The opinions stated in the previous review are mostly subjective and lack some background knowledge of the barn and how it operates.
This barn is a stronghold in the Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space District. The barn sustains support from its boarders in maintaining this space free from residential and commercial development. Boarders here have access to a varied network of trails that wind through vineyards both young and old, open meadows, lush redwood forest and delicate creek habitat and sweeping views of Lexington reservior, San Jose and the lower silicon valley. On any single trail ride (I ride 4-6 times per week) I have rarely run into another person, neither on foot or horseback. It is a privelege to occupy this space.
Hose management is rarely a profitable venture and this barn is no exception. It is owned and lovingly maintained by an equestrian who would rather save this gem for other equestrians to enjoy rather than sell out to make profit. In order to keep boarding fees reasonably priced, certain sacrifices are made in terms of arena footing (it is dirt, not ground rubber) and general building materials. There is a charm to this that helps underscore the mission of this barn--to SURVIVE and help keep supporting the open space. Several boarders are Open Space District Trail Patrol volunteers who help maintain the trails.
This is not a fussy show barn but an eclectic mix of people, both young and old. You may certainly train for events in one of two arenas but it is primarily a pleasure horse barn with 2 arenas and one round pen. The best feature is its proximity to downtown Los Gatos and the local schools despite being seemingly secluded in the middle of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
It is truly a gem of Los Gatos and I feel very fortunate to have discovered it.
Pros: good mgmt, FANTASTIC trails, not a fussy horse barn
Cons: needs quality dressage arena, more general help & advocacy
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