Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. And while there are countless different ways to explore the area—ATVing, hiking, biking, or simply driving—nothing quite beats hopping in the saddle.
Those who want to go horseback riding in Gatlinburg can choose from numerous different stables and trails. To help you plan your trip, we’ve created a guide sharing when and where to go and what you can expect.
After reading, book your stay at Prestige Vacation Rentals so you won’t be far from the stables—and the Gatlinburg horseback riding trip of your dreams.
Horseback Riding in Gatlinburg 101
Photo Credit: Tint Media
Many early European settlers ventured into the Gatlinburg area on horseback. Today, of course, horseback riding looks much different. Beyond simply being a fun pastime, riding horses provides a peaceful way to soak up the scenery at a slower pace. You’ll get to cover some ground that you might not see on foot or by car, but you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to stop and smell the roses (or, in this case, the mountain breezes).
With many horseback rides available for the whole family, visitors of all skill levels can get out on the trails and experience the unique beauty of the region. Everyone from kids to seniors will be able to reach the backcountry on horseback, so it’s a perfect opportunity for the whole family to spend quality time together.
Where to Ride Horses in Gatlinburg
Photo Credit: Julie Vader
Visitors can ride horses at a few different locations in and around Gatlinburg. Whether you want to go for a remote ride into the far reaches of the forest or a more relaxed trip closer to town, there’s a spot you’re sure to love.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A 15-minute drive from Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with pack-friendly trails perfect for a horseback ride. With three stables inside the park, you won’t be short on great riding options here. And if you travel with your own horses, you can always check park reports and horse camps to ensure all desired destinations are open.
Pigeon Forge
Also a short drive from Gatlinburg, the town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, boasts several different horseback riding stables and a variety of stellar nearby trails. After a few hours in the saddle admiring views of the rolling Appalachian peaks, you can spend some time at the city’s other attractions, like Dollywood and the Titanic Museum.
Gatlinburg
If you prefer to stay in Gatlinburg itself rather than venturing out of town, don’t worry. You can ride horses at several locations in Gatlinburg, so take your pick between short afternoon jaunts (leaving you time to check out the city’s other things to do) or all-day equestrian adventures. No matter what you choose, you won’t be disappointed—it’s tough to beat the gorgeous scenery of the Gatlinburg area.
When to Ride Horses in Gatlinburg
Photo Credit: Fotokostic
Thanks to the region’s relatively temperate weather, you can ride horses pretty much all year round here in Gatlinburg. However, you’ll have to pick the best time to visit the Smoky Mountains for yourself and your fellow travelers.
In spring, a lush show of greenery and wildflowers carpets the mountains thanks to the warm, mild temperatures. That said, you might see some rainy weather and mud on the trails at this time of year. Summer, meanwhile, is relatively cool compared to lower elevations. But temperatures regularly reach the 80s, and our muggy days might make the prospect of a horseback ride less than appealing.
Fall and winter come with cool, crisp air. Fall is an especially popular choice for those who want to see our spectacular autumn leaves, while winter brings relatively uncrowded trails and magical sights like frozen waterfalls. Keep in mind, though, that chillier temps and the occasional dreary day may keep you indoors. Pick your season wisely, and you’ll be sure to have a great time no matter when you visit.
Horseback Riding Stables in Gatlinburg
Photo Credit: Marian Weyo
When it comes to choosing your ride, you’ll have no shortage of options in Gatlinburg. Some stables are located right in the national park, while others are a few minutes’ drive from Gatlinburg.
Big Rock Dude Ranch
- 909 Little Cove Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN
- horseridingbigrock.com
- Calm rides on a short trail
With a herd of 80 horses, Big Rock Dude Ranch specializes in relaxing, calm rides for the whole family. The ranch features a 3.5-mile trail, giving visitors a taste of the local scenery that won’t tire anyone out too much.
Once you’re back at the ranch and out of the saddle, stick around to try out the gem mining or visit other farm animals at the petting zoo. The picnic area is also an excellent place to stop for lunch before or after a ride.
Sugarlands Riding Stables
- 1409 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN
- sugarlandsstables.com
- Short, medium, or long rides down mountain trails
Located inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Sugarlands Riding Stables has trail rides ranging from four to eight miles. Though those longer rides are typically recommended for experienced riders rather than beginners, Sugarlands caters to all kinds of different visitors, including group trips and newlyweds.
The park recommends that you call ahead for group reservations. Even if you have a small party, though, you should try to book your dates well in advance during the peak busy season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Keep your eyes peeled while you’re out on the trails—you could see native wildlife like black bears or turkeys.
Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park
- 1131 Jayell Rd, Sevierville, TN
- jayellranch.com
- Family-friendly horse riding with Smoky Mountain views
While many stables restrict their riders to ages five and up, even the littlest kids can hop in the saddle at Jayell Ranch. This family-friendly spot welcomes riders of all ages and even makes special accommodations for riders of a certain weight when possible. While in the saddle, you’ll get to see miles of views of Mount LeConte and Shields Mountain Fort.
If you want to try something else while you’re at Jayell, bundle your horseback ride with a ziplining or ATVing excursion combo. The ranch also has outdoor activities like exotic animal encounters, so you should plan to spend at least a few extra hours here.
Cades Cove Riding Stables
- 10018 Campground Dr, Townsend, TN
- cadescovestables.com
- Ride through one of the Smoky Mountains’ top destinations
Located in Cades Cove, one of the most popular attractions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove Riding Stables offers a riding experience you won’t soon forget. You’ll venture through the forest surrounding this iconic landmark while expert guides point out local flora and fauna. Guides will also share stories about the cove, one of the region’s earliest settlement areas.
If you want to try something even more relaxing, book a carriage ride or a hayride for your group. The hay wagons and carriages are modified for accessibility, allowing everyone and anyone to participate.
Stay and Get in the Saddle in Gatlinburg
Now that you have all the information you need to go horseback riding in Gatlinburg, the only thing left to do is book your ride—and your stay at Prestige Vacation Rentals. Our rental properties will put you a short drive from all the horseback riding fun and help you see this stunning region in a completely new light.
Whether you want to take a short trot down the trail with the little ones or go on an extensive backcountry journey, this guide should help you get started. Saddle up, and don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind way to see Gatlinburg!
