Mountains, Plains & State Parks make horse riding in North Carolina truly spectacular …
Horse riding provides an excellent way of taking a break from that daily routine, and North Carolina offers plenty of opportunities for enjoying horseback riding to the max.
Horse riding in North Carolina provides all the good things associated with horseback riding along with the visual impact of stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.
It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful or enticing place to ride than the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina or the beautiful Pisgah National Forest.
Then there’s the stunningl Nantahala Mountains Area of the Great Smokies.
Trekking and Trail Riding fans will find a wide choice of options as far as riding trails are concerned and, whether you are a permanent resident or an equestran tourist, North Carolina will satisfy your every equine need.
North Carolina Facts
North Carolina is situated in the Southeastern United States, comprising no less than 100 counties. It is one of the fastest growing states in the U.S.
North Carolina?s geography is quite diverse, as it starts at sea level and rise to 6,684 ft at Mt. Mitchell, the highest point in Eastern United States.
The climate is mostly humid subtropical, with the coastal plains subject to Atlantic Ocean breezes.
This mixed with the lush scenery makes horse riding in North Carolina truly spectacular.
Horse Breeds in North Carolina …
The islands of North Carolina?s Outer Banks are known to be the place where the Banker horse lives. This horse is small and docile and is a descendant of Spanish domesticated horses.
Whatever horse you are planning to ride, North Carolina offers many trails and camping sites, including Blowing Rock, home of the Blowing Rock Equestrian Preservation, which is an easy trail for inexperienced riders.
There are also more difficult trail rides, including the trail at El Dorado and the trail within the Uwharrie National Forest.
Or ride the 29 miles of equestrian trails at South Mountains State Park and the Dogwood Trail past Benn Knob, the second highest peak in the park.
Horse Shows & Riding Events in North Carolina …
Horse lovers who enjoy horse riding in North Carolina should drop by the JCHSS or Johnston County Horse Show Series hosted every February in Smithfield.
The event encourages family participation and is wide open for any breed, discipline or riding level.
Another successful equestrian event is the THA Open Show which is scheduled every April in Jacksonville.
During this event, riders of all ages can take classes and enjoy an amazing and highly entertaining open show.
Then there’s the Carolina Classic in Williamston, North Carolina. A popular AMHA three star rated show with Saddlebred, Morgan, Roadster and Hackney Classes.
Equestrian Centers & Stables in North Carolina
The best equestrian centers and boarding facilities in North Carolina cater for all equestrian needs, including riding lessons, horse boarding, summer camps and riding trails.
Nikki Harrison Vaccaro Freelance Equestrian Services Nikki Harrison-Vaccaro Freelance Equestrian Services, available for horse show coaching & preparation, marketing, braiding, grooming, exercising, and horse-sitting …
Heaven Tree Farm & Cornerstone Hungarians
We are a breeding and sales facility located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. We breed Hungarian WB’s for the Sport Horse industry and stand the …
Double D Equestrian Center – 919 496-6564
733 Egypt Church Road, Louisburg, North Carolina NC 27549
Double D, offers horse boarding, riding lessons, horse training, equestrian clinics, summer camps and 14 miles of riding trails in an area of oustanding natural beauty. Located on the rolling hills of the Tar River, just outside of Louisburg, the Double D Equestrian Center is a must visit for all those who wish to really enjoy horse riding in North Carolina.
Countyline Equestrian Center – 919 496-7674
2616 NC 98 Hwy W, Louisburg, NC 27549
A big barn with a little barn atmosphere offering boarding, lessons, training and summer camps. We attend monthly horse shows and trail rides and we have a show team which is free to join and compete on a variety of different circuits. Our facility offers a huge footed ring, grass dressage/jumping field, wash stalls, tack areas, large tackroom, restroom, and private turnouts as well as large grass pastures with small group turnout

Horse riding in North Carolina is a popular pastime for many reasons, not the least of which is NC’s stunning scenery and subtropical climate..
North Carolina’s glorious landscapes, its varied horse breeds, and its wide variety of horse shows and events, mean the more seasoned rider can take part in all types of exhibitions and competitions, while the less experienced rider can easily find horse training and other equestrian services in almost every part of the state