Horseback Riding on the Fern Forest Trail
45 min
About this activity
Meet your guide at Arrowmont Stables and Cabins in Cullowhee North Carolina, which is about a 2-hour drive from Asheville. At this 200-acre (80-hectare) working horse farm you’ll get acquainted with equine behavior and riding tips during a 50-minute safety program via training video or live demonstration.
Once you’re matched with a suitable horse, snap on your helmet then practice horseback riding in the ring before setting off on the Fern Forest Trail, a gentle path that is suitable for all skill levels. You'll pass by the cabins of an old youth camp and meander through a variety of terrain including a dense fern forest that reaches 3800 feet in elevation.
Listen to birds sing and keep a lookout for a variety of wildlife, including local wild turkeys and deer, before ending your tour back at the stables.
Some RIDING TIPS:
• Horses don't know they are big. That's why we can control them with the bit in their mouth.
• Horses think like little children. They want you to protect them.
• Horses can be very stubborn. Whoever is MOST stubborn wins. You need to be more stubborn than the horse.
Once you’re matched with a suitable horse, snap on your helmet then practice horseback riding in the ring before setting off on the Fern Forest Trail, a gentle path that is suitable for all skill levels. You'll pass by the cabins of an old youth camp and meander through a variety of terrain including a dense fern forest that reaches 3800 feet in elevation.
Listen to birds sing and keep a lookout for a variety of wildlife, including local wild turkeys and deer, before ending your tour back at the stables.
Some RIDING TIPS:
• Horses don't know they are big. That's why we can control them with the bit in their mouth.
• Horses think like little children. They want you to protect them.
• Horses can be very stubborn. Whoever is MOST stubborn wins. You need to be more stubborn than the horse.
Included
- Safety orientation
- Horseback ride (based on option selected)
- Use of all equipment (horse, tack, and helmet)
- Use of helmet mandatory for under 18 years old
- Ponchos or rain coats provided for inclement weather
- Majestic Trails with a variety in terrain from 4200 feet elevation at the top to 3400 feet in the valley
- Local guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- DVD (available to purchase)
Additional
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking, unless booked within 7 days of travel. In this case confirmation will be received within 48 hours, subject to availability
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Plan an extra 50-60 minutes, in addition to your trail time, for your safety and training program
- Please Note: The safety program starts at your stated trail time, not before it. Your trail immediately follows your safety program.
- Your safety program consists of a video or live demonstration covering the horse's training, safety, and horse personality
- You are given a chance to try your horse in the ring before departing. If needed, your horse can be changed before your trail
- Ages need to be given at time of booking so we may assign proper horses
- Closed-toe shoes are required
- Long pants recommended
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
Features
Sport
70%
Adrenaline
60%
Original
45%
Tourism
20%
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