Recently, our ranch experienced a devastating loss.  During a recent snowstorm, the roof of our covered arena collapsed under the weight of heavy snow.  In that collapse, we lost a life.  Apache, a most beloved horse, was fatally injured in the devastation. Apache lived at Hidden Gait Ranch for over 18 years. He was more than a horse. He was a teacher, a steady partner, and a quiet source of confidence for countless children. He carried nervous beginners with patience. He helped young riders find their balance, not just in the saddle, but within themselves. His presence shaped lives in ways that are impossible to measure.  His passing will be felt forever at the ranch.

During the collapse, another horse, Deedee, was trapped beneath the debris. With the guidance of David Korn and the heroic efforts of our local fire department, she was freed. She suffered physical injuries and emotional stress, but is recovering.  She showed such calm and resolve during the ordeal that it was impossible to believe that she wasn’t waiting for her humans to save her.  She is a living reminder of resilience and the incredible will to survive.

The covered arena that collapsed was more than a structure. It was the beating heart of the ranch.

It provided an area for injured and rehabilitating horses to heal.  The safe, soft surface gave horses with laminitis the hope of recovery.  It provided rescue horses a place to shelter in a storm.  Riders were able to continue their quest for increased ability and understanding despite rain, snow, or blazing summer sun. 
It hosted riding and drill practice teams.  It was a place where confidence and skills were built quietly, one stride at a time.

Hidden Gait Ranch has always been about the well-being of horses and the human growth that follows. We have created an atmosphere of compassion, responsibility, and respect for these incredible animals.

In honoring Apache, we are committed to rebuilding our covered arena so that we may continue our commitment to caring, healing, and understanding horses.  Our riders, young and old,  will be able to continue their journey in the love of horses.

This Phase One campaign will focus on stabilizing the site and initiating the arena's rebuild.

Funds raised will support:

• Safe demolition and debris removal
• Structural engineering and rebuild planning
• Rebuilding a strong, safe arena for multiple purposes
• Continued equine rehabilitation care
• Replacement of our shelter for rescue horses during inclement weather  * Program continuity for students and riding teams
• The creation of the Apache Legacy Program in honor of the amazing horse and his legacy.

It is going to take a village to complete this project.  This fundraiser is not just about construction; 
it is about rebuilding a future where riders can learn courage, empathy, responsibility, and stewardship.
It is about children having a space to learn about themselves and the wonderful world of horses.  It is about horses having a safe, nurturing home where they can be themselves and share themselves with the people who love them.

Hidden Gait Ranch needs people like you who represent caring, strength, and the ability to give from your heart.  If you believe in the quiet power of horses to shape strong, compassionate humans, and in people giving back to these amazing creatures, please join us in this important project. Any donation, large or small, will help in this monumental endeavor.

Please help us keep the hoofbeats and heartbeats alive at Hidden Gait Ranch.  Thank you for your kindness, your support, and your understanding at this most difficult time.  The future can be bright with your help.

With gratitude,
Nicole Schoppe
Hidden Gait Ranch.

Below are comments from people who ride or have ridden at Hidden Gait Ranch, as well as from others who love and appreciate horses and the work we do.

Ari, 11 years old: “People do lots of fun sports,and they enjoy them. I did lots of sports to, I never stuck to one, I did gymnastics, basketball, softball, cheerleading. But I did not love them. I wanted to do something I loved and pour my heart into. I was tired of siting at home all day doing nothing in my sweats. Until my friend Kensi showed me horse back ridding at Hidden Gait Ranch. I did it for a while and I loved it! I always looked forward to doing it every time. Nothing will stop me from ridding those horses and they have really changed my life. Horses are more amazing than you think. Thank you David, Nicole and Harry❤️ for changing not just me but showing me what more is in the world!”

Courtney Miller: Mother/horsewoman:

Hidden Gait Ranch came into my life when we needed it the most. I scheduled a riding lesson my for daughter and myself for her 8th birthday. She and I quickly fell in love with the lessons and the wonderful horses. It became a sanctuary for us. A place where we could make memories together. A place where we could go on hard days. A place where we could fail and grow without being judged. A place where she has grown into a brave and responsible young lady. A place where a stay at home mom can turn her horse girl dreams into reality without judgement.

Dave, Nicole and Harry become family to all those who they welcome to the ranch. They love,nurture, and respect their horses better than most. Our hearts are breaking at the massive loss of Apache, the arena, and the uncertainty of a place that holds the most special place in our hearts.

We hope the community will stand with Hidden Gait Ranch, and allow these amazing horses to continue to powerfully change lives.

Arya Willis - 12 years old

“Apache was the first horse I’ve ever ridden. He taught me things no other horse could. He will always be in my heart. I love riding at Hidden Gait Ranch and they truly make me feel like part of their family.”

