Running Horse Ranch - Lake Hughes, California

Sabrina Franz

As I am a very experienced rider, I was looking for a bit of adventure while riding on my vacation. Daniela was the right place for me. We covered about 10 miles, for which we met at 6 a.m. because the temperatures demanded it.

Daniela does a great job of explaining the surroundings and the riding conditions there. Due to the exciting terrain, which is a real challenge when it comes to trails, I didn't miss galloping, which is almost impossible in this rough terrain.

The horses are kind-hearted and beautifully ridden. Their sure-footedness is impressive, which makes it very easy to trust the horses. They know the terrain and know exactly where to go.

I would choose Daniela and her horses again at any time!
It's a "must" for experienced riders 🙂

C Bo

I decided to book the 5 day „Pacific Crest“ trail ride for experienced riders – and it turned out to be one of the best trail rides I ever did.
What is really important to me when booking such holidays is that the owners are real „horsemen“ and take good care of their horses. They did not disappoint me.

One thing you need to know upfront: Most of the rides are for truly experienced trail riders. Which is great if you do have this experience, because it´s no „nose-to-tail“ and therefore not suitable for beginners. I think they do offer beginners lessions on their farm as well. My suggestion is: Do yourself a favor and be honest to yourself in terms of your riding capabilities.

The horses:
Most of the horses are Mustangs, many of them born in the wild and domesticated later. They are extremely sure-footed and reliable, smart and very „rideable“.
They live in huge pastures in a big Group. On the first day, you spend some good time with them before going onto a trail – which is very good for building up some initial trust and understanding between rider and horse.

The rides:
We decided to ride in the early mornings, returning around lunch time. The afternoons were far too hot to continue riding - which allowed to spend some free time on the farm or in the L.A. area for the humans and some recovery for the horses.
Daniela doesn´t take the same trails every day, but also loads the horses onto her truck and drives to trails further away, which is nice in terms of variety of rides. It´s a very nice mixture of mountain climbing, tiny paths through bushes, nice trotts and canters.

The location:
The rooms are spacious and due to the remote location of the farm very quiet.
Beds are super comfortable, the shared kitchen and bathroom is equiped with everything needed.
They do also offer Quad-Tours etc. for non-riders.

The hosts:
Daniela is a German living in the US since many years, so you can communicate in german if you like / need to and of course in english.
She is very interested in getting a good connection to the guests, but absolutely respecting your privacy / relaxation time if you need it.

It might not be the cheapest offer you can get in this area – but to me, the good care for the horses (and for us ?) were definitely worth the price.

Noam Wolf

I surprise my husband with an ATV tour with the amazing Daniella. We were the only two people in the group. The tour was really cool! Very technical trails, beautiful views, we had so much fun. The Ranch also does horseback riding, so we'll have to come back. Thank you so much Daniella!

Detra Taylor

We booked ATV rides for 13 family members for my daughter’s birthday. When I tell you this was so fun! Safety was taught first but overall the staff was patient and friendly. It made our day awesome! I most definitely will return if we head back to LA.

Natalie

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! I can’t say enough about Daniela, her horses, and the experience out in the trails. The bond that Daniela has with her horses is incredible, and her horses treat her and all visitors so well in return. I went on the Full day ride, and it was truly unforgettable. I live nearby in Los Angeles, and had the option to sleep at the property or commute to the barn the morning of the ride. I chose the latter, and it was very easy to find the stables in the morning. I met Daniela at the barn, we met the horse I would ride (Pia) to get to know each other and develop a bond with that horse (this I really appreciated and made me feel very safe!). Daniela tacked up Pia, talked me through how Pia is to ride, and we took Pia into the arena to get to know her and warm up with walk/trot (note: I have many years of riding experience, and ride regularly). Daniela tackle up her horse, and we took to the trails. We rode for hours and had SO MUCH FUN!! The trails were technical and for intermediate/experienced riders. The horses are so safe. I can’t say enough about how kind/friendly Daniela is, and can’t recommend this experience enough. Safe to say, I will be back soon!! 😀

Grace A

I had an amazing experience riding with Daniela! Loved the horsey and the scenery and the full, thoughtful experience. Got to ride for several hours at a very managable price.

The location was beautiful and I'd love to come back. I will be recommending to anyone looking to ride in the LA area!

Halle Kleckley

I’ve road ATV’s in Jamaica and this actually topped it. Daniella, our instructor was the sweetest person. Very welcoming as soon as we stepped out the car. She gave great instructions before the ride. The actual tour itself was so adventurous. BEAUTIFUL scenic route. She took awesome pictures of us. This was the best experience I’ve ever had riding ATVs.

Krista Lambert

I did the Burnt Peak ride and absolutely loved it. I went in December so it was a little cold and windy but Daniela made sure I had warm clothes so I was comfortable. She takes the time to make sure you feel safe and comfortable with your horse before going out on the trails. You can tell that she takes very good care of her horses and trains them very well. I would love to go back some day!