We had a trail lesson. The trail had old tires, broken pipes, and trash, and we even passed by a…read moregutted vehicle. The owner was rude to us because we didn't 'look up' enough - she said she was joking but it was at our expense, wasn't funny, and her tone was not joking. Also, the horses do the exact same trail every day, and will just follow the guide anyway, it's a bit like the touristy horse rides, except there isn't anything touristy to see. I wouldn't go back, there are several nicer farms nearby.

Bought my wife some horseback riding lessons and she convinced me to give it a shot. I've never…read moreridden a horse before but Anita was patient with me, focusing on my form and making sure I dont start to have any bad habits. Had a great experience and now my wife's anniversary gift is couples horseback riding lessons :)

It's been almost 1.5 years of riding here at Merkel, so I have finally have a well formed view of…read moreMerkel Farm. Stephanie (the owner) is, by far, the most caring, understanding, and helpful instructor I have EVER had. She understands each person's needs and can help each person grow not only in confidence, but in self-reliance. Stephanie always looks out for every person and makes sure they are getting the help they need, as well as being given the push to jump higher (sorry about the pun) as well. Her horses are all loved dearly, taken care of, and get to roam in spacious fields all day like horses should. No horse is forced to stand in a stall all day only to be ridden once, and returned. They get to stretch their legs and take in the serene backwoods Bowie scenery. Every lesson is formed around making each person better, with focuses in different areas. One day might be a balance day, strength day, cross country day, position day, ect. I never know what fun experiences lay for me on the other side of the white fenced arena. The grounds are well groomed, with several large paddocks full of happy horses. There is a spacious outdoor ring, covered indoor ring, and a host of cross country fences around the property. There are several friendly furry friends roaming around the grounds, including Brandy the ever present Goldendoodle, and Pepper, the most friendly cat in the world. I will continue to make Merkel my home and hope that everyone sees the beauty in this lovely farm tucked back on a piece of paradise.

This place is like therapy for my daughter. Great kids riding program that teaches them how to…read moreboth care for and ride the horses. Can't wait for summer camp!

We had a class for our four kids and it was a wonderful intro to horse back riding. The staff was…read morefriendly and their kids assisted with the class in a really helpful way

Not a good experience for us. Maria is the best instructor there. The others? not so much…read more Trainers yelling at students, not paying attention, constant texting, negative, rude, condescending, passive aggressive, just plain unprofessional. We were miserable. Can't recommend, sorry. Look elsewhere.

Do NOT ride or board at this farm. The owner is not a business professional and does not treat…read moreanyone respectfully - adult or child. She does not have the patience or mind frame to teach a beginner and will not motivate your child to want to ride if they should become timid of riding due to her horses not acting properly because of being sick. If your child is a boy - definitely do not even consider this place.The small pens for the horses are all dirt and mud. There are bees nests in every shed - horses have been swarmed by these. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do not give this farm a seconds consideration.

It has sadly closed down However, my time there, I was treated like family. Taught to ride from the…read morebest of the best. And it left me with Amazing memories of great summers.

Clay Hill Stables…read more Purchased Oct 10, 2014 1.One 60-minute beginner horseback-riding lesson Cant wait to use voucher

We had a unicorn come to our bridal shower. My daughter was so surprised and all the guests loved…read morehaving their picture taken with the unicorn! It was an event we will never forget! We got to hold bunnies, goats and pet mini horses and even a calf. Staff was so nice and accommodating.

We had a unicorn party for our 5yo daughter and Stone Eagle Stables sent us 2 horses (one was a…read moreunicorn pony). The gentleman (Brandon) they sent was EXCELLENT with the children. My five year old is very shy and he was so good with her that she was immediately at ease. She and the other kids had as much time as they wanted with the horses. I would definitely recommend using them!