I can't say enough great things about Karla as a trainer and as a person. After a 5-year break from riding, I was nervous to get back into it--let alone return to the show ring. But Karla welcomed me in, believed in me from day one, and had me back in the ring within just a few months. Her lessons are clear, supportive, and always push me to improve. She challenges you in all the right ways, with just the right balance of patience and encouragement. Even on tough days, I leave feeling motivated and proud of the progress I'm making. Karla truly cares--not just about your success as a rider, but about you as a whole person. I feel incredibly lucky to be learning from her. read more

See all

My son has had riding lessons for a lengthy time with this stable. He has physical weakness/needs and they create a welcoming, nurturing, safe environment for him to participate. They are always on time, communicate in advance with weather related issues and work the entire allotted time. They are centrally located as well which is a definite plus for a busy family. Most importantly, the instructors have pushed him mentally to improve his confidence, and skill. To say they are a blessing would be an understatement. read more

Fantastic Horse Camp!! My 10yo son just completed a horse summer camp with Karla and had the time of his life. I was a bit worried he wouldn't like it because he's an avid rider, but Karla made sure it was the highlight of his summer. He had fun, made new friends and was challenged in his riding. We are looking forward to riding with Karla again! Highly recommend! read more

I reached out to schedule a pony ride for my toddler at a busy time for Hegewisch-right around the July 4th, and with Summer Camp ongoing...but we we able to make arrangements. I received some more specific details about where to go on the morning of our appointment that were really helpful in finding the stables, i felt that was super thoughtful. Even though it was early, Ms.Maya greeted us with enthusiasm and introduced us to a pony, Matilda who was all set to give my toddler a ride. Maya fitted my daughter with a helmet and we set out on a lovely morning walk around the property. Maya was very attentive and engaging, periodically making sure that my daughter was sitting safely. She gave my little one clear, gentle, age-appropriate instructions (many of which went ignored lol) and didn't lose patience. She was happy to answer questions and was very courteous about us lingering a bit to see some of the ins and outs of cleaning up after the ride. She even helped us give sweet Matilda a treat. It meant a lot that she took the "lesson" seriously because of course it is a very real learning experience even for a 2yr old. I credit her (and Matilda) with this being an awesome experience! Maya really cares about what she does, and about the horses and it shows in her professionalism. We hope to be back soon. read more

This is a professional, well maintained equestrian training center. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Upon entering, it is a joy to drive ( slowly 5mph) up the gravel driveway and see Karla working her magic as she trains her students. The grounds and stables are kept in excellent condition, it's such a dreamy place to be if you are an equestrian and share the love of horses. Even though I am just a beginner, Karla took her time to spend with me and has thought me so much in just 2 lessons. I highly recommend this business. read more

My daughters just did a week of the summer camp and they loved it! Karla and all of the other people working it were just great. My daughters have never asked for more of a camp and they did not want this one to end! We will definitely be back!! read more

The absolute best!! I joined Karla about a year ago after a 6 year break from riding. I had left riding on not the best terms, and I was nervous to get back in the saddle. Thank goodness I found Karla! Not only is her training world class, but she helped me find the most perfect mare. She and Karla together have helped restore my confidence immensely. Karla really knows horses and she really knows people. She has an uncanny ability to read exactly what you and your horse are thinking which makes her real-time instruction invaluable. She has helped me achieve my riding goals so quickly and I cannot wait to keep training with her to raise the bar even higher! read more

Karla and her team and dynamic. Karla instructed me as an adult and my children were instructed by her team along with her oversight and direct instruction. Her summer camps are a hit too! She's a mom who gets kids and thankful for that over and over again. She's honest, caring, and teaches all to be better people. A wonderful person inside and out. read more

I am so thankful to have found Hegewisch Stables, I can't recommend it enough. Karla is such a caring and knowledgeable trainer. My daughter has learned so much in just a couple of weeks, that we have even considered moving to Ca so she can continue training with her. Her approach is holistic; riders learn to believe in themselves, find their inner strength, take care of the horses, communicate with them, respect them, love them even more if that is even possible in some cases like my daughter's. All of this while being strict and loving (perfect duo). As other review states, every horse and rider in her program becomes family. Also, both of my girls signed up for a summer camp and, aside from having a great time, they also learned so much. read more

I highly recommend Hegewisch Stables. Karla is awesome - truly one of a kind. She is creative, energetic, and makes learning fun in a supportive environment. She cares deeply and throws her entire heart into every lesson and interaction with clients. NO ONE brings the fun like Karla. My daughters are obsessed with her and every minute spent with her is packed with love and laughter. The grooming staff is so sweet and professional, and the summer horse camps are a great way to bring young riders into the sport in a fun accessible way. When you ride here, you are part of a family. read more