Sheryl Willis - Mother / horse lover

“Both of my daughters learned to ride at Hidden Gait Ranch, and the experience has shaped them in the most beautiful ways. Through their time at the ranch, they’ve gained confidence, responsibility, patience, and a deep respect for these incredible animals.

Apache held a special place in their hearts. He was the first horse they ever rode and loved. He helped build their skills in the saddle, but more importantly, he helped nurture their love for horses. The bond they formed with him, and with the other horses at the ranch is something they will carry with them for life.

Hidden Gait Ranch isn’t just a place to ride, it’s a place where children grow, learn compassion, and develop a lifelong love for horses.”

Kathy Whitehill - 13 year old student

“For almost three years, Hidden Gait Ranch has been my safe place. From the moment I arrive, the people and the horses make me feel truly loved, accepted, and understood. It feels like a second home to me. I’ve always loved animals, but my connection with horses is something really special. Being at the ranch has taught me so much more than just riding; it has taught me patience, trust, and confidence, lessons I carry with me into my everyday life. On days when I feel overwhelmed or upset, going to the barn and spending even a few quiet minutes with the horses can completely change how I feel. They bring me peace and comfort in a way nothing else can. Through the years, both the people and the horses at Hidden Gait Ranch have helped shape who I am, and I will always be grateful for the love, support, and sense of belonging I’ve found there.”

Bernadette Bezy- Mother / horsewoman

“Our family—three generations strong—has flourished at Hidden Gait Ranch under Nicole, Dave, and their team. Since joining three years ago, my mother (84) and my children (13, 11, and 7) have grown in confidence and resilience. Forrest, at age four, gained courage and showcased his progress at the Nevada County Fair. Oliver, now 11, learned sportsmanship and empathy, while our daughter (13) found stability and focus through lessons with the horses. As a working mom, I’ve deepened my connection with my kids, and my mother found healing and joy after her husband’s passing. We are grateful for Nicole, Dave, and their family's dedication to our community and the opportunities they provide.”

Marie Chance - Reno, NV

“I have known Nicole Schoppe and David and Harrison Korn of Hidden Gait Ranch since about 2015 when I came to take lessons with Nicole.  I soon discovered a kindred spirit in Nicole as we shared that love of horses that speaks to many of us. With her,  my horses and I built our confidence and skills and I had loads of fun participating in the Gait Squad at the Nevada County Fair. I saw also that there,  the focus  was all about developing the relationship between horse and human, putting the horse first and having fun. That philosophy carried into the programs they have developed for kids. Nicole and David and Hidden Gait Ranch have been an integral part of the Grass Valley community for many years. The catastrophe that destroyed the arena will also destroy something that is precious, unique, and uplifting to so many.  These days our communities need places and programs that allow us, and especially our kids, to enjoy these kinds of experiences. Please join me in supporting Nicole, David and Harrison in their efforts to rebuild this special place. No gift is too small. “

Kathleen Bezy (Bernadette’s mom)

“Dear Dave  Nicole and Harry, 

You and your horses have been such a help to me with  processing my Grief over the recent  loss of my husband of 

63 years last August.  I never expected that riding in your  arena would bring me such cheer and renewal. 

 

You had wonderful patience with an 84 yr old Grandma, renewing my confidence in horseback riding, after so many years. Also, Nicole, your generous welcome to participate with your family in the barn activities, awoke the joy in simple activities that inspired me how to 

re-engage & appreciate simple moments.  

 

I would call your kindness a great Kick-start to the rest of the my life.  Not only that, but I realized that Three Generations

of the Bezy-Bremmer Family fit together quite well under your encouraging guidance. I think you took that photo! 

 

It is so sad to think of the loss and injury to your animals during this storm. I look forward to returning to your Arena and helping out in any way I can in the rebuilding of your family dreams.  May God Bless you. “

Claudia Booth - Meadow Vista, CA

“Why help? Why donate?

First, the tragic death of Apache is a loss to all young kids wanting to learn to ride. He was a horse who taught you, he wanted a partner not a passenger, so he taught you to ride. Nicole called me one day about ten years ago, Claudia, I'm short a rider on my drill team and we are performing at the Nevada County Fair. I'll put you on Apache, he knows the pattern. I said OK, when is the fair. She says three weeks, don't worry, Apache knows the pattern. That meant three practices for me, good golly. I accepted, Apache knew the pattern and we did fine. The next year I came back to the drill team and have been a rider since.

Second, through the years of being a team member of Gaited Drill Team, I watched the students of David and Nicole's riding lessons join our drill team. Some as young as nine. At first their self confidence is low and they are shy. Then I watched them bloom, becoming self confident, caring and responsible. I have watched them grow and benefit from Nicole and David's lessons into adults today. I’ve seen students staying for their entire youth, increasing their riding ability, self confidence and responsibilities.

