Horse Riding in Tennessee: Top Trails and Tips

Tennessee is known for its beautiful landscapes, and what better way to explore it than on horseback? Horse riding is an activity that allows you to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Tennessee’s countryside. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the state’s natural beauty on horseback.

Tennessee offers a variety of horse riding experiences, from trail rides to lessons and even overnight camping trips. With over 50 parks and recreation areas, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the state’s natural beauty on horseback. Some of the most popular trails include the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, the Natchez Trace Parkway, and the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. These trails offer a range of difficulty levels, from easy to challenging, so there is something for everyone.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing ride through the countryside or a more challenging adventure, horse riding in Tennessee is an experience you won’t forget. With so many options to choose from, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore the state’s natural beauty on horseback. So saddle up and get ready to experience the beauty of Tennessee from a whole new perspective.

Exploring Tennessee on Horseback

Tennessee is a beautiful state with a diverse range of landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty is on horseback. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, there are plenty of options for horseback riding in Tennessee. Here are some of the best ways to explore Tennessee on horseback.

Trail Riding

Trail riding is a popular way to explore Tennessee’s natural beauty on horseback. There are many trails throughout the state, ranging from easy to challenging, and they offer a variety of landscapes to explore. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a top destination for trail riding in Tennessee, with over 550 miles of trails. Other popular trails include the Natchez Trace Parkway and the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park.

Mountain Rides

For a more challenging ride, consider a mountain ride in Tennessee. The state is home to the Appalachian Mountains, which offer some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain in the country. There are many outfitters that offer guided mountain rides in Tennessee, including the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables and the East Fork Stables.

City Horseback Rides

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Tennessee’s cities, consider a city horseback ride. Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga all offer guided horseback rides through their city streets. These rides offer a unique perspective on the city and its history, and they’re a great way to experience Tennessee’s urban areas in a new way.

In conclusion, Tennessee offers a variety of options for horseback riding, from trail riding in the mountains to city rides through its urban areas. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in Tennessee. So saddle up and explore all that this beautiful state has to offer on horseback.

Understanding Horse Riding

Horse riding is a popular activity in Tennessee, with a variety of horse breeds and riding styles available to suit riders of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there is a style of horse riding that will suit your needs.

Horse Breeds

There are many different breeds of horses available for riding in Tennessee, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular breeds include:

• Morgan: Known for their versatility and gentle temperament, Morgans are a popular choice for trail riding and dressage.

• Quarter Horse: These horses are known for their speed and agility, making them a popular choice for Western riding and rodeo events.

• Tennessee Walking Horse: These horses are known for their smooth gait, making them a popular choice for trail riding.

Riding Styles

There are several riding styles available in Tennessee, each with its own unique set of techniques and equipment. Some popular riding styles include:

• Dressage: This style of riding focuses on precise movements and control, with riders performing a series of predetermined movements in a specific order.

• Western Riding: This style of riding is popular in rodeo events, with riders using a Western saddle and performing a series of maneuvers such as barrel racing and pole bending.

• Trail Riding: This style of riding is popular for leisurely rides through scenic areas, with riders using a variety of equipment such as English or Western saddles.

Riding Levels

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there are riding levels available to suit your needs. Some popular levels include:

• Beginner: This level is designed for those who are new to horse riding, with lessons focused on basic riding techniques and safety.

• Intermediate: This level is designed for those who have some experience with horse riding and are looking to improve their skills.

• Experienced: This level is designed for those who have extensive experience with horse riding and are looking to compete in various events.

Overall, horse riding in Tennessee is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and experience the beauty of the state. With a variety of breeds, riding styles, and levels available, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Top Riding Stables in Tennessee

Tennessee is a great place for horse riding, with its beautiful landscapes and many riding stables. Here are some of the top riding stables in the state.

