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Fun Family-Friendly Horse Boarding Near Salt Lake City

Not every horse owner wants a spacious and pricey equestrian center to satisfy their horse-owning needs. Many riders prefer a fun, casual environment that allows them to interact with other friendly, hands-on horse people.

Check out D& M Stables at 2355 Rose Park Lane  in Salt Lake City, UT. You can contact owner Dick Bowden at 801-550-5247. A terrific, helpful guy and accomplished roper, he'll be happy to answer your questions. Stalls are roomy and the facility offers two well-groomed, well-lit outdoor arenas and a big indoor arena with nice, well-maintained footing.

There is plenty of tack space, two round pens and even a couple of turn out pens. With chickens, goats and sheep on site, this warm and welcoming barn is one of Salt Lake's best kept equestrian secrets.

With no on-site trainers, D & M boarders enjoy a relaxed, playful and non-competitive environment. Board is very affordable for those who are willing to roll up their sleeves and help clean their own stalls (and, for a reasonable fee you can get assistance with that task from barn management).

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For those who live a little further south and prefer scenic trail rides, we recommend SunnyBrook Farm on 1225 E (just off of 10600) in Sandy. Stalls are tidy and feature quality sand footing - a terrific way to maintain healthy hoofs. Most boarders clean their own stalls. It's just a short jaunt to Dimple Dell trails. Barn owner Christie can answer your questions at (801) 452-5224, and if you're in the market for some unique poultry, this is your gal. Check out her selection of poultry ribbons from the State fair!

Looking for a kid-friendly barn near SW Salt Lake? Visit Vista Farms at 9363 S, 3400 West. This always-active stable has on-site instructors and safe lesson horses for your little ones, if you need a place where riding and horse-handling instruction are preferred. On-site schooling shows are regularly scheduled and boarders of all ages participate in english and western disciplines. This is a full service barn (no self-care options). Owner Steve can be reached at 801-633-8981.

It's easy to keep your local horse activities fun and affordable when you settle into your ideal boarding environment!

, Salt Lake City Equestrian Examiner

Sarah Robertson is a frequently published freelance writer, painter, riding instructor and natural horsemanship trainer. Her articles have appeared in major magazines and various websites while her artwork has been featured in gallery exhibits in Seattle, Salt Lake and Boston. Influenced by her...

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