Horseback RidesGuided horseback rides are available at three concession riding stables in the park from mid-March through late-November. Rides on scenic park trails last from 45 minutes to several hours. Weight limits and age restrictions may apply.
HayridesCades Cove Riding Stables offers a 1.5-2 hour hayride around the Cades Cove Loop Road. Passengers sit on a bed of hay in a trailer pulled by a truck and enjoy an open air view of the scenery of Cades Cove. Reservations are generally required. Carriage and Wagon RidesCarriage or wagon rides are offered at two of the concession horseback riding stables in the park. These rides provide an opportunity to experience a 20-30 minute horse-drawn carriage or wagon ride on a park trail. Please visit the website of the stable you are interested in for additional information.
Bringing Your Horse to the Park
About 550 miles of the park's hiking trails are open to horses. Horses are restricted to trails specifically designated for horse use. If you wish to ride your own horse in the park, please obtain a copy of the park's trail map. This map indicates the trails on which you may ride horses and explains the park's rules and regulations concerning horse riding in the backcountry. It also provides information about backcountry camping, and permit requirements. To obtain an official trail map, stop at any park visitor center. The cost of the map is $1. You may also download a trail map. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park's official online store for books, maps, and guides to the park. Operated by the nonprofit Smokies Life, proceeds generated by purchases at the store are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in the park. | |
Last updated: February 13, 2024