About the Ranch
Apple Creek Stables has been teaching children and adults to ride since 2003. Apple Creek is tucked away creekside on the south end of Sebastopol; a little slice of horse paradise. We have lesson horses of all shapes and sizes who can't wait to teach you how to ride, or help you improve your skills.
Carol Fricke
head trainer
Carol has been working as a professional in the horse industry for 36 years and has a variety of experiences that she brings to her training at Apple Creek. Carol started out a western rider in her childhood, rode saddle seat, trained and showed Arabians, jumped, and she has spent the last 14 years as a dedicated Dressage rider.
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Carol's approach to horse and rider training centers on Natural Horsemanship, correct centered riding and the use of gentle aids. Carol believes in a harmonious relationship between horse and rider and fosters a learning environment that is supportive, adaptive, and focused on personal growth as a rider. Carol's training will adapt to each rider's personal interests and goals. She teaches the foundations of Dressage, Hunter/Jumper, Western Pleasure and basic equitation.
Meet the Team
Melissa Cook
Carol has been a wonderful instructor for both my 11 yr old son and myself ! We have been taking weekly riding lessons for the past 6 mo. I can already see an overall improvement in his confidence which carries over into everything he does. Her patient instruction, experience, and skill have given us both an instructor we trust and have fun with . I'm grateful to Apple Creek and Carol for our newfound love for riding and appreciation for horses .
Cori Stopek
Great price for an introduction to horseback riding. Their policies are incredibly kind to the horses, and I would be happy to return again and again. This is not a big commercial stable, support the amazing work being done here!
David Engel
Apple Creek offers a great environment to learn to ride and for summer camps. My daughter who is 9 years of age has thoroughly enjoyed her time at the camp and begs to return. The owner has established a great organization and facility. The staff is professional and very helpful. The horses are appropriately selected and well cared for. Most of all, everyone seems to enjoy what they are doing at Apple Creek and the welfare of each student is their primary concern. While I have to drive a significant distance to the stable, it is worth the drive. I heartily recommend Apple Creek.