Blog for Zipline Attraction in the Smoky Mountains
Located in Pigeon Forge, TN and near Gatlinburg and Sevierville.
There Are Lots Of Ways To Horse Around In The Smokies
By Ross Bodhi Ogle
Posted on January 17, 2017
When you were a kid, you probably heard your parents and teachers warn you not to get into any horseplay. Now that you're all grown up, though, it's OK to get into horseplay. In fact, it's something that a lot of people enjoy doing when they visit the Great Smoky Mountains.
In this case, we're talking about horseback riding, and it's one of the most popular outdoor activities you can participate in around here. Whether you're an experienced rider or a tenderfoot, there are lots of stables and ranches in these parts where you can saddle up and hit the dusty trail for a few hours or even longer if you're so inclined.
Smoky Mountain Ziplines is currently on winter break, but this week, we thought we'd share a few ideas for places you can go that will allow you to enjoy the outdoors in winter and – just like when you're ziplining – have a lot of fun doing it.
Located just off the Parkway in Sevierville, this easily accessible 70-acre nature park features a variety of native wildlife, great views of Mt. LeConte and even the historic remnants of an authentic moonshine still. Some 60 horses are available onsite, and rides range from a half-hour to a full hour.
These stables are based in Gatlinburg and have trails that are inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Experiences range from a one-hour ride on a four-mile trail to a two-hour ride for experienced riders on eight miles of trails. Trails are wooded and encounter mountain streams.
You'll find this place about four miles outside Gatlinburg on East Parkway (U.S. 321). They're affiliated with Sugarlands Stables and offer some 40 head of well-trained and experienced mountain trail horses. They range in size from 13 to 17 hands, guaranteeing that most riders will find the horse that fits.
Just a few miles outside Pigeon Forge, this sprawling 500-acre site features eight-foot-wide trails, available safety helmets and guided rides for all ages. The attraction also offers Wild West supper shows, wagon rides, fishing, and they'll even perform wedding ceremonies.
Jayell Ranch
These stables are found near Sevierville, TN and feature a four-mile trail with access to some 260 acres of trees and mountain views. The horses are friendly, and tours depart every 15 to 20 minutes. The ranch also offers ATV rides and off-road go-carts.
Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa
This multipurpose ranch offers horseback riding on a 3.5-mile trail with beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Around 80 horses are available, and the ranch has earned a #1 rating for safety from Gilliham and Associates. Also look for ATV rides, gem mining, a petting zoo, fishing and more on site.
These stables are located entirely within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near the entrance to the Cades Cove loop. The guided rides allow guests to explore the surrounding woodlands and learn a little about the history of area settlers along the way. The site also offers guided carriage rides and hayrides.
Next To Heaven Ranch
You'll find this secluded ranch on Wears Valley Road, between Wears Valley and Townsend, TN. The trails are scenic, and they claim to be the only ranch in the area that offers unguided horseback rides. Guests can also ride ziplines and stay in onsite cabins.
