Horseback riding vacations
in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains

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.

Village Riding Stables
Hwy. 19/74, Bryson City 28713 828-488-9649 or 828-488-8600
Guided trips in the Nantahala National Forest overlooking Fontana Lake & the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Reservations preferred. Open weekends April-May and September-October. Memorial Day-Labor Day full time.

Fontana Riding Stables
828-498-2211 Contact: ext. 272
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.

Smokemont Riding Stable
135 Smokemont Riding Stable Road, Cherokee, NC 28719 828-497-2373 Contact: Elizabeth Burns Cook
Enjoy scenic guided horseback riding within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Rides available for the beginner or experienced rider featuring wooded forests, wildflowers, river and waterfalls. An authorized concessioner of the National Park Service.