Omgahhh this was so needed!!! The only thing I really was surprised about was the trail, it's kind of like a neighborhood one. It's still a great ride on these Magestic animals, couldn't be too disappointed because I truly wanted to jus ride. It's been so long, since I was a teen since I've been on a horse and my heart needed this. I've always wanted a stable full of horses, hey, a girl can dream. I'm so mad bc I cannot remember our trail guide but she has been working there only for eight months as of 4/18/26. She was the best and easy to talk too. We loved all the horses! I got to ride Ranger and he was so hungry during our trail ride. Had me thinking, do thy feed them lol but I just let him do his thing and she did as well. We all just let the horses eat and chill too while taking the trail ride. We wanted them to enjoy themselves too! My man rode Mega and he's huge! Also, he's their youngest horse and I cannot remember the name of the other horse but I did ask their ages. Many horses live around forty years and Mega was seven, Ranger was 15 and the horse guiding us was 20. It was such a nice day to ride. Don't come here having to use the bathroom lol. My one complaint about the trail is their lack of cleaning it! There was a toilet that has been there on the trail a while, I'm not sure if someone dumped some fish eggs on the trail, there was a little patch that they need to clean asap! They're probably just use to it and might not notice but there and lots of flies over it and I'm not sure why someone wouldn't want to take pride in the trail. I'm hoping this review will help them get there. There are so many things to make this experience even more beautiful and memorable. Thanks for the ride! read more

First time rider: This was the most fun thing I've done all year! I went with my partner (both our first time) and experienced a awesome instructor teach us the basics, give us opportunity to train more or get into the ride and talked about the horses, local area, and different offerings. 10/10 recommend if you haven't ever gone or want to go back. Don't forget to tip! read more

THIS BUSINESS STOLE $320.99 FROM ME!!! I pre-paid for my reservation, and they cancelled my appointment on arrival due to weather. I've been repeatedly contacting them for weeks asking for a refund. The employees that answer the phone will only tell me to send an email to the provided address, but no one ever responds to my emails. I've made several phone calls, sent multiple emails, and filled out contact forms on their website. I've messaged them on Instagram. I've commented on their Instagram and Facebook reels. No one will help me. The only assessment I'm left with is they are thieves! *UPDATE* the owner is now calling me a liar, but STILL has not returned a single phone call or email. Not only does their own policy state that I'd be eligible for a refund (minus an outrageous $96 cancellation fee) as well as their employee assuring me in person that I'd be refunded, but they are lying in their response to my review. I have not been issued a credit, a rain check, or anything else as no one from management has returned any of my numerous voicemails, emails, Instagram messages, or messages through their website. The employees have been mostly courteous, but clearly are not empowered to help. The one two-minute conversation I was able to have with an employee, they repeated over and over, "send an email" even when I asked what I should do since no one is responding to said emails. The only answer I've ever been given by anyone involved with this company is, "send an email", which I have done numerous times with still no response. I did not spend anywhere near an hour at their facility. I walked through their barn for a few minutes and petted one horse while chatting with the employee. We were informed that our horses were not prepared and were off being worked with in a different pasture. We never even saw the horses we were scheduled to ride. No service was provided unless you count the approximately 5-minute walk through their barn. I have made no false statements. I've only expressed my outrage publicly at your unethical conduct. Your reputation is built on your actions. read more

We were in town for a wedding and called to check availability for a last minute 60 min ride the day after, and they were able to get us in. The reservation website locks slots that are within an hour or 2 of the current time, but we followed the website directions to call and had no issues. Our trail guide was very nice and took the time to make sure we understood how to guide the horses and gave us warnings about obstructions in the trail. For a fairly short ride we thought it was great! read more

My son and I did a ride with Vin Hesten on Saturday March 14 from 4-6pm. It was a very good experience. Our guide Sam was fun. She is an authentic individual. We started the ride with a few lessons on how to use the reins to get the horse to go where we wanted. Then we set out on a mixture of single track nature trail and dirt road riding. The horses were well behaved and easy to ride. The weather was perfect as the sun began to sink lower. We enjoyed the experience and will return if we want to ride again! read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - My son and RANGER the horse - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

Had a great time! We went for a cool trail ride, horses were super sweet. Not really a trail ride though, , more like just cruising up and down the block through some yards, no complaints we really had a blast. Megan was very nice courteous. read more

Amazing trail ride with Cole our super nice guide. I had a fantastic time riding Ranger! Till next time! read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Ranger. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