Stables in Townsend

Cades Cove Riding Stables

Cades Cove Riding Stables is a family-owned and operated stable located in Townsend, TN. They offer guided trail rides that take you through the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Their experienced guides will take you on a journey through the mountains, where you can see wildlife and beautiful scenery. They offer rides for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. They also have a petting zoo, where you can meet some of the animals that call Cades Cove home.

Next to Heaven Riding Stable

Next to Heaven Riding Stable is located in Townsend, TN, and offers guided trail rides through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They have horses for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Their knowledgeable guides will take you on a scenic journey through the mountains, where you can see wildlife and beautiful scenery. They also offer pony rides for children.

Stables in Pigeon Forge

Walden Creek Stables

Walden Creek Stables is located in Pigeon Forge, TN, and offers guided trail rides through the beautiful Smoky Mountains. They have horses for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Their experienced guides will take you on a scenic journey through the mountains, where you can see wildlife and beautiful scenery. They also offer pony rides for children.

Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa

Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa is located in Pigeon Forge, TN, and offers guided trail rides through the beautiful Smoky Mountains. They have horses for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Their experienced guides will take you on a scenic journey through the mountains, where you can see wildlife and beautiful scenery. They also offer other activities, such as zip-lining and gem mining.

In conclusion, Tennessee has many great riding stables to offer. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, there is a stable that will suit your needs. So, saddle up and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Tennessee on horseback.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular places to go horse riding in Tennessee. The park has four horseback riding stables that offer guided horseback rides from mid-March through late November. All of the guided horseback riding in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is suitable for beginners and experienced riders.

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a popular destination for horse riding in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Cades Cove Riding Stables offer guided horseback rides that take visitors through the beautiful scenery of the cove. The rides are suitable for all skill levels, and riders can choose from one-hour, two-hour, or four-hour rides.

Sugarlands

Sugarlands is another popular destination for horse riding in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Sugarlands Riding Stables offer guided horseback rides that take visitors through the beautiful scenery of the park. The rides are suitable for all skill levels, and riders can choose from one-hour, two-hour, or four-hour rides.

Big Creek

Big Creek is a less crowded destination for horse riding in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Big Creek Riding Stables offer guided horseback rides that take visitors through the beautiful scenery of the park. The rides are suitable for all skill levels, and riders can choose from one-hour, two-hour, or four-hour rides.

Overall, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers some of the best horse riding experiences in Tennessee. Visitors can choose from a variety of destinations and ride lengths to find the perfect experience for them.

Horse Riding Events in Tennessee

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to experience horse riding in Tennessee, attending a horse riding event is a great option. Tennessee is home to several horse riding events throughout the year, including horse shows and community events.

Horse Shows

Tennessee hosts several horse shows throughout the year, showcasing some of the best riders and horses in the state. Some of the most popular horse shows in Tennessee include:

• The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration: This event is held annually in Shelbyville, Tennessee, and is one of the biggest horse shows in the country. The event attracts thousands of spectators and features some of the best Tennessee Walking Horses in the world.

• The Germantown Charity Horse Show: This event is held annually in Germantown, Tennessee, and features a variety of horse riding competitions, including jumping, dressage, and Western riding.

• The Tennessee State Championship Horse Show: This event is held annually in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and features a variety of horse riding competitions, including barrel racing, pole bending, and roping.

Community Events

In addition to horse shows, Tennessee also hosts several community events that showcase the state’s rich equestrian culture. Some of the most popular community events include:

• The Franklin Rodeo: This event is held annually in Franklin, Tennessee, and features a variety of rodeo events, including bull riding, barrel racing, and calf roping.

• The Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival: This event is held annually in Portland, Tennessee, and features a variety of horse riding competitions, including barrel racing and pole bending.

• The Mule Day Festival: This event is held annually in Columbia, Tennessee, and celebrates the state’s mule heritage. The festival features a variety of mule-related events, including mule shows, mule pulling contests, and mule races.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for some family-friendly fun, attending a horse riding event in Tennessee is a great way to experience the state’s rich equestrian culture.

