I've been riding at Castle Farm for a little over three years. I needed a barn that was a closer…read moredrive in Knightdale/Raleigh and this was a good fit. While you have the opportunity to do horse shows (eventing; hunter/jumper; dressage; drill team), it definitely does not have the snobby "show barn" vibe like many places. It really is a team/family environment and I've made some wonderful friends here who I do things with away from lessons. Horses have a way of bringing people together! Heather (owner/operator) has been doing this for decades and is incredibly knowledgeable both in horse care and riding itself. She gets to know each individual student and their quirks/personalities. You won't just be sitting on a pony walking around a ring...you will learn the ins and outs of horsemanship and equitation. I appreciate that Heather takes the time to explain the mechanics of things rather than just pointing you at a jump. Safety is the top priority (closely followed by "Did you have fun?") for both riders and horses. I have ridden off and on since I was around 10 and I can say that Castle Farm ranks #1 for this of anywhere I've been previously. Lessons (group and private) are available for children and adults every day except for Thursdays and Sundays. There are around 15-20 horses, all of them with individual personalities and for riders of varying skill levels. The farm has a medium sized arena/stadium jump ring, a large field with various cross country jumps, another field with stadium jumps, and a grassy dressage arena. Come check it out!

I rode at Castle Farm in high school it is an amazing environment! I was also one of the feeders…read morefor Heather she is great! She fosters a welcoming and friendly spirit there i learned a lot from her. Even after i left the Raleigh area she had been a tremendous help for me as a resource she has given me so much advice over the years. i am truly grateful for all the experiences she facilitated!

We just moved to the area from Tampa Bay two months ago and discovered Black Creek Hill Farms while…read morelooking for trail rides. We are so glad we found them. Brenda, the owner, is an incredibly warm and friendly person who does some wonderful things at her farm. The day we arrived for our trail ride Brenda greeted us, got us situated with gear and horses. Then she personally adjusted the saddles and stirrups to ensure the best fit. The farm has a number of volunteers who help guide the riders through the trails in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Our two volunteers were incredibly polite and thoughtful as they guided us through the ride. The horses were gentle and responsive. The entire experience was wonderful from start to finish. After we returned to the stables Brenda talked about the impact the horse therapy they do at the farm has had on participants. This has literally changed peoples lives. Outstanding place and people. We will absolutely be returning. Highly recommended.

Fun and excitement riding the trail with my grown girls. Staff was very professional, patient, fun…read moreand accommodating. I recommend Black Hill Farms for beginners and experienced riders. We had a great time.

Recently had the pleasure of staying and riding at Shangrila guest ranch for 5 days. I enjoyed…read moreidyllic settings, daily rides through woods, meadows and creeks, and picnics at beautifully restored cabins and barns. Julie and Gary, the owners, as well as the young women who work with them, offer tons of knowledge about their horses and their exceptional property. Hearty meals and comfortable accommodations made for a very restorative experience. Highly recommend !

By far the friendliest and most accommodating staff. Beautiful and well taken care of animals…read more Would highly recommend stopping by the ranch!

Blue skies of maple view is the best barn in the WORLD! This stunning stable has changed my life…read moreforever in the best way possible! The horses are so gentle, well cared for, sweet and loving! Summer camp at Blue Skies is one of my favorite times of the year! The best way to describe it is a cowgirls heaven! Each day you get to ride horses, learn about horses, and draw horses, and then take a refreshing dip in the pool!!! I have been riding at Blue Skies for six years and every moment I have been smiling! Ms. Deborah is one of the kindest, most loving and patient people I have ever met! She is so passionate, caring and truly the heart of Blue Skies! This delightful barn has an amazing community, full of kind and loving people who share their appreciation and compassion for these amazing horses! When someone asks me if i could go anywhere in the world, my answer is always Blue Skies! If you are looking for a phenomenal, non-competitive, welcoming and unforgettable barn, than Blue Skies of Mapleview is your place!

I love this place! It feels like home to me with Deborah and those that I've met here. Everyone is…read moreso warm and welcoming. Deborah and Zoe really know what they are talking about, I've never been to a barn with so much respect for the horses and others and it's wonderful. I've learned so much here and found some a deeper respect and love for these beautiful horses.

Amazing day. Friendly staff. My daughter loved the ride and spending times with the horses would…read morehighly recomend

I had my first horseback riding experience here, and it was honestly better than I expected…read more I rode a horse named Preacher, and he was such a good boy. Super calm, gentle, and perfect if you're nervous or brand new to riding. I'd definitely recommend him for first-timers. My husband rode Kahlua. She was funny and entertaining; trying to eat everything that came across her path. Lol The guides were upbeat, informative, and kept everything running smoothly, which made me feel a lot more comfortable. You can tell they know what they're doing. All of the staff were friendly, patient, and really knowledgeable, which made the whole experience even better. I had a great time and can't wait to come back again!

If you're looking for a laid-back no drama facility to board your horse, relax on amazing trails or…read moretake lessons, then look no further than Hidden Spring Farm! Lighted arena with great footing, dressage ring, open field jumps and great trails. What more could you want?!? Full board to pasture board, they have you covered! You and your horse become part of the family. No matter your skill level they have you covered with lessons from beginner to advanced.

We went horse back riding with the grandchildren on yesterday and we found this place in Apex we…read morehad never been on horses before and this was a wonderful experience for the grandchildren and the price was very reasonable. I would highly recommend this place especially if you are first timers. The children had an opportunity to groom the horses and give them treats