If you don't receive a service or a service was cancelled, you are within your full legal right to file a chargeback under the Fair Credit Billing Act despite no-chargeback agreements and no refund policies. No-chargeback agreements are not legally binding in any country. Consumers cannot forfeit their statutory right to a chargeback under the Fair Credit Billing Act and is often used by businesses to scare customers from pursuing this course of action. Attempted to receive a refund due to weather. It was pouring rain. I reached out several days before and several times before the day of the reservation and received no response up until four hours before the scheduled ride and was informed at that time the reservation was cancelled. They don't offer refunds, only reschedules. The reschedule is not a viable solution if you don't live in the area. Attempted to work out the issue with the business and they threatened me that they'd pursue legal action against me for filing a chargeback with my bank after they refused to issue a refund. Please look at other reviews mentioning "refund" and you'll see similar threatening responses from the owner as well as a lack of responsiveness to people trying to obtain a refund far in advance of their reservation for various reasons. read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Correspondence with the business - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

We had such an amazing time. We were all first timers and felt comforatble with our knowledgeable guide . Our horses were sweethearts too! And the weather couldn't have been more perfect. Thank you Meghan!!! read more

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The horses you set aside were the ones that were fighting. Your employee confirmed that and so did your daughter. I don't want a voucher. I want a refund. We were on vacation and will not be back for a long time. read more

My husband and I had a good time, but have been in other trail rides in Temecula Wine Country that were much better and more professionally ran. The trails were not taken care of well, trees on the trail were not trimmed and we had to duck best we could but the trees scraped our head, face and upper body along the trail ride. We left with dirt and leaves on our hair and face from the ride because of this. There was a dumped toilet along the trail and make sure you do not need to use the restroom at the horse ranch. The porta potty was full of thick spider webs including a large black widow. It was obvious the porta potty had not been cleaned in many months. Hearing the two horses we were riding had severe injuries recently was troubling as well. I felt bad this ranch was using horses that were recently injured and in pain yet expected to serve people on their backs and trail rides with injuries. I would choose another next time. read more

Sam our trail guide was amazing, she ran us throw commands on the ranch and let us get comfortable with the horses before hitting the trail. The trail was perfect and mostly shaded which was great for the heat, the horses are so well trained very easy to ride for new riders like myself, Sam gave us clear instructions and communication the whole trail To make it a great experience for us and the horses, we loved it! Definitely will be back hopefully with same horses and same guide! read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Ranger and Mega! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

If you haven't been there, how am I going to be able to explain what you're missing ? Completely impossible. And if you're in California southern, to mid. An economical weekend this could be vacation. Stay safe have fun . Turn off the media and the fear. Don't forget to live while you're making a living. Some things are even free. Couldn't picture of the horseback riding, I'm disabled and was side-by-side with a helper, and having the best time in my life, but I tell you it was the best part. read more

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Would give 0 stars, booked a ride and it was cancelled due to weather and they will not refund the cost. Very disappointed in the customer service. read more

Amazing trail ride with Jade and Cole as our tour guides. Will defiantly be back. Great little course they teach you before you go and the horses were so sweet. Still missing Ranger read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Ranger! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

We went on the sunset ride Tonight. It was a private ride with our guide. He was great. I would recommend to anyone no matter what experience you have. I loved this picture..my horse sticking tongue out. Ranger was perfect. We will go again..maybe with family to share read more

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This was false advertisement. You are not going to ride by wineries, you will ride around a bunch of bushes in their property. You will ride trying not to bump your head into trees and bushes. There was no sign to find the business on the road and it all looked very sketchy. They had a porta potty that clearly had not been cleaned in about a year. The tour guide was a kid in high school. He was a super sweet kid so no shade to him. But this place seemed like a bait and switch. This looked like someone trying to run a business with no business skills. The horses were calm and beautiful. Thats the only positive thing I can say. I made the reservation myself. read more

I took my family, including a 9 and 11 year old, here for the hour trail ride. It was outstanding. Cole explained everything in detail and made sure the kids were comfortable before we left. The horses were perfect for beginners and it was a great overall experience. read more

I loved Vin Hesten! My partner and I were riding Ranger and Mega respectively and had an amazing time. It was hot out here in July but there are parts of sun and shade so once we got on the trail it was a fantastic time. We booked through Virgin Experiences which didn't let Vin Hesten know we were coming, so make sure you call ahead to sign the emailed waivers and let them know you've booked with them if you use a voucher or something. Sam was our guide and did a great job putting me at ease, answering my questions, and leading us. I was on Ranger who is a complete sweetheart and I miss him already. Mega is larger and tried to eat some hay and grass but my boyfriend handled him just fine so we had a great experience. Sam is super cool and easy to talk to as well, and she made sure all safety things were taken care of before we started too with great care which I really appreciated. Only downside: the Port-o-Potty is super gross apparently, according to my partner. Stop on the way there to use any restrooms if you need to. I'd recommend long pants and breathable long sleeved tops because you may brush up against some trees and things while on the trail that could cut you potentially-- however, it's not dangerous really. Taller people beware, you may need to fuck under some lower outward branches while on the trail. By the way, if you book the horses and wine thing, you go to Frangipani afterwards which is nearby. read more