Additional Horse Riding Services

If you are looking for more unique horse riding experiences in Tennessee, there are additional services available beyond traditional horseback rides. Two popular options include hayrides and carriage rides.

Hayrides

Hayrides are a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the countryside on horse-drawn wagons filled with hay bales. Typically, hayrides are offered in the fall and are a popular activity for families, groups of friends, and even corporate events. Most hayrides move at a walking pace, so they are perfect for those who want to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace.

Several farms in Tennessee offer hayrides, including Lake Meadow Farm in Nashville. They offer hayrides for groups of up to 20 people, and the ride lasts for approximately 45 minutes. Prices start at $150 for the first hour and $75 for each additional hour.

Carriage Rides

Carriage rides offer a romantic and elegant way to explore the city or countryside. These rides typically move at a walking pace and can be booked for weddings, anniversaries, or other special occasions.

One popular carriage ride company in Tennessee is Touch Point Riding Services in Nashville. They offer carriage rides for up to four people, and the ride lasts for approximately 30 minutes. Prices start at $75 for the first half-hour and $50 for each additional half-hour.

Whether you choose a hayride or a carriage ride, these additional horse riding services offer a unique and memorable way to experience Tennessee’s beautiful countryside.

Planning Your Horse Riding Trip

When planning your horse riding trip in Tennessee, there are a few things to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

Choosing Your Trail

Tennessee offers a variety of trails for horseback riding, from scenic mountain trails to historic routes. Before choosing a trail, consider your riding experience, the length of the trail, and the terrain. You can find a trail map and guide on TN Horse Trails’ website tnhorsetrails.com with video trail reviews by expert Josh Guin. AllTrails alltrails.com also provides detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers, and nature lovers like you.

Accommodations

If you’re traveling from out of town, you’ll need to find accommodations for yourself and your horse. Many horse riding stables offer on-site camping facilities or nearby campgrounds. You can also find a variety of hotels, cabins, and bed and breakfasts in the surrounding areas. The Smoky Mountains smokymountains.org provides guided and unguided horseback rides with nearby accommodations.

Making Reservations

Once you’ve chosen your trail and accommodations, it’s time to make reservations. Many horse riding stables require reservations in advance, especially during peak season. You can make reservations online, over the phone, or in person. Some horse riding stables also offer package deals that include trail rides and accommodations. It’s always a good idea to confirm your reservation a few days before your scheduled ride.

By considering these factors, you can plan a successful horse riding trip in Tennessee. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, Tennessee has something to offer for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best places for horseback riding near Tennessee?

Tennessee is home to several state parks that offer horseback riding opportunities. Some of the best places for horseback riding near Tennessee include Panther Creek, Norris Dam, and Warriors’ Path. These parks offer guided rides, horse rentals, and support facilities for guests accessing the trails on lands managed by the parks.

What are some popular horseback riding destinations in Tennessee?

Tennessee has many popular horseback riding destinations, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Natchez Trace State Park, and Chickasaw State Park. These parks offer a variety of trails for riders of all skill levels.

What is the cost of horseback riding in Gatlinburg, Tennessee?

The cost of horseback riding in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, varies depending on the provider and the length of the ride. Typically, a one-hour guided ride costs around $40 to $50 per person, while a two-hour guided ride costs around $70 to $80 per person.

Are there any horseback riding vacations available in Tennessee?

Yes, there are many horseback riding vacations available in Tennessee. These vacations offer riders the opportunity to explore the scenic countryside while enjoying the company of their horses. Some popular horseback riding vacations in Tennessee include the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, the Tennessee Valley Trail Riders Association, and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.

Can you go horseback riding in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee?

Yes, you can go horseback riding in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. There are several providers in the area that offer guided horseback riding tours through the scenic countryside.

Where can I find horseback riding opportunities in Franklin, Tennessee?

You can find horseback riding opportunities in Franklin, Tennessee, at the Juro Stables. This provider offers guided trail rides through the beautiful countryside, as well as horseback riding lessons for riders of all skill levels.