The only authorized horseback riding stable in Cades Cove, the Cades Cove Riding Stables is a perfect way for you and your family or group to explore this scenic and historic area. From guided horseback riding trails to relaxing and informative carriage rides, the stables have a fun activity for everyone!
To learn more about all of the exciting activities offered by the Cades Cove Riding Stables, read below!
Horseback Riding at the Cades Cove Riding Stables
Located near the entrance of the Cades Cove Loop Road, the Cades Cove Riding Stables are sure to please even the most advanced equestrian. Not only do the trails offered by the stables give you an up close view of the beauty of both the cove and the Great Smoky Mountains, the expert guides are sure to make your trip memorable as they share old stories and historical facts about the area.
During your journey, you and your family or group will explore in and around the Cades Cove area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During your trek, you will pass mountain streams, shady forest, scenic views, and much more!
Be sure to keep your eyes peeled during your horseback riding adventure as you have a good chance of spotting some of the area’s native wildlife as your go deeper into the old growth forest. Wildlife commonly spotted during this tour include turkeys, deer, groundhogs, and even a black bear or two.
Before Your Ride
Do not feel intimidated if you have never ridden a horse before visiting the Cades Cove Riding Stables. Not only does the stable have a well-trained team of experienced horses that are perfect for all skill levels, they also walk you through a short orientation before your tour begins. This tour is where you learn everything you need to enjoy a fun and exciting horse riding experience while staying safe in the process.
In total, the guided horseback rides last approximately an hour. There is a limit of 9 riders per group. Children under 16 years of age are required to wear a helmet which is provided free of charge.
Reservations are not accepted for horseback riding at the Cades Cove Riding Stables.
Dress For Success
Before you leave for your outdoor adventure with the Cades Cove Riding Stables, we want to encourage you to check out what to wear if you plan on going horseback riding with the group. According to the stables, they recommend you wear closed to shoes that have at least a half-inch heel and are secure to your feet.
The staff with the Cades Cove Riding Stables also suggests you wear loose-fitting clothing and long pants. You don’t want your clothes to be too tight as you will need mobility getting on and off your horse, as well as for comfort while you are riding.
Shorts, tennis shoes, skirts, backpack, purses and other bulky items are not suggested. Please make sure all hats, sunglasses, and other accessories are secured before you begin your adventure.
Guided Carriage Rides
If horseback riding isn’t really what you are looking to experience during your next trip to Cades Cove, we suggest you consider enjoying one of the many guided carriage rides offered by the stables. Instead of you and your group being spread out over several different horses, you can all sit together in the comfort of one of their horse carriages as one of the guides takes you on a scenic tour of the area.
The guided carriage rides usually last between 30 and 45 minutes. There are no weight or age requirements. However, there is a maximum of 6 guests per carriage. Although there are no reservations accepted for the carriage rides, we do recommend you arrive early as spots do fill up fast.
Hayrides at the Cades Cove Riding Stables
Similar to the guided carriage rides, the hayrides at the Cades Cove Riding Stables invite you and your group to enjoy a scenic tour of the Cove from the comfort of your personal trailer. You will hear much the same historic stories and witness many of the same scenic views. However, the biggest difference is the number of people you get to share this memory with during your tour. Where the carriage rides have a maximum of 6 people per carriage, the hayride trailers can hold up to 65 riders per tour.
The length of this adventure is almost much longer than the carriage rides. Instead of getting to enjoy the scenic beauty for only 20-45 minutes, you and your family or group have up to 3 hours to leisurely ride through Cades Cove and take in the breathtaking views of the area.
Also, reservations are accepted for the hayrides at the Cades Cove Riding Stables for groups of 15 riders or more. There are no reservations accepted for groups with fewer than 15 people.
Hours of Operation
The Cades Cove Riding Stables are open March 4 – November 30, weather permitting.
To learn more about all the scenic views you can expect to see when exploring with the friendly folks with the Cades Cove Riding Stables, check out The Only Cades Cove Map & Loop Road Guide You’ll Ever Need.
