Horseback Riding in Smoky Mountains

While vacationing in Gatlinburg, Tennessee we decided to take a family day trip horseback riding in Smoky Mountains.  It is such a gorgeous place.

We’ve owned horses for a few years, but it is different to ride among the mountain terrain compared to our land in Texas.  The trails are a steep incline and decline with a beautiful view, unlike the flat country back home.

I called several locations in Pigeon Forge to compare pricing, availability and length of trail ride. We decided on the Big Rock Stables at Ponderosa. I read a few reviews on Yelp and from a conversation I had with them over the phone, I realized the ride was longer for roughly the same price as their competitors. Therefore, we knew we would get more for our money.

For $29.95 each, we rode for one hour – roughly 3.5 miles, received a bag of feed for the petting zoo, a bottle of water and an ice cream of our choice.

The trail ride was exactly what I expected – each horse following one after another at a steady pace. Although several of us in our family are experienced riders, we knew we were not renting horses but instead going on a guided tour. This worked best for having little kids with us.

The trail guide kept our daughter right next to him and put a lead on her horse, which gave me more confidence while I rode my own horse. Our son rode behind me and although I was comfortable with him riding since he has his own horse at home, they had a guide walk along and keep his eye on everyone. Noah’s horse was a little stubborn and the helper assisted him when he needed it.

My little cousin wanted to go with us and since she is only four years old they let her ride with me for an additional $14.95. It was the cutest thing ever, she sung the whole time about being a cowgirl. I loved being able to see her experience her first horseback ride.

We had a great time. The guides were very friendly and went above and beyond for the kids. They took very good care of us and made sure everyone had a great time. The horses were calm and beautiful.

After the ride we played at the petting zoo for a while and ate our free ice cream. It was a fun adventure!