Deer Canyon Stables

Well, as promised, we were back at Deer Canyon Stables today. We had 4 «new» riders — two with some minimal experience, and two with none at all. Sharon is now working during the day, so she told us that Stephanie would be available. Stephanie, as the other reviewers indicated, is very professional, safe, and educational. We were there over two hours and all for of the girls (4 years old — 15 years old) had their turn, and had an EXCELLENT time. Everything from preparing the horse for the ride, through the ride, and then grooming after the ride were covered. All had a great time, and, on the way home, said they wanted to go back. Next visit to Austin — we’ll take them back to Deer Canyon Stables!!! Thanks Sharon, Stephanie and Jay. The grounds were well kept, the horses were beautiful, and the dogs very entertaining for those of us not riding :) I am getting real good at throwing rocks, balls and frisbees :)

I love Deer Canyon Stables! I nannied for a young girl who takes lessons here. Stephanie, the trainer, is very nice, funny, and educated about horses and riding. We NEVER felt like we were rushed through the hour session or that we did not get our money’s worth. Stephanie is also very safe and rescheduled when there were thunderstorms in the area. The horses are healthy and the stables are very clean– the view itself is beautiful! It’s a great area to either have a peaceful lesson among the hills or sit back and watch your children learn. One of the owners, Sharon, is the sweetest lady and was even checked on how the young girl’s lessons were getting on.
Overall, 5 stars and two thumbs up! I will even be returning to take my own adult lessons with Stephanie.

It has taken me a very long time to find a good barn that I have felt comfortable with. Believe me even in Austin there are some bad ones! So far I have no complaints with Stephanie, my trainer. I am currently wanting to expand more in western and Parelli, however Stephanie is wonderful to learn the foundation and traditions of horseback riding. I am honestly am very lucky to have found this place.
While horseback riding is unfortunately always expensive, this has been the most reasonably priced place I could find. I can tell you with confidence that the lower price has NOT meant that the quality suffers! I am never rushed through my lesson and I always learn a lot about a horse care as well is the riding part. Stephanie is very patient when I do silly things, and she is always paying attention and making sure that I am doing things the right way.
I could not be more pleased with how well maintained and clean this barn is. I believe that the owner (Jay) has built the stables himself and maintains them as well. I have been in many barns that have been literally crawling with bugs, spiders, webs, filth, and dust that would make my skin crawl and really give the impression that the owners just didn’t care. I understand it’s a barn and not the inside of Martha Stewart home, however there still should be some pride and manner of cleanliness within. If I don’t want to be around the filth and the bad air, why would I want my horse to be around it?
All of the arenas and round pens are in fantastic condition. The owners and the trainers are very adamant about keeping things organized and clean and in good condition. No arguments here!
I do not yet own my own horse but I do plan on owning mine within the next 3 years. So I can not testify to the quality of the trails, however for what it is worth the horses here seem healthy, happy, and well taken care of. They also have some of the most reasonably priced boarding rates in greater Austin. As long as my prices are not raised, and the quality of the facility and training remains as excellent as it is now, I forsee acquiring my own horse in the future and boarding many years here.