I moved to Michigan from a state where hour long horse trail rides through state parks cost $15-20 for walk-ins. These places are open all day morning to evening, and you can use your credit card.
I mistakenly assumed the stables here would be similar. So after being surprised at the very limited hours, I invited friends and took my family. Only to find they only accept cash, and the price is exhorbitant β $45 for one ride???! This means an average size family has to shell out $180 just to take their two kids horseback riding??!
Um, no.
Sure, I can afford to pay this. But I refuse to, just for the point of it. As did the family who came to join us there. So we all turned around and left. I have no interest in returning. Is this supposed to be a park and horse stable only for the elite?
Furthermore, I own a house nearby and my kids go to school in Michigan and weβre Michigan residents, but Iβm not eligible to pay the $16 all-park entrance fee. Instead, we have to pay $9 every time we enter, since we have out-of-state plates.
Um, no.
We pay Michigan taxes and live nearby, but will not be enjoying this park. Weβll just keep driving past and wondering why they decided to turn it into an elite club.
I come from a family of equestrians, my cousins have worked at stables and as trail ride leaders at state parks. I know this business. What they charge is ridiculous.
Solidarity with the average people who canβt afford this! No...
Β Β Β Read moreIf you are looking for a safe and fun experience (and a perfect way to break the pandemic blues), I encourage you to make an appointment for a ride. Whether you come with friends, or your kids, or just by yourself, you will be welcomed and enjoy a beautiful ride through the woods of the park. Kim (owner) and her family really care for their horses like family members and are committed to sharing their love of riding with newbies and experienced riders alike. I went for a peaceful ride yesterday on a lovely Roan named "Romeo". From my perch in the saddle I spied many forest floor wildflowers starting their blooming cycle. I saw "Spring Beauty" (Dainty pale-white and pink flowers), "Dutchman's breeches" (white flowers shaped like tiny upside down pantaloons), "Mayapples" (bright green umbrellas that hide an "apple" shaped white flower underneath), "Marsh Marigold" (bright yolk colored flowers), and the "Trillium" is getting ready to bloom in a few weeks. Kim and her family have been operating the Maybury Riding Stable for years. And I can testify that there are no better horse-people (or even people-people) around. I have know Kim since 1998 when I trusted my first horse to her loving...
Β Β Β Read moreMy husband surprised me for my birthday with this experience. I must say this was a very wonderful experience. The staff was very patient, everything was very clearly explained and were priced very well for what we got
It was very hot outside. I mean extremely hot. So I was a little apprehensive at first because I wasn't sure how the horses would feel. That and I felt like I was going to fall off at first. Its definitely an adjustment if you've never been on alone. But the staff really takes care of the horses. They were happy you could tell. They all in all seemed to be in a pleasant mood from start to finish.
My horses name was Hogan. Very sweet yet bossy big boy. My husband and I were on a private ride. The instructor was very clear on what to do as far as steering the horses and emphasized keeping space. Flash, my husbands riding horse, was a little eager and kept getting a little close to Hogan. The instructor explained horses like their space. And kept an eye on Flash lol. She was very professional and made me feel secure and safe because she was very vocal. We will definitely be returning and may bring the...
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