The covered area has provided them a place to ride in our hot summers, but even more important, a place to ride during our winter season. There is a shortage of covered arenas and this arena has allowed us to gather to ride all year long. This is a family owned local business that benefits our local children and adults in the community, no matter if you ride horses or just enjoy the performance at the fair. Please donate what you can, any little bit will be a blessing on this huge road to rebuilding.”

 

Lyn Montgomery - Fallbrook, CA

“I’m incredibly thankful for the time I’ve spent at Hidden Gait Ranch. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside David and Nicole in gaited horse rescue efforts, attending educational clinics, and even judging a schooling show for them. The ranch is truly a special place—for both the horses and the students who learn and grow there. Their dedication, knowledge, and genuine care create an environment where both horse and rider can thrive.”

Adelyne, 18 years old:

“Hidden Gait Ranch has been a part of my life since I was 5 years old, and it has always felt like my second home. Apache was the first horse who truly changed me—he was patient, kind, and somehow always knew when I needed a little extra love and confidence. He didn’t just teach me how to ride; he taught me how to be brave, responsible, and to believe in myself in and out of the saddle.

The care that Dave, Nicole, and Harry pour into their horses is incredible; they treat every horse like family and work tirelessly to make sure they are healthy, safe, and deeply loved. Because of them, and because of horses like Apache, so many kids and adults have found a place where they feel seen, supported, and welcomed just as they are.

Losing Apache and the arena is heartbreaking, and it feels like losing a piece of my childhood and a piece of our community. I’m so grateful for everything Apache and Hidden Gait Ranch have given me, and I hope we can come together to help them rebuild, so more lives can be touched the way mine has been.”

“I started riding again about 3 years ago after decades of being away from horses. The support and instruction that I have received from Nicole and David at Hidden Gait Ranch got me back in the saddle and gave me the confidence I needed to get back into the world of horses. I will be forever grateful. I have 2 horses that live at Hidden Gait Ranch. Ryder and Ranger are loved there and given the absolute best care I can imagine. The loss of Apache is a tragedy. He was a wonderful asset to the ranch in every way a horse could be. His presence, patience, and amazing personality will be forever missed. Deedee, the hose that was injured in the arena collapse showed such grace in the face of catastrophe. She waited patiently to be rescued amidst the chaos. The loss of the arena is the loss of memories, the loss of a safe haven for learning and training, and the loss of a shelter for rescued horses in bad weather and injured horses on the road to recovery. Trying to acquire the necessary funds to rebuild a strong, safe, covered arena is going to take a monumental effort from everyone associated with Hidden Gait Ranch and everyone that reads this story and knows the power of love, loss, and the greatness of horses. I do not want to lose the family I chose ... Nicole, David, Harry, and all the horses and riders at Hidden Gait Ranch. I will do everything I can to support the rebuild effort. I hope with all my heart that others will join in to rebuild a treasured arena and keep Apache's spirit alive in doing so”

Lynda Sibbald-Twist - Nevada City

“In the spring of 2015 , my horse Pride suffered a severe laminitis attack. I had met Nichole Schoppe through the Tennessee Walker shows and had heard her talk about the Keystone process that she and her husband had developed to help horses with laminitis. My horse was down and unable to stand up due to the severity of her laminitis when I called Nichole for help. She did not hesitate and drove 2 1/2 hours to my home to help Pride. She gave my horse a shot of banamine and said some prayers and managed to get my horse to stand up once more. She loaded Pride into her trailer and amazingly my horse was able to stand for the entire trip back to Nichole‘s home. She had a fabulous covered Arena with a soft dirt flooring and managed to get her inside. Pride immediately laid down and did not want to get back up so her husband David applied the Keystone product to her feet while she was laying down. After allowing her to rest for a while. They got her to stand back up. They kept her for approximately three months and totally rehabbed my horse inside this wonderful arena. Pride came home, totally sound and went on to be used as a mount for beginners on the trail and in the arena. I still have her and she will be 25 years at the end of the year. I can never thank Nichole and David enough for all that they did for Pride as I would most likely have lost her. Having this covered arena as a wonderful tool to work with disabled horses, as well as work with children and adults alike to learn to ride at all times of the year, regardless of weather has been a godsend for many people.”

Bunny Lincoln

“I’ve watched Nicole teach horses and humans for 30 years now, and there’s no one better for her human or horse students. She has devoted her life to both, in the healthiest possible way. I’ve trusted her completely with my horses and my grandchild. As awful as this recent incident has been, I hope we can gather around her and her beloved critters to create a silver lining, and show her how much she, and Apache, and Lace, and their evolving herd have meant to us”

Lynne Bowman - Author/ health influencer Pescadero, CA