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My first time doing a proper horse riding trail and Sam went out of her way to make me and my horse buddy Ranger comfortable. She was an absolute angel and had eyes on the back of her head, giving me advice and tips the whole ride through. She was knowledgeable, professional, and patient with all my questions! I didn't know what to expect for this experience but she definitely exceeded all expectations. Thanks Sam, can't wait to do another ride and hear all your stories! read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Me and the love of my life Ranger, my boyfriend also came along with the handsome and well tempered Mega - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

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Had a great trail ride over the weekend at their farm. The people are welcoming and kind. Sam is the perfect person for this job. She went out of her way to make sure we knew what we were doing before the ride, she kept us safe, and she also made sure we had a great time. She is silly, entertaining, and just an all around great person. The horses were great, the trail was cool, and we really enjoyed ourselves. Thank you! Also, other places in the area were booked, and they had availability last minute which worked with our hectic schedules. I recommend you bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray. read more

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Our ride was lead by Cole, who was absolutely adorable and informative! We showed up late, unfortunately, and he still kept us the whole allotted time.Great kid! I would definitely recommend this trail ride package! It was well worth it! read more

Great family owned stable. Came out for a birthday adventure and had a blast! Our guide, Cole, was knowledgeable, well-spoken, and patient with us first timers. The horses were sweet, mellow, and clearly well taken care of/loved. Overall it was a very easy, and enjoyable experience! We look forward to coming back soon! read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Good times on sweet ponies! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

i really enjoyed this adventure with me and my partner.We were in town for a wedding and made a weekend trip out of it! Exceptional service! Our trainer that guided the experience was so sweet and the engagement he had with us what out of This world! So kind and welcoming The only thing was the trail wasn't as beautiful as I imagined the only downfall from this trio but other than that it was an incredible activity read more

I spent my birthday out here and it was such a lovely experience as someone who had never been on a horse. A little scary at first but the guide was great in assuring me throughout the ride. 10/10 experience and would definitely do it again! THANK YOU! read more

My friend and I went as a Christmas gift, and absolutely loved it. Our guide Cole was amazing. He is super knowledgeable, gave us lots of instruction made sure we were comfortable before we went out. He made the ride fun, was informative, super chill and it's a very pretty area. Lots of dogs and other horses on the property as well. You're going on a trail ride and then after that you go down to the wineries. That makes a lot more sense. I cant imagine people riding horses after going to wineries probably not the greatest idea . Before I booked it, I thought you were riding the horses to the wineries and back to the stables, but that's not what you're doing. We will definitely go again. I can't believe it's taken us this long to go since w live close. We will request Cole as you should as well. read more

We had a relaxing trail ride. The horses were gentle. We would ride again perhaps to try a different trail for a change. read more

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Out tour guide, Cole, was great. He gave us much needed information to feel confident and comfortable before we started our trail ride. My horse, Whistle, did a very good job and the other people in the party were happy with their horses as well. I loved the ride, lots of trees and greenery. I would definitely recommend this place. read more

It was a lot of fun--a great way to spend a few hours in the sun. Our guide was incredibly friendly and made the horseback ride truly enjoyable. The trail is a charming loop around the property, and they start you off with a gentle warm-up in the arena. Even if you've never ridden before, you'll feel comfortable in no time. read more

My husband and I were gifted a date night through Virgin Experiences by his parents for Christmas and we finally got around to choosing our experience. We are very happy that we chose to go with Ven Hesten Trail Rides. We have been wanting to ride for years and this gave us the opportunity. Sam was our host and she was amazing! She put us on Ranger and Mega to ride and they were wonderful horses. The trail runs through the oaks on the property which kept us cool as it was a warm day. I have little mini legs (vertically challenged) and still managed to ride Ranger well. As stated, it is a working ranch. Do not expect frills. There is an outhouse. Sunny, the bucking bronco met us as we parked and came straight up to meet my husband. He was penned. All in all, a fabulous morning. read more

