Where to Find Horseback Riding Lessons in Tassajara Valley: From Beginner to Competitive Rider
The Tassajara Valley, spanning Danville, Pleasanton, and San Ramon (extending into Castro Valley), is home to a thriving equestrian community. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a first riding lesson or an experienced competitor training for high-level events, this area offers top-notch riding programs across multiple disciplines.
As a lifelong horsewoman and equestrian real estate specialist, I understand how important it is to find the right barn, trainer, and equestrian community to match your riding goals. Here’s a list of some of the best riding programs in the Tassajara Valley for both recreational and competitive riders.
🏇 For the Beginner Rider: Safe, Supportive, & Fun Lessons
If you (or your child) are new to horseback riding, you’ll want a lesson program that prioritizes safety, proper fundamentals, and a patient teaching style. These barns provide a welcoming environment for new riders.
1️⃣ Shiloh West Equestrian Center (San Ramon/Castro Valley, CA)
Great for: Beginners, kids’ lessons, horsemanship basics
Disciplines: English & Western
Why You’ll Love It: Shiloh West offers a fun, low-pressure environment where first-time riders learn the fundamentals of horse care and riding in a safe and structured setting.
📍 Location: San Ramon/Castro Valley, CA
2️⃣ Summit Ranch (Alamo, CA)
Great for: Beginner & intermediate riders, adults returning to riding
Disciplines: English, Western, trail riding
Why You’ll Love It: Summit Ranch offers beautiful trail access along with structured lessons, making it ideal for families and riders who want a relaxed atmosphere.
📍 Location: Alamo, CA
🏆 For the Competitive Rider: Hunters, Jumpers, Dressage & More
For riders looking to compete, refine their skills, and train at a higher level, these barns offer elite coaching and structured programs to support success in the show ring.
3️⃣ Iron Horse Equestrian (Danville/Pleasanton, CA)
Great for: Competitive hunter/jumper riders of all levels
Disciplines: Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation
Why You’ll Love It: Iron Horse Equestrian is a top-tier training program that produces serious competitors in the hunter/jumper world. With excellent coaching and high-quality horses, this barn is perfect for riders looking to excel in the show ring while focusing on proper equitation and horsemanship.
📍 Location: Danville/Pleasanton, CA
4️⃣ Kelly Maddox Training (Pleasanton, CA)
Great for: Competitive hunter/jumper riders, equitation riders
Disciplines: Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation
Why You’ll Love It: One of the most well-respected hunter/jumper programs in the East Bay, Kelly Maddox Training (KMT) is known for producing riders who excel at local and national competitions. With top-level coaching and a strong focus on correct riding, this barn is ideal for serious equestrians.
📍 Location: Pleasanton, CA
5️⃣ La Jolla Equestrian Academy
Great for: Riders competing at rated shows
Disciplines: Hunters, Jumpers, Equitation, Dressage
Why You’ll Love It: La Jolla Equestrian Academy is a well-established program for riders aiming to excel in A-circuit competitions with expert coaching and high-level horses.
📍 Location: Pleasanton, CA
6️⃣ Four Star Farm (Pleasanton, CA)
Great for: Show Jumping, Dressage & Eventing riders, competition-focused training
Disciplines: Dressage, Eventing, Show Jumping
Why You’ll Love It: For riders interested in show jumping, dressage or three-day eventing, Four Star Farm provides expert coaching and structured programs to help riders progress through the levels.
📍 Location: Pleasanton, CA
🌟 Finding the Right Barn for You
Whether you’re looking for a fun hobby or serious competition training, Tassajara Valley has outstanding equestrian programs for every level. Each barn has its own unique training philosophy, so visiting, meeting the trainers, and watching a lesson can help you find the best fit.
Looking for a horse property in Tassajara Valley? As a real estate agent specializing in equestrian properties, I can help you find the perfect home with barns, pastures, arenas, and trail access to support your riding lifestyle.
Thinking about moving to a horse-friendly property? Let’s talk!