New to Seattle - where to ride

[cseverson]

Hi all!

I’m a newbie to the forums and the Seattle area! I knew this would be the right place to come to get some recommendations for a place to ride! I’m living in Edmonds, work in the Bothell area.

A little background on me. I’m from the twin cities area of Minnesota, but was living in Indiana for college first, then work for the past 5 years. I was riding at a barn in Zionsville, before making the move out to Seattle. I’ve ridden hunter/jumper my entire life, but don’t have a horse of my own — I usually got the projects to work on.

I’d love to hear any input from any Seattleites out there on where to ride!

[ShadowDansere]

If you’re looking for something low key and sensible, I’d recommend Phoenix Farm in Woodinville. Short commute from Bothell. Very happy there myself!

[Kestrel]

Or if you want the A/AA experience try Archway Equestrian Sports in Woodinville.

[cseverson]

Thank you both for the suggestions! I’ve grown up at A barns, but I understand a lot of barns cater to horse/rider pairs, not exactly those who do not have their own horse.

Kestrel - do you know if Archway accepts students who do not have their own horse? Is there an expectation of buying your own horse?

[Kestrel]

I’m not sure, but I think that Archway has school horses. Give Clare and Corey a call.

[Thoroughbred1201]

Two other excellent barns in the Woodinville area are Legacy (Shelly Kerron) and Hillcrest (Heidi Snider). Both offer excellent instruction with quality horses, and in a friendly atmosphere. Both are top A barns as well.

[Thoroughbred1201]

Teri at Phoenix Farms is excellent as well.

If you are in Edmonds, I would also suggest that you look at Crest View in Stanwood. Kylie Forst is a really focused teacher. Her main goal is to develop really top notch horseman and riders, and she’s got a lot of amateurs riders, as well as kids. It’s a great atmosphere, and an intimate program. Whether you have your own horse, or ride one of her’s makes no difference in the way you are treated. Definitely worth a look!

[cseverson]

Thank you all for the suggestions! I reached out to Heidi at Hillcrest, I think it might be a really good fit for me!

[Stripe]

Denise Youell at Farpoint Farms is also a great one. They have a wide range of school ponies/horses as well

[Thoroughbred1201]

[QUOTE=Stripe;7675864]
Denise Youell at Farpoint Farms is also a great one. They have a wide range of school ponies/horses as well[/QUOTE]

Denise is top drawer. She’d be another great option if Heidi doesn’t work out for you.

[Credosporthorses]

I will second (third?) Denise. Absolutely wonderful program. Horses get too notch care and she will really work with you to help you meet your goals. No pressure to own your own horse, everyone is encouraged to learn at their own pace.