DANA DENISON I started at Sage Creek as a beginning rider. Dana Denison quickly earned my trust and confidence as my trainer. Now in my third year under her tutelage, that trust has only grown. Specifically, Dana: (1) Puts safety first, both for me and my horse; (2) Taught me how to safely groom, tack, and care for my horse; (3) Teaches me principles and practices of good horsemanship through clear instruction, personal demonstration, and recommending horsemanship books to read and YouTube videos to watch; (4) Praises my efforts when I get it right; (5) Is patient when I make mistakes; (6) Corrects me privately and in positive ways when I get it wrong, never resorting to shaming tactics; (7) Teaches and corrects gently yet clearly, explaining the "Why" behind the correction, preserving my dignity, and fostering the joy of learning, improving as a rider, and bonding with my horse; (8) Gives helpful encouragement regardless of how well or how poorly I do in a given lesson; (9) Encourages me to keep working at it when my progress at times seems frustratingly slow, or when I feel like I'm taking two steps backward for every one step forward in my horsemanship skills; (10) Has gone out of her way to make my horsemanship learning experience positive and fun by doing extra things like (a) including me on several trail rides, (b) without my advance knowledge, shampooing and grooming my horse as a surprise on the day my new custom saddle arrived at Sage Creek, (c) increasing my lesson frequency to four times a week throughout the summer and fall of 2022 as I prepared for a horsemanship competition, and (d) continuing my training even while she was recovering from a serious injury. Dana Denison has been such an effective trainer for me, and has helped make and keep my learning process fun and enjoyable. JIM HICKS Jim did an outstanding job gentling my mare, usually four or five days a week over a four-month period. I can't say enough about how effective Jim was in the gentling process, or enough about how the results of his process. He allowed and even encouraged me to observe the daily gentling sessions, during which he: (1) Explained each step in the gentling process; (2) Taught me his philosophy and approach to that process; (3) Explained the "Why" behind each step in the process; (4) Shared things he has learned from decades of gentling and training horses and why he uses the approach he uses. From this I learned much. It was very helpful to observe first hand the progress my horse was making each day with Jim, and to see how she was being gentled and trained. Jim Hicks is exceptionally gifted in his horsemanship skills, in his ability to interact with the horse, and in the way he explains things to the client throughout the training process. DONNETTE HICKS Donnette's knowledge and negotiating skills were instrumental in helping me find and buy my first horse. I couldn't be happier with the horse. Donnette has also been highly effective in supplementing my training in ways that are making me a better rider. For example, Donnette: (1) Taught me how to recognize when my horse is on the correct or incorrect lead; (2) Taught or supplemented my understanding of how to keep my horse "on the aids" when riding, though I still have much work ahead to master that skill; (3) Taught me how to think from the horse's perspective--to "speak" the horse's language--when catching a horse that doesn't want to be caught; (4) Encourages me to keep going when my progress feels frustratingly slow at times; and (5) Has shown compassion when life's circumstances become difficult or become a constraint in my horsemanship progress. read more

First of all, I have been visiting this barn for just over a decade now. I have had a wonderful experience in my years there, and completely love all of the trainers and owners with whom I have associated there. These are the type of people that you will become friends with, and stay friends with for a lifetime. Everyone of them try to be courteous, kind, and congenial. They do not want to slap you on a horse and run you around so that you feel successful when you really don't know a darn thing. By contrast, they want you to leave, uplifted, strengthened, and more knowledgeable. It does not take you long after you meet Jim and Donnette Hicks, the owners of the barn to understand that these people really know what they're talking about. Sometimes I sit and listen to Donnette's lesson. She's kind enough to answer questions and encourage every bit of curiosity I have. She is excellent at explaining things and has a real gift for teaching. Her husband Jim is amazingly gifted with horses and always has the ability to calm my nerves and help me see clearly. I feel safe when I am here and safety and knowledge are what these people encourage. They will tell you upfront that if you want to experience success with horses that takes long term dedication but if you are ready for it, they will be with you every step of the way. I have worked for years with John Maznicki, a wonderful horse trainer at the barn who is excellent with people and has a lot of spectacular experiences and a big heart to share in your journey along the road to excellence in horsemanship. I currently work with Dana Denison, who is both knowledgeable, funny, and uplifting in every single lesson. She, like every trainer at the bar and practices what she preaches, and they want to you to succeed from day one. Although I have not worked with Annie, Sweet and Rebecca Harmon as a student or Jacob Harvath, another trainer, I can tell you that everyone of them are knowledgeable about horses, both their behavior and their needs. They want people to understand the horse from the shoes up and they want owners to understand every aspect of horsemanship not just had to sit in the saddle and look pretty. They are patient and willing to teach anyone who is willing to show up and learn. Horsemanship is difficult, and fun. It is a road with many ups and downs, twists and turns and deep pitfalls. These people are the best at guiding you and they want you to feel like you can get there too. This is absolutely the best place in Utah that I have seen to learn about and enjoy horses. read more

