About Our Trainers

A person riding a black horse in an indoor equestrian arena, talking to two women wearing helmets and smiling.
A rider jumping over an obstacle on a white horse during an equestrian event outdoors.
A small, fluffy dog with a black and tan coat sitting on a carpet in front of a sink, wearing a collar and leash, and looking at the camera.

Head Trainer, Nicole Hunter

Becoming a trainer was something I fell into by surprise. I had always told myself that horses were my passion and I was so afraid that if I depended on them to survive, they would just become a job. However, I have come to find out that I was wrong. I have never found more joy in life than helping riders and their horses achieve their goals. My cup is the most full when I am riding and teaching. After years of hard work and learning, I am excited to start building my own dreams. I am so grateful for my amazing barn family who pushed me to be all that I can be!

Meet Winnie! Hunter Hills newest horse show puppy.

Horseback rider in helmet and riding attire jumping over a hurdle decorated with pink flowers, outdoors with green trees and trailers in the background.

Assistant Trainer, Erin Huffman

I have been fortunate to learn and train under many remarkable horsemen and women who have helped shape me into the rider and trainer I am today. The hard work and dedication it takes to be in this industry is inspiring. I love being able to give back even a small amount that I have been able to gain from those I’ve met and worked with over the years. Being able to share and translate the knowledge gained through my riding, working with the horses, and teaching our clients is incredibly rewarding. We are so blessed to have the most incredible barn family and to share our passions, love for the horses, and this sport together.

Hunter Hills Testimonials

  • A girl in riding gear and a helmet is riding a brown horse over a green and white jump in an equestrian show jumping event.

    Highly recommend riding and training with Nicole Hunter and her staff. Extremely helpful and knowledgeable throughout the process of purchasing a new horse and kept me riding/showing while we were looking for my forever horse. The Hunter Hills community is so great. Cannot say enough good things!

    Carly Cipolla, Client

  • A rider and a horse in an indoor show jumping competition, mid-jump over a colorful obstacle with butterfly wings decorations, surrounded by plants.

    I have been riding for 25 years in a variety of disciplines. I have learned from several talented people along the way, but I can honestly say that riding with Nicole has elevated my knowledge and understanding of horses to a whole different level. If you are looking for someone who does things the right way for the right reasons and who will always take the time to show you the how, and the why, then you need to ride with Nicole. I am blessed to continue to learn from her and her team and am so fortunate to be part of the Hunter Hills Family.

    Kristina Harrington, Client & Equine Massage Therapist for Hunter Hills

  • A female equestrian rider in a black helmet and dark jacket jumping over a wooden obstacle on a brown horse in an outdoor arena surrounded by green trees.

    Absolutely the best! Nicole is extremely talented, knowledgeable, and provides excellent training for you and your horse. Hunter Hills provides top notch care for your horses. As a bonus the barn family here is the best and are constantly so supportive of one another. My horse and I absolutely love Hunter Hills!

    Meredith Darke, Client

  • A woman in light-colored pants and a gray t-shirt holding the reins of a brown horse with a green saddle pad, smiling with a young boy in a white helmet and riding gear sitting on the horse, with another woman in a white cap and black shirt assisting. They are outdoors with trees in the background.

    If you’re looking for a personalized approach for you and your equine partner, training with Nicole is the best choice you can make! Phenomenal training, the best barn family, and top notch care.

    Erin Huffman, Assistant Trainer

  • A woman standing next to a brown horse with a blue ribbon award on its bridle at an outdoor equestrian event, on a sunny day with other horses and spectators in the background.

    After relocating to Michigan, I was lucky to join the Hunter Hills team and have loved the training style and community. Nicole found me the perfect lease option and works hard to meet each client’s needs and goals.

    Brette Gonda, Client

  • A young boy sitting on a black horse at a riding arena, with two women standing beside him, one holding the horse's reins, smiling, and another holding a riding helmet. There are flowers and other riders in the background.

    Nicole provides an atmosphere where everyone is welcome and valued, no matter what. She helps you get to the root of what you want our of your riding career, and develops a plan to help reach your goals. She is patient, ammy friendly, and fun! I am excited for my kids to grow up riding in her program!

    Melissa King, Client