Experience the Blue Ridge from a Whole New Vantage Point—Horseback
You’ve likely hiked a trail on two feet before, but how about four? In Brevard, there are many equestrian-friendly adventures for novice riders and experienced horseback aficionados alike. To help plan a dream trip for the horse lovers out there, we’ve rounded up all the info you need so you find your stride.
Where to Find Horses Near Brevard
Guided Horseback Rides
In Transylvania County, there are several ways to saddle up with local guides for a fun, informative trail ride. And, there’s no prior equestrian knowledge required. If you’d like to embark on a backcountry excursion or just take a one-hour trot through the forest, there’s a guide ready to help you take the reins.
- Rusty Spur Trail Rides
- Whitewater Equestrian Center
- Pisgah Forest Stables (opening day in 2025 is still pending due to road damage from Hurricane Helene)
Where to See Horses
If you’re not quite ready to mount up, you can also visit horses in and around Brevard. Dark Side Arabian Horses hosts open barn events with vendors, food, educational speakers, and of course, Arabian horse presentations. If you’d like a little action, the annual rodeo makes its way to our corner of the mountains in late summer.
Kid-friendly Horseback Riding
Even young riders can giddy-up in Transylvania County. Take your 7-and-under crew on a pony ride at Pisgah Forest Stables, or book a ride with Whitewater Equestrian Center, whose horses are available for riders of all ages.
Best Times of Year to Ride
In Brevard, some guides are open year-round. No matter what time of year you’re visiting, there’s a horseback riding option available for you. Rhiannon Banks (Rhi), a guide at Rusy Spur Trail Rides, says that each season offers something unique to riders.
“It all depends on the kind of riding you want to do. I think that Fall is probably the most beautiful season because the foliage is so vibrant. But, Transylvania County gets four distinct seasons, and all are completely different when riding in the woods. There’s amazing plant life in the Spring, and I love mushroom hunting on horseback in the Summer. It’s also really beautiful because all the trees are leafed out that time of year. And, Winter feels really refreshing, which the horses like.”
Horseback Riding Trails in the North Carolina Mountains
Find the best equestrian trails for you and your trusty steed in the Land of Waterfalls. There are several horse-friendly trails in public lands across Transylvania County, including Pisgah National Forest, Gorges State Park, and DuPont State Recreational Forest. A few favorites among riders include the Pink Beds Trail in Pisgah, Auger Hole in Gorges, and Wintergreen in DuPont. For more information about the trails, check the website of the specific land you plan to ride in for all necessary details, and take a look at the Horseback Riding page.
Rhi at Rusty Spur gave us her local expert recommendations for trail riding in the area as well. “DuPont has great facilities for equestrians, like designated parking for horses, and the community that goes there is also pretty good about sharing the trail. The trails there are also really well-maintained, and the waterfall views are great.” She also says that for more of a backcountry experience, the Pisgah Ranger District in Pisgah National Forest is a fun place to ride. “Pisgah has lots of cool opportunities trail-wise, and there are some unique things like river crossings. There aren’t as many people, and it feels more wild. It’s a more challenging and rugged experience. And, if you like new trails, you can ride for days in Pisgah and never hit the same trail twice.“
“Pisgah has lots of cool opportunities trail-wise, and there are some unique things like river crossings. There aren’t as many people, and it feels more wild.”
Rhi, Rusty Spur
Camping with Horses in Transylvania County
If you’d like a truly unique equestrian experience, Rhi also recommends horse camping in Transylvania County. Extend your mountain getaway with your four-legged companion with a stay at Wolf Ford Horse Camp, located in Pisgah National Forest. This campsite is a reservation-only campground and is specifically designated for equestrian use. Check the Forest Service website for availability and specific facility information.
Trail Etiquette
Trail etiquette is an important skill for recreationalists to have, and it’s no different with horseback riding. Rhi tells us that in all situations, communication is key. “The most important thing that people can do is communicate while they’re out to show trail courtesy. A lot of times it’s situational. For example, if you’re riding and see someone ahead of you on the trail, communicate with the person in front of you. If the horse is nervous, or even if they’re good and don’t mind other people, give others on the trail a heads up. You’re the person with the horse, so it’s up to you to let the people around you know what’s going on. Or, if you’re hiking or biking and see a horse coming, don’t be afraid to ask what the best thing to do is! If you’re going to cross paths, the best thing to do is stop and talk it out.”
As with all other outdoor recreation activities, it’s important to remember your horseback trail etiquette for a sure-footed ride. For a detailed list of best practices, check out our Horsin’ Around blog.
