Horseback Riding at Arrowmont Stables

Meet your guide at Arrowmont Stables and Cabins in Cullowhee North Carolina, which is about a 2-hour drive from Asheville. Get acquainted with equine behavior and receive riding tips during a 50-minute safety program via training video and live demonstration.

Once you're matched with a suitable horse, snap on your helmet and practice horseback riding in the ring before setting off on the Flame Azalea Trail. Follow your guide through a hardwood and white pine forest flanked by azaleas before you emerge into an open meadow. Reaching 4,200 feet in elevation, you're treated to sweeping views out of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Be on the lookout for wildlife, including raptors soaring above.

On the descent, travel past the Old Fort Lodge and a former youth camp established in 1960 — before ending your tour back at the stables of the 200-acre (80-hectare) working horse farm.

Some RIDING TIPS:

1. Horses don't know they are big. That's why we can control them with the bit in their mouth.
2. Horses think like little children. They want you to protect them.
3. Horses can be very stubborn. Whoever is MOST stubborn wins. You need to be more stubborn than the horse.

Pickup & Return:
Arrowmont Stables & Cabins in Cullowhee.
Returns to original departure point.
Departure Times: 10:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm

Please arrive at the stated time or 5 minutes early.  

You will need to complete your Assumption of Responsibilty forms At the stated time Your Safety Program starts Then you will try your horse out in the ring before going on your trail.  

Trail times are in addition to the Safety Program.  So if you choose a 60 minute trail, plan to be here at least 2 hours to cover both the Safety and Trail times.

Please Note, The Safety Program Starts at your stated trail time, not before it.  Your Trail immediately follows your safety program.  You just need to factor in the time for any activities you are planning After your trail ride.
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Includes:

• Safety orientation
• Use of all equipment (horse, tack and helmet)
• Ponchos or rain coats provided for inclement weather
• Professional guide

Does not include:

• Gratuities (Optional)
• DVD (available to purchase)

Additional Information:

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
• Plan an extra 50-60 minutes, in addition to your trail time, for your safety and training program. 

• Please Note, The Safety Program Starts at your stated Trail Time, Not before it.  Your Trail immediately follows your safety program.

• Your Safety Program consists of a video or live demonstration covering the horse's training, safety and horse personality.  
• You are given a chance to try your horse in the ring before departing.  If needed, your horse can be changed before your trail.
• Ages need to be given at time of Booking so we may assign proper horses
• Closed-toe shoes are required
• Long pants recommended
• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• If it looks like rain, bring an extra T-shirt and towel