New Moon Ranch (NMR) is a very special place! I came to NMR over a year ago upon the recommendation of a friend who had been riding and taking instruction from Lotta. It was a life long dream of mine to learn how to horseback ride but for many years it was something that I never thought that I could do. After a conversation with Lotta followed by my first lesson, I began a path on the most rewarding endeavor. Lotta helped me to address any reservations and fears that I had right from the beginning. I appreciate Lotta's instruction because she helps me as the rider understand the horse's perspective and how to build a foundation of trust. Lotta has a gift for teaching. She is emphatic, has a great sense of humor, and also knows when a rider needs to be challenged to break through to the next level. As a beginning adult rider, NMR has offered me a place to examine and grow my self-confidence, communication, and leadership skills through the horse and rider relationship. More than a year later, I am still so excited about this new found passion of horseback riding and always enjoy my time there! I must also mention that NMR is located in the most beautiful setting that offers beautiful trails and a ring situated in a scenic valley alongside the Huntington River. Lotta and the rest of the NMR crew (Hollister and Clara) are always welcoming, kind, and together offer a wealth of knowledge. If you are looking for a down-to-earth and beautiful place to ride, definitely check out New Moon Ranch. read more

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It's a great family ranch. Hollister worked with my newly adopted horse on picking up his feet, not kicking, and will continue to work with him until he is sound/rideable as he bucks/bolts currently. read more

This barn and the teachers here have become a place my heart calls home. After several years off from riding, I was looking to get horses back in my life again, but had no interest in competitive sport and was searching for a journey with a teacher who takes a slower, more holistic approach to the partnership between human and horse. New Moon Ranch focuses on truly understanding horse behavior and language to listen to what they have to tell us, and boy they have a lot to say. Horses are amazing teachers that can help us to understand ourselves, build trust, and grow confidence. The environment here is casual and I love the down-to-earth nature and the judgement-free sense of belonging. An emphasis is placed on natural horsemanship and the guidance to simply ride for pleasure (the low-pressure, fun part!). Many of the horses are ridden with bareback pads, which I've really really enjoyed using to practice balance. The barn itself is in a beautiful setting along the Huntington River, where the trickle of water, birds singing, and breeze on your face offers a sense of peace that seems harder and harder to find. The instructors/owners Lotta and Hollister are great. They have a special way with horses and teaching you connection to the animal you're making a team with. They are confident in their methods and teach you to be aware of your own state of physical being and mental energy to be the best communicator and partner you can. The other riders in the barn are also sweet and welcoming. I have finally found some healing and more meaning and joy in riding again. If this sounds like something you're interested in, I recommend these folks and trying out NMR. read more