Smoky Mountains Trail Rides: Explore the Majestic Smokies on Horseback

Smoky Mountains

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By Core Editors Desk

Smoky Mountains Trail Rides offer a unique and unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a first-time rider, these trail rides provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscapes of the Smokies.

Horseback Riding Stables in the Smoky Mountains

Smoky Mountains Trail Rides
Image Credit: Wikimedia

Big Rock Dude Ranch

  • Located near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee
  • Offers horseback riding year-round, seven days a week from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (weather permitting)
  • Features the area’s only true mountain trail rides that take you up into the mountains

Smoky Mountain Trail Rides and Bison Farm

  • Located in Marshall, North Carolina
  • Offers guided horseback rides with spectacular views through woods, hills, and streams

Smokemont Riding Stables

  • Located near Cherokee, North Carolina
  • Offers guided horseback rides of varying lengths, including a 1-hour ride, a 2.5-hour waterfall ride, and a 4-hour ride

Cades Cove Riding Stables

  • Located near Townsend, Tennessee
  • Offers guided horseback rides through Cades Cove, as well as hayrides and horse-drawn carriage rides

Planning a Scenic Driving Trail Ride

Smoky Mountains Trail Rides

If you prefer to explore the Smoky Mountains by car, there are several scenic driving trails to consider:

  1. Choose a Route: Select a route that suits your interests and skill level, such as the Cades Cove Loop Road or the Newfound Gap Road.
  2. Check Road Conditions: Ensure the roads are open and suitable for your vehicle, as some may be closed due to weather or maintenance.
  3. Plan for Time: Allocate sufficient time for your drive, considering the length of the route and any stops you want to make.
  4. Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with adequate fuel and supplies.

Best Motor Trails to Explore

Some of the top motor trails to explore in the Smoky Mountains include:

  1. Cades Cove Loop Road: An 11-mile, one-way loop road that takes you through historic Cades Cove, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
  2. Newfound Gap Road: A 25-mile road that connects Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.
  3. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A 5.5-mile, one-way loop road that takes you through a beautiful, forested area with historic buildings and scenic overlooks.

Reviews and Ratings

  • Smoky Mountain Trail Rides and Bison Farm: 4.5/5 stars on TripAdvisor, with reviewers praising the scenic trails and friendly guides.
  • Big Rock Dude Ranch: 4.5/5 stars on TripAdvisor, with reviewers praising the horseback riding experience and the ranch’s amenities.

Cost and Timings

  • Big Rock Dude Ranch: Rates vary depending on the ride and activities chosen. Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week (weather permitting).
  • Smoky Mountain Trail Rides and Bison Farm: Rates vary depending on the ride chosen. Open year-round, with specific hours not specified.
  • Smokemont Riding Stables: Rates vary depending on the ride chosen. Open from mid-March to late November, with specific hours not specified.
  • Cades Cove Riding Stables: Rates vary depending on the ride chosen. Open from mid-March to late November, with specific hours not specified.

Directory and Contact Information

  • Big Rock Dude Ranch: (865) 429-9777
  • Smoky Mountain Trail Rides and Bison Farm: (828) 649-3464
  • Smokemont Riding Stables: (828) 497-2373
  • Cades Cove Riding Stables: (865) 448-6289

Smoky Mountains Trail Rides offer a unique and memorable experience, allowing you to explore the beautiful scenery of the Smoky Mountains on horseback. With a variety of stables and trail options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this stunning natural wonder.

References

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