Founded by equine expert Sharon North-Pohl, who draws on more than 20 years of experience in training and rescuing horses, Willow Pond Ranch's trainers provide rich educational experiences during lessons and day camps. At the redwood-ensconced ranch’s riding school, students are matched with one of 17 gentle horses and ponies after instructors consider skill level, personality, and quality of whinny. The covered riding arena enables educational trotting even when rabid snowflakes are on the prowl in the scenic foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, where the horse-rescuing ranch nestles its stables.