I first learned of Sage Creek back in 2013 when an aquaintance of mine told me about Impact of the Horse. Sage Creek is the main sponsor and idea starter behind this outstanding horse event in co-op with the BLM. It has taken me a few years to get to know the staff of this facility mainly because I lived in WY. In late autumn of 2015 I went to a Jim Hicks clinic that was held at my friends ranch arena in WY and I was hooked! I really enjoy his methods and the way he gets to know you so you learn what he is trying to teach you. I moved to UT in Oct 2015 and I have been having lessons with Jim 2x every month since. This is with my mustang mare. I trained, we are at the finishing stages and need help with full collection and transitioning to being extremely competitive in everything we enter. I love my lessons so much my 12 yr old daughter decided she wanted to start lessons but with Donnette Hicks. We drive from Tooele every other Saturday for our lessons. We are not rich, but we get by and we save for our lessons and we have a desire and dreams. This facility won't break your bank account. We are now sending our 13 yr old gelding to get a tune-up by Jim this Saturday for 30 days, in hope that he will take our daughters 22 year old Mares place as she needs to retire from heavy competition. The staff at this facility are very caring and compassionate. They are truthful and will sometimes tell you what you need to hear instead of just letting things slide. The facility is clean and top notch. read more

We moved to Charleston in the spring of 2022 and I met Dana in the neighborhood. She told me she was a trainer at Sage Creek, which is around the corner from our home. I started taking lessons from her the next week, once I bought a helmet and boots! It had been about 15 years since I last owned a horse and did any serious riding and I was very concerned about my safety since I'm not as young as I used to be! I really appreciated that from the get-go Dana taught me lots of great safety tips and boosted my confidence and skill set. After about four months Dana found me the perfect horse and is in the process of finding one for my Husband. We could not be happier adopting a horse focused lifestyle because of the knowledgeable and caring guidance that Dana has given us!! Sage Creek is an excellent barn for lessons and horse training. The trainers focus on Drassage and Western. The barn hosts schooling shows and clinics. There is a wonderful community spirit and I've made lots of riding buddies. read more

Sage Creek Equestrian is a great resource if you are looking for riding lessons or training for your horse, Owners Jim and Donette are the best in the business providing a professional setting and highly skilled staff. Danna give my horses a tune up and the results were amazing! Jim and Donette are always helping with advise and support for their staff. Both of my granddaughters have taken lessons with Danna and it is has been a game changer, she not only taught them to ride better but also gave them an understanding of horses and the way they process information and how to ask the horse for what we want from them. I have been associated with horses my whole life but since being acquainted with the staff at sage creek I feel more confident in my ability to understand and handle my horses. I highly recommend Sage creek for all your equestrian needs. Mel Price read more

Jim and Donnette entirely revolutionized my approach to riding and to the horse when I started working with them. Everything is built around harmony, communication, and true horsemanship that leaves both the horse and the rider edified. Anyone, from a trail rider to a Grand Prix competitor, will learn to deepen their relationship with their horse and continue in their quest for education. Clinics are regularly held with many of the top horsemen in the world. The facility is beautiful and well-maintained by the dedicated staff. USEF/USDF rated shows are held through the summer, and schooling shows are held during the winter. First rate owners and facility. I give my highest recommendation for any horse owner or horse lover who is serious about their education to get to this facility at the first possible moment. read more

Sage Creek Equestrian is a very professional boarding facility and training center. From the moment you drive through the front gates and up the long beautiful driveway, a welcoming feeling takes over! The exceptional facility is surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Utah and you are just minutes from town. Jim and Donnette Hicks are some of the most professional, enthusiastic and passionate horsemen I know. My husband and I started riding with Jim and Donnette 2 years ago. The amount of knowledge that these folks have is very under rated. In my opinion, the facility and the entire Team Sage Creek are some of the most passionate folks we have ever worked with. The horse is #1. We have excelled in our horsemanship exponentially since riding with this terrific duo. What a team!! Highly recommended!! read more

