Horseback Riding Adventure

Equestrians both young and old have enjoyed riding in the Smoky mountains since the first pioneers, first by necessity and now for the pure enjoyment of seeing the mountain vistas, old forests and the beauty of woodland streams and unexpected waterfalls. Horseback riding is a great way to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. One can only imagine the amazing view from the top of the mountain overlooking Fontana Lake. Sounds good, doesn’t it?

At Settlers Mountain you are within a short distance to the very kind of unforgettable experience you are looking for. Let us reserve a guided horseback riding trip with one of our local stables. These trail rides come in one, two, three hour increments and half day excursions. No experience is necessary for your western style trail ride. Children, as young as five, are welcome on these rides as well as adults weighing less than 250 pounds.

Looking for a little different experience?? Let us book a full day trip at Tsali recreation area. Tsali is located approximately 20 minutes from Settlers Mountain. The recreation area features 39 miles of trails broken up into four loops, which are shared by mountain bikers and horseback riders alike. Hikers are welcome on all loops everyday, but mountain bikers and horseback riders share the trails on alternating days.

If you like camping and you can bear to spend even one night away from Settlers Mountain, we can arrange an overnight backcountry horseback riding trip. These trips require you to bring your own camping supplies (i.e. tent, sleeping bags, food, etc.), but you and your guide will travel even deeper into Nantahala National Forest. This may give you the opportunity to see and hear nocturnal animals, insects and reptiles indigenous to the Smoky Mountains on a first hand basis.

Own your own horse?

There are facilities available in Bryson City to board your horse. Located just one mile from the Deep Creek trail heads, The Deep Creek Boarding Stables have lighted, airy 10’ X 10’ stalls for visiting horses. This stable is located within Deep Creek Recreation area. This allows equestrians to leave the stable and ride directly onto the horse trails within the recreation area. The charges are minimal at $10.00 per night. Coggins are required at check in.

Hay, water and food bucket are provided. Water is piped to each individual stall. Complementary horse trailers are available. Veterinary and farrier are nearby. Tack can be purchased at Country Roads Farm and Tack Store located in nearby Sylva.

Feed can be purchased either at Clampitt Hardware store on Main Street in Bryson City or Great Smoky Mountain Bait and Tackle located on Hwy 19, just minutes out of Bryson City.

Tips:

1. Book a reservation. During season small parties (1 – 6) should be able to get reservations within a day or two but parties larger then six should book their reservation as soon as possible to insure availability. NOTE: Rides can be cancelled due to inclement weather.
2. Wear a well fitting pair of sneakers or boots. We suggest you wear jeans or long pants. Don’t forget your sunglasses and a hat or cap. Sunscreen and insect repellant may be helpful as well.
3. Bring water, snacks (trail mix, peanut butter crackers, granola bars, dried fruit, cookies, etc.)
4. Bring your binoculars and camera.
5. Be sure you have a sweater and raincoat. Weather can change very rapidly in the mountains so you want to be prepared.
6. Leave your mobile phones and iPods at home or in the car.