Looked at many different places to do this morning ride with my girlfriend. It's her first time ever being on a horse and I have ridden horses since I was six. So finding a place that I could cater and teacher in a good environment but yet still take us on a ride that is not just on just a dirt road or a trail lead was important. Want to make sure that our ride around was entertaining for both of us. And I'm glad to say that Vin Hesten's provided just that. Other corral and property provided similar feels too dude ranches that I've been to a concert Nevada's. Lots of dogs, cats animals in horses on the property when you first arrive. The family was very open and warm when we got there for check-in and we started off with a teaching lesson in the corral. The lesson wasn't rushed. It was excellent instruction, and make sure that she had basic skills down before we ended up leaving the ranch. Are they match the horses to our skill levels, which makes a big difference when you're out riding. We stink their way through the Temecula hills around the property, which was very beautiful since it had been raining for a few months before arriving. Lots of things were in full bloom, the path range from dry to wet ground throughout, which always makes for a entertaining a walk. Aries of the grass is green really tall dude all the watering and of course horses being horses always like to snack or at least try to and that presented a fun challenge for our buckaroo who her horse Kona I was more than happy to oblige, trying to get his belly full. By the end of the ride, though she was able to learn how to keep the horse from eating as we rode, and by the end of our morning walk, she had mastered basic writing skills. Our guide was very pleasant and informative and also took photos of us, not see below, with a GoPro during a ride, which they posted on their website for us. At the end they gave us vouchers for some of the nearby wineries, which we went to two of them. We had wine flights which we didn't have to pay for which was a good mid day start to our wine touring adventure through the Temecula region. Highly recommend this place for beginners, and or intermediate riders. Are the owners and the family do a good job catering to everybody's level. read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Riding through the backcountry. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

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Sam, our guide, was clearly very knowledgeable about the horses and shared a lot of information with my husband and I about them (Ranger and Mega). She did a good job helping everyone feel comfortable with the pre-trail "lesson" and communicated well throughout the ride. But, don't expect much from the trail - it is not very picturesque or well maintained. A fair bit of time is spent by or near the road. Sam blatantly told us she didn't feel fully safe and gets nervous on the road; that she's asked her boss to remove this portion of the ride. Given that, I wonder why it is still included. The ride was shorter than anticipated. After, we were sent to their partner winery; with all of the other options in the area, their partner winery would be toward the bottom of my list. Overall, the experience was simply "fine" which, given the cost, was disappointing. read more

Fun morning ride. Some low branches, wear a hat. It would be nice if the guide knew the names of the plants and trees etc. So much was in bloom! But she was nice and very patient and helpful. read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

I had an amazing time with a well trained horse. The young man who was our guide was as sweet as could be! Great price for a wonderful experience. read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - This is Ranger! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

I had such a wonderful time here. The guide was so helpful, friendly, and thorough. For those beginning or have had prior horseback riding experience, I highly recommend this ranch. read more

Bucket list item complete ~ wonderful trail ride for a first time horseback rider, me! Super fun experience & the guide was an excellent teacher! Ranger was a sweetheart, too! Okay read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Sweet Ranger! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

What a lovely ride for my man and I. He surprised me with a horseback riding experience. It was perfect weather for an hour long ride. All the staff we met here were super friendly. Dusty our guide was very patient and showed us how to mount,dismount, and the simple commands on riding. There were only two of us so we got lucky and ended up with a private ride. It is a nice family run business and they had a nice private trail with lots of greenery, trees, and rustic trails. Although it would've been nice to have more of an open vista scenery like in some other photos on yelp. Our horses were named Thomas and Duece. Both horses were calm and easily manageable. As this was my mans first time horseback riding, his horse Thomas was super nice and easy to manage. Dusty also taught us how to be alpha with our horses and my horse Duece really tested me and decided to go on his pace and snacked a lot along the way. Since we couldn't carry cameras or cell phones during our ride, Dusty took photos of us along the ride. This place does charge you a nominal fee of $20 for all photos (roughly 8 poses) and these photos were sent immediately to our emails. It would've been nice if he had taken additional photos during mounting and dismounting on our horses. Overall good time and great memories for sure. read more

On a recent trip our family of novices decided to do a last minute trail ride. We called Susie q and they were booked up - I'm so glad they were because we had a BLAST at Vin Hesten. The horses were super. I rode Mega and we got along great. Kaity was a ***super*** guide. She knows her stuff, cared about our kiddo, and was great company on the ride. 10/10 - repeat next time we're in town. read more

Such a beautiful and exciting ride with a great leader leading the way. A birthday to remember! read more

Vin Hesten Trail Rides - Ranger was a great boy - Horseback Riding Near Me - Temecula, California

I took my wife and another couple as my wife always wanted to try to ride a horse. None of us had ever ridden one. Sam was our trainer/tour guide. She was very calm, helpful, silly, informational and great with the horses. After a half hour of training we were off and having a blast. The entire experience felt safe, and our fear was being on a horse that ran off. Never once felt panic or fear. Getting on and especially off the horse was a little tricky, but other than that we completely loved the experience. After the roughly 2 hour experience, we were offered to go to their winery down the street for a free glass of wine. The wine I chose ended up being one of the best wines I have ever had. Pro tip-bring some water on ice for when you are done riding. You are on the horse for a solid 1.5 hours and it was hot out when we went (99 degree). read more