New Heights Training Stable, Pleasanton

Amid sun-drenched hills, New Heights Training Stables' long barn and training facility stretch out under the giant sky. The stable is a one-stop shop for everything horsey, with a covered arena, outdoor jumping arena, dressage court, and cross-country course. Here, instructors train equestrians of all ages in a variety of disciplines, teaching them beginner skills—such as taking the reigns—and advanced skills—including leaping over fences to save princesses. Led by head trainer David Acord, the instructors also teach students horse-care skills and train the horses themselves. Those who have their own horses can board them in one of the many roomy stalls, where mares and stallions alike are treated to high-quality hay, fresh bedding, and daily turnouts into the surrounding pastures.