Horseback Riding

A great way to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Smoky Mountains is by horseback riding. Several stables and outfitters offer guided horse rides through areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, following trails that lead to waterfalls, through streams or along scenic ridges and panoramic vistas of mountains and lakes.

Horseback treks are generally available from one to four hours. Or you can experience the adventure of overnight camping trips lasting two to four days. You should check with individual stables to learn what riding options each offers.

If you like traveling with your own horses, the Great Smokies and the Nantahala National Forest offer excellent horseback riding trails. You can ride a different trail every day. There are facilities where you can stable your horses, and ride your favorite trails. To find out more about the trails in the area you can contact the Nantahala National Forest at 828-479-6431 or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 865-436-1231.

Fontana Riding Stables (828-498-2211 or 828-479-8911) - Experience the Smokies by horseback. See remnants of an old settlement left behind by the Fontana Dam workers. View Fontana Dam on a two hour ride, four hour and all day trips also available.

Nantahala Village Riding Stable (828-488-9649 or 828-488-2903) - Open April-May & Sept.-October, Friday, Saturday & Sundays 10:am to 5:00pm. Open FULL TIME Memorial Day through Labor Day 9:00am to 6:30pm.