Epona Farms

Several years ago I had a first experience on a horse that would have left anyone shaking in their cowboy boots. We were on a group camping trip when everyone decided to take advantage of the local horseback riding. Not wanting to be left behind, I tagged along, figuring how hard could it be? Little did I know I was in for one of the scariest experiences of my life.
Not only did they give me minimal instructions at best, they threw me on an old, grumpy horse that did not appreciate having a novice on his back. Then they decided to go along a narrow trail that wound around the edge of a rocky hill, leaving the poor horse unstable in his footing and me grinding my heels in terror. Needless to say, I think the horse and I both kissed the ground when it was over.
In an effort to face my fears, I decided to find someone willing to give me a new introduction to horses. It wasn’t easy. There are a few ranches offering Groupons and Living Social deals, but out of three that I called, Epona was the only one that answered the phone. Maybe it was good karma, because this farm was a perfect fit for what I wanted.
I could tell on the phone that Trina was going to be very easy to work with. It sounds like she and her husband own the operation. When we arrived (yes, I dragged the BF along for the ride and moral support), we didn’t immediately recognize any designated parking. Anywhere by the front of the office wound up being fine.
A young girl that helps out around the ranch showed us over to the horses. She was very friendly, although I think a bit unused to someone as inexperienced and uncomfortable as I was. Trina came out to take a supervisory lead as we were brushing the horses to prepare them for the saddle.
She had an expert hand as she strapped on the cinch and saddled the horse up, explaining each step along the way. We were instructed to lead the horses into an arena where we were each guided patiently onto the horse via a step stool.
Next came the lesson, which mostly involved first feeling at ease on the horse, then learning how to guide it. We were allowed to trot if we felt comfortable, but there was never any pressure to do anything that made us tense.
After a little over an hour, Trina showed us how to get off the horses (take it slow!) and had us guide them back over to the brushing area. She let us loosen the straps, then she took off the saddles, so we could brush the horses down before we left.
Phew, were we filthy! That shower felt mighty fine when we got home. Definitely not the place to wear your finery. In fact, be sure to wear long pants and boots if you have them. Sandals and shorts are big no-​nos. They have boots and helmets you can borrow if needed.
It was not a posh place, but for the very reasonable rates, I didn’t expect it to be. There is a restroom available and thankfully, it was not an outhouse. Friendly dogs were roaming about begging for a pat on the head, along with chickens and roosters I was just sure my horse wanted to stomp a few times. Unintimidating and very welcoming, it was the perfect spot to conquer a fear.

I ride here a lot, I work in exchange for leasing a gelding, and I’ve helped with the pony parties as well. Triona is super nice, and very responsive, and runs as rescue and most of her rescues serve as lesson ponies. She has reasonable rates and good horses that she takes good care of. I was taught how to do the pony parties and they are a lot of fun for the kids. They walk on a lead line and trot if they feel comfortable, and the handlers give individual instruction as they go along. This is not a super upscale establishment, but it’s affordable and Triona is really willing to work with her clients which is more than can be said about a lot of places. I will continue to ride here and help with parties as much as I can. :)

I took my kids here after receiving a gift certificate. They were very excited to get to ride horses. The first time we went out we were told the lessons were cancelled due to the heat — however no one called us before we left home to tell us this. On our second trip out there the kids brushed their horse and saddled it and then rode in a circle for a hour. There was NO lesson. The lady just sat in a chair and watched them ride. We were very disappointed as we thought the kids would get some instruction and get to do more than just ride in a circle.

While biking from Acampo, CA to Victor, CA a couple of days ago, I passed by this Horse Boarding, Training, Riding School, Tral Riding place… Epona Farms.
Coincidntally, the owner came out as I was taking a picture of their sign… I inquied about their rates which came out to be $ 120 for five Riding Lessons ($ 24 hr for those that are arithmetically challenged). The owner said it would come out to more than an hour per lesson as the Rider has to Saddle the Horse as well as groom it after Riding.
I, myself, probably will not take advantage of Epona Farms as I hadn’t rode a Horse in twenty years… but my kids will have something else to keep themselves busy when visiting the Lodi area.