Horseback riding in the Smoky Mountains is one of the most fun things to do, a truly great way to see all the area around your Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin rental.
image courtesy of Equitrekking
There are lots of riding stables and a wonderful variety of terrain throughout all the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. You can pick a trail ride that suits all your family members, from youngest to eldest, many with guided tours and even dinners by a campfire.
Be sure to ask us for our recommendations when you make your reservations with Gatlinburg Falls Resort. We’ve compiled a list of some of the stables below. And here’s a typical review of a local riding stable, by our very own Carrie Waxler:
My daughter and I rode over the summer at the Sugarlands Riding Stables. The horses and leaders were very experienced and took into consideration how much experience each rider had when choosing a horse and position in the line. The trail was great in the summer because it was shaded and through the forest. We rode up to the top of the ridge and back down. The trail was very safe and well traveled. The horses were very steady on their feet. Sugarlands Riding stables is open through the end of November. We would definitely go back.
image courtesy of Sugarlands
Riding Stables in the Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg Area
Walden Creek Riding Stables
www.WaldenCreekStables.com
865-429-0443
500 Acres. 100 Horses. 50 Cowboys. Bonfire supper. Hayride. Gunfight shoot-out. All in a day at Walden Creek Stables. Ride next to nature on a horse through breathtaking views atop mountains, through clear mountain streams, and green pastures.
“Walden Creek offers an escape to a simpler, friendlier time. Take a fun-filled horseback ride, a laid-back carriage ride, view horse training from our observation deck, or just relax on the ranch. Then visit our new petting farm before our bonfire hayride and supper show, complete with gunfights, horse races, fast draws, and singing cowboys. Walden Creek Riding Stables is not just another place to ride horses. Open seven days a week, year-round. For all ages.”
Middle Creek Stables
1/2 mile past Dollywood
Phone: (865) 428-8363
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cades Cove, near Townsend, TN (865) 448-6286
Also offers hayrides and carriage rides.
Smoky Mountain, near Gatlinburg, TN (865) 436-5634
Smoky Mountain Stables and Cades Cove offers experienced guides on all rides. One hour, two hour, and half day rides for ages 6 and up. If you wish to rent a horse, horseback riding by the hour is available at commercial stables located in the park from mid-March through late November. There are three stables in the park where you can rent horses. Rates average $20 per hour. Weight limits and age restrictions may apply.
Douglas Lake View Riding Stables 865-428-3587
The trails at Douglas Lake View Riding Stables offer panoramic views of Douglas Lake and the Smoky Mountain ranges. Their trails are real back country primitive mountain trails. They offer trail rides ranging from one, two or four hours. Longer rides can be arranged also. Ride along the beautiful scenic shoreline of Douglas Lake, in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Douglas Lake View Riding Stables also offer Sunset and Moonlight rides, as well as Horseback Weddings, Pontoon Boat Weddings and various other wedding packages.
McCarter’s Riding Stables 865-436-5354
Hwy 441 South
Gatlinburg, TN
Established in 1931, McCarter’s Riding Stables offers great adventures in the Smokies. Travel scenic trails with native guides deep into the National Park to areas you wouldn’t easily see on foot. Gentle trail horses, group rides and lead horses for children are available. Witness the serene beauty of the Smokies with the professionals of McCarter’s Riding Stables.
Five Oaks Riding Stables 865-453-8644
1628 Parkway
Sevierville, TN
Five Oaks Riding Stables is located in Sevierville in the beautiful foothills of the Smoky Mountains. The trails will take you through scenic forest coves and majestic hilltops that afford views of the mountains.
“All of our horses are chosen with the comfort of you, our guest, in mind. Our guides are some of the most knowledgeable and skilled riders around. We offer several rides, so whether it is a leisure trail ride for half of an hour or hour, we can saddle up to your needs. Your comfort and enjoyment are our priority.”
Davy Crocket Riding Stables Phone: (865) 448-6411
505 Old Cades Cove Rd.
Townsend, TN 37882
Next to Heaven Stables
Highway 321
Townsend, TN
Phone: (865) 448-9150
