworming is scheduled about every six months.

Words cannot describe how amazing Julie is as a riding instructor. Her teaching style is tailored…read moreto each rider; there's no set deadline or timing. That's what I loved most about her program-- she truly personalizes her lessons to fit your progress. One of her best skills is that she is acutely in tune with your form, comfort level, and confidence. She is so good at understanding how the human body interacts with the horse so when you're learning the fundamentals, you're learning it from an almost anatomical perspective. I originally started out at a different equestrian center but the instructor there made me feel anxious and unsure every time. I carried a lot of that over to Julie's lessons where I had to unlearn a lot of bad habits. In my almost year of riding under her guidance, I've learned proper techniques and gained back my confidence. Julie has the innate ability to make you feel safe and secure when riding. I love that she teaches to build confidence so you can master the technical skills. If you are ever thinking about horseback riding but scared to try it, get a lesson with Julie. An instructor like her is one of a kind.

I've been a client of Julie's for over 7 years and would recommend it to anyone! Julie teaches her…read moreriders in a safe and effective way while customizing each lesson to you and your horse. She is more then willing to help with special needs and lives on the property, so your horses are never out of her care. I have a crazy schedule and she is always able to fit my lessons in - even if they're at 8pm. Not to mention Creek Hill is a drama free, fun barn - something that is hard to find in the equestrian world!! A true hidden gem!

Me and my gf had an amazing experience horseback riding with the help of Kiera and Katie, guiding…read moreus through and making sure we are comfortable and safe. I had a wonderful time with Dozer! I highly recommend trying this experience as a beginner like me :))

Katie and Kiera were awesome! Beautiful experience and lovely setting. Highly recommendread more

Denize- Busy lady that knows her stuff! She's knowledgable in all aspects of horse lease,…read morepurchase, training, health and show circuit. I love that the trainers really give feedback throughout the session. The horses are quality horses that are looked after and loved. We could really tell the difference after we rode elsewhere for two years, this is geared for a different level than where we started- local vs A rated shows in quality barn, training and horses. The riders are welcoming and encouraging. The barn has both covered and open arenas. The barn hands are really very nice and Diligent at their job. We will stay for the long haul!

Round Valley Regional Preserve is a 5/5 gem tucked along the eastern edge of the Mount Diablo…read morefoothills. Marsh Creek runs right by the parking area, setting the tone for a peaceful start. The loop options strike a nice balance, not too tough, but enough variation to keep it interesting. Wildlife is part of the experience. You'll likely see cattle grazing, and if you're lucky, maybe a bobcat or a red-shouldered or red-tailed hawk overhead. Just plan ahead in summer. It heats up fast, so bring plenty of water. Simple, scenic, and quietly one of the best spots around.

This is really more of a 4.5 star hike, as any hiking spot I'm inclined to give 4+ stars because…read moreit's important to incorporate regional and state parks in society! Outdoor recreation is so important, and I feel lucky that we have so many regional parks in the East Bay. Round Valley has a few different trails ranging in difficulty. There isn't much shade, so Summer hikes probably aren't ideal on hot days, but these hills are absolutely beautiful February through April, after a little rainfall. Even in Summer, the hills are still fairly pretty and offer decent views as well as a great workout. There is plenty of wildlife - I've seen a lot of deer at this park over the years (and rattle snakes!). Free parking and a lots of it! I would definitely recommend this hike to anyone in the area.

I'm so glad I made the decision to bring my horse to Vanguard Eventing after they moved to Five…read moreStar Stables. I own a 6 year old off-the-track Thoroughbred, and since he's been with Dani and Joe, he's become a different horse. He was anxious and reactive at our old barn, but here, he's settled down into a gentle packer that is a joy to be around. Dani and Joe are patient and kind in their training, and they understand the needs of a young horse. Danielle and Ky also provide wonderful daily care to your horses -- I don't feel like I need to worry about whether or not my horse will get his feed or supplements when I'm not there, they care as much as I do! We recently had an emergency situation with my horse and Joe and several other members of the Vanguard team stepped up to help my horse while I drove up to meet the vet. I felt truly supported by a family, and I am eternally grateful for them. The facility at Five Star is also gorgeous, well-kept and has plenty of space for everyone. It's always peaceful, never overly busy and you'll never have a hard time finding space to ride with 3 beautiful arenas.

As far as I'm concerned, Joe and Danielle are as good as it gets when it comes to training and…read moreequine knowledge in general. I rode as a kid but stopped riding for a long long time. I'm so glad I found them when I decided to start riding again! They have great school horses and don't pressure you to buy a horse (even though I eventually did thanks to them finding me the perfect horse). They have definitely pushed me to be a better rider each lesson but they are patient and teach to every level. Plus they are flexible, reasonably priced, and fun to be around!! They have literally changed my life In so many positive ways. Stop daydreaming and come on down to Five Star (which is a great barn) and check them out. You won't regret it!

As an adult with a career, and many other obligations I was in search of a flexible equestrian…read moretraining program. It was essential that I had someone who could work around my busy schedule. I could not be more grateful to Kelly (the owner) for helping me find the perfect partner to ride. Kelly, has been more than accommodating with lesson times and my week to week schedule. The half lease has been perfect, and I enjoy the freedom she allows by trusting you with her beautiful horses. From going on trails to hacking to full on training sessions. It is the one highlight of my week. As a new rider to this sport, I was apprehensive to ever compete in a show. She has taken me to the next level by training me to go to my very first horse show this year! Kelly, has the experience, expertise and excitement for all things equestrian. I look forward to continuing my journey here and jumping to the next level with KMT.

We've been with Kelly Maddox Training for about a year, and our only regret is not coming sooner…read more Our daughter trained at another local barn for many years before this, so we've experienced more than one program -- and the difference has truly been night and day. The training at KMT is structured and intentional. Flatwork matters. Exercises have purpose, and that purpose is clearly communicated to the riders. There is real progression and thoughtful goal setting -- not just riding courses week to week. You can tell the trainers care deeply about long-term development. We've especially appreciated the transparency around show costs and lease or purchase discussions. Expectations are clear, and riders are encouraged to grow in a way that reflects a serious, competitive program. The barn reflects real pride in Maddox Family Farm -- beautiful, but more importantly clean, organized, and exceptionally well cared for. The horses are thoughtfully managed, and there is stability in the staff, including experienced grooms. That consistency says a great deal about how the program is run. Most importantly, our daughter has grown in confidence, grit, and resilience. She's learned how to work through fear and handle both success and setbacks in a much healthier way. For families looking for structured, professional training in a supportive environment, KMT has been an exceptional fit for us.

Keely took me on even though my horse bishop had issues as a high level hunter jumper used to a…read morevery strict regime Keely is a horse whisperer Bishop is a completely different horse as a result of her care, understanding and solid horsemanship that I have found you can not teach - you either have it or you don't While she is in the middle of rebranding - you can't go wrong working with Keely and indeed she will achieve greatness. She is that good

My daughter rode with Keely at Valley View Equestrian for a year and a half. We sadly had to leave…read morethe barn because we relocated out of the area. Keely is patient, kind, is an engaged teacher, and you can tell she LOVES her job and students. She is so knowledgeable about horses and helped my daughter build her self esteem and confidence with riding. We highly recommend her!