Riding the Spine of Cullowhee: A Two-Hour Horseback Traverse Above Lake Glenville
Starting at $144.85 | Our Most Popular, You Experience It All!
The horses breathe little clouds into the cool morning as the trail tips uphill, a steady rhythm of hooves tapping out a promise: views are coming. Ferns part like a beaded curtain, the hardwoods nod their approval, and Rough Run murmurs somewhere below, urging you forward. You’ve barely left the ring at Arrowmont Stables when the forest decides to show its hand—first oak and hickory, then an abrupt shift to white pine, needles cushioning each step so the mountain feels lighter beneath you. In just a few minutes, you understand why this is the most asked-for outing here: it strings together the farm’s classic routes into one seamless arc across Cullowhee Mountain, a two-hour ride that punches above its weight.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Exactly at Your Start Time
Orientation begins at your reserved time—no need to come early. Expect 45–60 minutes for safety, fitting, and a ring check before hitting the trail.
Wear Smooth-Soled Shoes with a Heel
Avoid hiking boots; lugged soles can snag in the stirrups. Closed-toe footwear with a slight heel keeps your foot properly positioned.
Secure Valuables or Leave Them
Phones, sunglasses, and wallets tend to jump ship on the trail. Use a tethered case or lock items in your vehicle.
Hydrate Before You Ride
Pre-hydrate and carry a small, secure water bottle. The elevation bump and steady climb can sneak up on you.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet spur viewpoint just past the summit meadow when skies are clear
- •Short walk to creeks in the Scenic Valley where you can cool off post-ride
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, Wild turkey
Conservation Note
Stay on designated trails to protect fragile meadow soils and fern understory. Pack out all trash to keep streams and wildlife habitat clean.
Lake Glenville—originally Thorpe Reservoir—was created in 1941 by damming the West Fork Tuckasegee River; this region sits within the ancestral homeland of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Flame azalea blooms, Cooler temps and fresh water flow
Challenges: Unpredictable showers, Muddy sections
Spring paints the ridges and meadows with color and offers crisp views between showers. Trails run rain or shine with ponchos provided.
summer
Best for: Long daylight rides, Lush fern forest shade
Challenges: Humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
Green is at full volume. Start earlier to dodge heat and keep an eye on pop-up storms.
fall
Best for: Peak foliage panoramas, Comfortable temps
Challenges: High demand—book early, Cool, breezy summits
Leaf season frames the meadow views in reds and golds. Layers help at the 4,200-foot crest.
winter
Best for: Clear, far-reaching views, Quiet trails
Challenges: Cold winds at elevation, Potential icy spots
On crisp days, the mountains stand in high definition. Dress warm and expect limited shade leaves.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-Toe Riding or Walking Shoes with HeelEssential
A smooth sole and slight heel keep your foot from sliding through the stirrup.
Long Pants or Knee-Length Riding TightsEssential
Reduces saddle rub and makes for a more comfortable ride over two hours.
Lightweight Rain Shell or Poncho
Trails go rain or shine; a packable layer keeps you dry when showers pop up.
Tethered Phone Case or Compact Camera Strap
Prevents drops while photographing the summit meadow and valley creeks.
Common Questions
How long is the ride, and how much time should I plan overall?
The trail time is about two hours. With safety orientation and prep, plan on 3–3.5 hours total at the stables.
What’s the weight limit and age minimum?
The weight limit is 250 pounds with proportional height. Most riders need to be at least six years old; double riding is not allowed.
What should I wear for horseback riding?
Wear closed-toe, smooth-soled shoes with a heel and long pants or knee-length shorts. Skip hiking boots, sandals, and flip-flops.
Do rides operate in the rain?
Yes. Trails run rain or shine, and ponchos are provided. Views can be dramatic in mist; expect some mud after showers.
Can I bring a camera or phone on the trail?
Yes, but secure it with a tether or strap. Loose items frequently get lost on the trail.
Is tipping expected?
Gratuities are appreciated (around 15–20%) and go directly to your guide.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes with a heel (safer stirrup positioning); long pants (prevents saddle rub); lightweight rain shell (trails go rain or shine); tethered phone case (keeps your camera secure during views and wildlife sightings).
Did You Know
Lake Glenville sits at roughly 3,494 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest elevation lakes east of the Mississippi River, with three accessible waterfalls along its shores.
Quick Travel Tips
Book fall weekends well in advance; leaf season fills quickly. Hydrate and eat a light snack before orientation. Cashiers is the best nearby base for food and lodging. Cell service can be spotty near the stables—download directions ahead of time.
Local Flavor
After your ride, head to Whiteside Brewing Company in Cashiers for a post-saddle pint and patio time. For a hearty meal, The Orchard serves regional favorites in a farmhouse setting, while Slab Town Pizza covers the casual, family-friendly end of the spectrum. If you’ve got energy left, cruise to the Lake Glenville overlook for a sunset scan of the basin you just rode above.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Asheville Regional (AVL), ~1.5–2 hours by car. Trailhead: Arrowmont Stables & Cabins near the NW end of Lake Glenville. Drive time from Cashiers: ~20 minutes. Cell service: Spotty near the stables and on trail. Permits: None required; reservations essential, and helmets required for riders under 18.
Sustainability Note
Ride single file and avoid letting horses graze on sensitive meadow edges. Keep noise down around wildlife, pack out all trash, and respect the cultural significance of these lands to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.