My family and I arrived to the stables and we were a bit worried because it had been raining all afternoon and we weren't sure if we would be able to ride the trail. Grindstone riders were very happy to see us! They picked out horses for us and we super nice! We had a reservation for 9 horses but the day before we added 3 more. So they were pretty flexible about that which was really great for us. For those of us who have never ridden a horse before they gave us a quick lesson before we started the trail. May I also mentioned we had a 4 year old amongst or midst. Our wrangler/trail guide Crystal was SUPER patient and very sweet to my baby sister. It was very much appreciated. Crystal our trail guide did an awesome job taking us around the trail. She made conversation with us and took some time to learn about our big awkward family and we learned a bit about her as well. I think that made the ride fun as well. We had two other guides riding along with us and they were super friendly and cheerful. It was an awesome experience and the riders and stable hands were all extremely nice, friendly and patient with us. With 12 people it could be a handful but Grindstone Stables did an excellent job. I definitely want to go back again and make it a tradition. Also goodluck Crystal at your new school in Roswell!
We had a large group of 12 and they did an awesome job with us. They were all really nice and personable. The scenery is amazing! A must do!!
Our visit was actually in September 2012, while stationed at Ft. Bliss. We too,were caught offguard by the "cash only" of this establishment, but luckily they took checks! I haven't regularly ridden in years...and found the staff helpful and courteous when it came to having a horse selected for me and my husband. Granted, this ride was a typical "nose to tail" ride for those with little or no experience...so those who are bonafied expert riders who want to gallup across the plains or mountain, forget it. The owner/wife were polite and professional, the staff helpful and knowledgeable about the area. The views from the trail were OUTSTANDING, and the staff willing to assist with pictures before, during, and after the ride. Enjoy!
We have been going to grindstone stables for many years now . Plus we have taken many of their sleigh rides . The horses are well mannered and very fit for the terrain that they cover . The owners and the wranglers are very knowledgable of horses and very helpful . We can't wait for our next trip .
My boyfriend and I came here on March 30, 2014 to try horse a k riding for the first time. We had a blast! The horses were amazing, the scenery from the trail was beautiful, and the wranglers were spectacular! All of the wranglers were very personable and talked to and looked after us the entire ride. I especially liked that there were children out there with us and they (the wranglers) took special care to make sure they were looked after. We will DEFINITELY be coming back here to ride again.
Same as any other riding stable over priced n sad horses they have been down the same trail all their life's and will not get off it. Guess it's perfect for someone that has never been on a horse.
As a past, present and future customer of Grindstone Stables, I highly recommend a trail ride and sleigh ride with GS while in Ruidoso. The owners of GS are the biggest horses lovers this Texas Gal has ever met and their horses prove that. The views from the Mountain on the trail ride and the Christmas lights and warm blanket on the sleigh ride (snow or no snow) make for a fabulous vacation stop while in Ruidoso. And the best part, the horses are beautiful and majestic so just watching them run and play on the Mountain are some of the best pictures you'll ever take if you're a horse lover!
Our extended family had a great experience at Grindstone Stables!There were 12 of us, ranging in age from 4 to 50 years old, most with no previous riding experience, and we all had a great time! The staff were super friendly and welcoming and helpful. They were even able to help with a last-minute change in our plans and accommodate a request for additional horses. The price was a great bargain! You pay a flat rate per horse, in cash, and give the guides tips.Our wranglers were fun company on the trail. The horses knew their business and calmly helped us beginners. The scenery was great, and the temperature in Ruidoso was very nice for a summer afternoon ride. We will definitely come back again!
My 8 year old and I absolutely loved riding horses at Grindstone. The wranglers were all amazing and helpful. They picked the perfect horses for everyone. The views were beautiful as well. I would highly recommend them.
We went up to Ruidoso and spent about five days, we went about everywhere and the Grindstone Stables was probably our favorite. The horses are super friendly and beautiful they have lots of color and lots of paints! :) Gorgeous view of the pines and outdoors like you can't believe! The people there are amazing super sweet, funny, caring, etc made the trip worth while!! Thank you!