Although I have never ridden at the Sage Creek Facility, I have had the wonderful opportunity to meet and ride under Jim and Donnette Hicks at a clinic held in Kodiak Alaska. Jim and Donnette pour their heart and souls into their riding and teaching, always focusing on establishing a happier, relaxed, and supple way of riding. They encourage questions and have multiple ways of explaining something you may not be understanding, on the ground or under saddle. Whether your discipline leans more dressage, or maybe western, or even just a tune up to your trail buddy, they are there to help you every step of the way. read more

Dana has been amazing teaching my son! He has been taking lessons for over a 2 year span as well as myself. She has an extensive background in natural horsemanship and dressage and does clinics frequently to further her education. She is always bettering her skill set and in turn is able to pass that on in her lessons. Everyone at the barn has been extremely kind and caring to him. I am so happy we have continued with them, and that we have built such a great relationship with everyone there. I am beyond ecstatic that we can continue on in our riding here ! read more

I have the amazing opportunity to train at this beautiful facility. It it most definitely the best in the state. Love all staff and management. My clients especially appreciate how Sage Creek takes pride in having a clean and safe environment for them to learn with there horses. Whether you want to head up the mountain on your horse or go down the centerline in Dressage this is a fabulous place to be. All trainers at Sage Creek including myself are highly educated and continue to clinic with FEI O judges and respected trainers in Dressage. read more

I could not be happier with my experiences at Sage Creek Equestrian. The facility is amazing and it has a great atmosphere. The trainers are exceptional and will help you reach any goal you have. They make sure to do right by the horses and help the horse and rider achieve everything they are capable of together. From dressage to starting mustangs, they really do it all. Jim and Donette have years of experience and it shows in the dedication and knowledge they share with everyone. read more

I have been to Sage Creek Equestrian Center many times over the past 7 or 8 years, and it is consistently a wonderful learning atmosphere for horses and riders at all stages. The facility boasts two full size outdoor regulation size dressage arenas, and a sizable, well lit indoor, plus round pen, and roomy stalls, private individual tack rooms for each stall, and the staff is professional, caring and superb. I highly recommend Sage Creek Equestrian Center! read more

Sage Creek is a family friendly facility, They are exceptional in the ability to teach to all ages and abilities.. The facility is second to none. Extra large comfortable stalls with attached lockers for tack and equipment, daily turnout, horses there are treated like royalty.. No matter what your goals are with your horsemanship, there is someone there to help you achieve them. Stop by and meet the team! I highly recommend read more

This facility is amazing it is very clean and all the trainers are very welcoming. Could not ask for a better experience with my personal growth for both my horse and myself. I personally love the attention to detail in how I build a safe foundation with the creation of good habits, from how I lead my horse, to saddling my horse and riding my horse. Could not have fallen into a better place, love the Sage Creek Family!!! read more

What an amazing, wonderful place! Gorgeous horses and some of the nicest people you will ever meet. My kids have all been in lessons and continue to participate with their program. If you want a sanctuary away from this crazy world, Sage Creek Equestrian is the place to be. Bring your own horse or use one of their many lesson horses. You won't be disappointed! read more

3 years ago I bought my palomino from Sage Creek and remained there for lessons and boarding. The Sage Creek family is diverse and friendly and represents all ages, abilities, backgrounds and interests, from casual recreational to shows. There's something for everyone. Horses and riders all receive personal care and respect. It has been a great experience. read more

Sage Creek is a world class facility and provides top-notch educational opportunities for anyone who wants to learn how to be better for their horse. The barn is beautiful and kept immaculately clean. The learning environment is safe and carefully managed. The horses get 24 hour, round the clock care. Overall a fabulous place to learn and have fun! read more

This horse facility is warm, clean and absolutely beautiful. The trainers are all incredible! This is one of Americas diamonds. What stood out the most was how everyone was welcoming and excited for me and my horse. I also loved that I could get a quality lesson at the FEI level along with my child could get a wonderful lesson on her pony. read more

Sage Creek is an amazing facility! Has so much to offer for all ages and abilities. The people there treat you like family and make your experience one to remember. Sage Creek offers fantastic trainers and the best care for your horses. You really wont regret coming to this wonderful place. read more