I have been taking my kids to Karla for a decade now, and by far she's the best trainer. She and her staff are professionals that won't just ride you in circles she is a serious trainer that can have anyone willing to put the effort competing faster than any other barn. No nonsense and full of heart. If you can't take criticism don't do serious sports! Karla Hegewisch is worth the time and money. read more

Hegewisch stables is the place to learn how to horseback ride. The trainers are engaging with years of horse experience, and most importantly, they know how to communicate their years of experience to the people they teach. (Also, for the quality of the training and horses, the price is quite the steal!!) I've been riding with Karla, the main trainer and owner, for a few months, and I feel like I've improved tenfold under her tutelage. And, if I ever wasn't sure Hegewisch stables didn't produce excellent riders, I only needed to see some of her long term students ride to see just exactly how good your riding can be at Hegewisch stables. But most importantly, Karla is trustworthy and safe. She has an excellent sense of where a rider is and what a rider needs and an excellent manner of communicating that to a beneficial way to rider. There are two other trainers at Hegewisch stables, and they are also wonderful instructors who have been trainer under Karla's watchful eyes. If you're looking for a place for either yourself or your child to ride, YOU'VE FOUND IT! read more

Karla is an amazing trainer. She loves what she does and it shows. Her many years of experience and love of teaching is engaging. I highly recommend her!! read more

Omg. I am only 7 lessons in and just posted today on a lunge line. Iker is such a positive, patient and motivating trainer. As a 52 year old, I never thought that I could even do this but the people here made me feel accepted and capable. Such patience and understanding that learning at this age ain't easy!! Thank you Hegewisch Stables!! read more

We've been with Karla for a month and a half now and we couldn't be happier! Karla is an excellent trainer whose passion comes through in her training. Her entire team is experienced, professional and ready to bring their riders and horses to the next level! Her lessons are very focused with safety being a priority. They work hard but play hard too - she expects everyones A game during a lesson but outside the arena it's all smiles and laughs! read more

Karla is a dream trainer. After trying out numerous hunter/ jumper barns, we found Hegewisch stables. Karla was more than happy to invite us to check out the barn, meet the horses, and get to know her training methods prior to setting up a trial lesson. In just a few short months, my daughter is more confident than ever while on horseback. Karla provides positive praise, is thorough, and always ensures her critiques are constructive. Aside from the training received, the girls on Karla's team are super supportive of one another. This can be challenging to find in competitive sports and in the adolescent age group! read more

Karla is one of the few professionals who is in this sport truly because she loves it. Every horse and rider in her program becomes apart of her family! read more

This facility is amazing! The staff and instructors really know how to give lessons! Top Top for lessons in San Diego!! Highly recommend. read more

Hegewisch Stables is the best full-service, family oriented barn in San Diego County. From young beginning riders to accomplished equestrians they can provide the training. The horses are well-trained and safe. The trainers are professional and provide both children, teenagers and adults with interesting, challenging & fun riding programs. The barn atmosphere is friendly & welcoming! If you are interested in riding come out to the barn and watch the lessons. read more

Hegewisch Stables is one of the most professional yet friendly barns in San Diego. They offer a wide range of training from beginners who have never ridden before to Grand Prix riders who compete professionally. Everyone at Hegewisch stables makes an effort to get to know you and make you feel as though you are part of their family. Karla and Everardo are great people to work with and devote themselves to helping their students and clients achieve their goals. I highly recommend Hegewisch Stables! read more

I highly recommend Hegewisch Stables. Karla, Everardo and all their grooms are lovely people- both friendly and professional! I rode with Karla for my last 2 years in high school, and she stayed in touch with me all throughout college (where I represented my school twice at IHSA Nationals). I recently graduated and she welcomed me back to the barn with open arms- literally, best hugs ever. I've ridden with many trainers, but no one compares to Karla's technique. The way she teaches and the way I learn go hand in hand, so her lessons are always the best lessons, even on my bad days. I can't say enough good things about Karla, as a trainer and as a person. She'll challenge you and sometimes she'll push you to your limits, but always with a motivational tone and with confidence because she believes in her students. And there's nothing like the feeling when you get it right and you see the pride and joy in her face- the "That's my girl!" moment. As her student, you'll know that she truly cares about both your growth as an equestrian and your personal wellbeing as well. I'm so thrilled to be back! read more