How long is each horseback riding session?

Each session lasts approximately 15 minutes within the riding ring.

Are there age or weight restrictions for riders?

The ride is designed primarily for children, with parental supervision, and weight limits depend on the horses and staff guidance.

Is prior riding experience needed?

No prior riding skills are required—this experience is beginner-friendly.

What safety measures are in place?

Staff and parents accompany riders, and all riding happens in a secure, fenced ring.

What should riders wear?

Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing are recommended for safety and ease.

Family-Friendly Horseback Riding Experience on a Picturesque North Carolina Farm

Q: Can multiple kids ride consecutively?

Yes, flexible start times allow multiple children to take turns comfortably.

Located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, the Ring Ride offers an accessible and engaging horseback riding experience perfect for families and beginners looking to connect with the outdoors. Set on a sprawling 200-acre farm, this activity provides a safe, inviting environment where youth riders can enjoy 15-minute sessions in a fenced riding ring under the attentive guidance of trained staff or parents. This makes it an ideal introduction to horseback riding for children, blending the excitement of equestrian activity with the reassurance of close supervision.

Cullowhee is nestled within the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, a region celebrated for its lush forests, rolling hills, and outdoor recreation opportunities. While this equestrian experience centers on the farm’s enclosed ring, the backdrop of verdant pastures and the gentle rhythm of horse hooves bring riders a unique sense of calm and connection to nature. The farm itself plays an important role in local recreation, offering a slice of rural life where visitors can step outside the typical tourist routes and immerse their families in a hands-on outdoor activity.

What sets this Ring Ride apart is its family-friendly approach and flexibility. Flexible start times allow multiple children to take turns riding, making it easy for groups or siblings to share the adventure without feeling rushed. The ride is designed to be approachable for all skill levels, especially novice riders who may be tentative around horses, making it a standout destination for parents seeking a safe and memorable outdoor experience for their kids.

While Cullowhee offers extensive hiking, river access, and mountain views, the Ring Ride serves as a complement—an opportunity to engage with animals and learn basic riding skills in a controlled, supportive setting. This experience captures the essence of the region’s outdoors without needing advanced technical skills or fitness, making it a great fit for travelers of varying ages and abilities.

From staff guidance to spacious paddocks, every aspect is focused on comfort and safety. Whether your child is meeting a horse for the first time or building confidence in the saddle, this horseback ride provides a hands-on adventure that combines nature, animals, and family time. For those visiting western North Carolina and looking to diversify their outdoor itinerary, the Ring Ride offers a fresh, memorable way to connect to this beautiful, mountain landscape.

About Arrowmont Stables and Cabins

Arrowmont Stables and Cabins is a family-owned equestrian business located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Situated on a 200-acre horse farm, Arrowmont offers guided trail rides, riding lessons, and seasonal horse camps for children and adults. The operation emphasizes safety, personalized instruction, and hands-on horsemanship training taught by experienced staff. Guests can choose from a variety of experiences, including short ring rides for toddlers, scenic valley and Flame Azalea trail rides, a lunchtime picnic ride, and longer multi-day camps. Trails traverse hardwood forests, open meadows, and high-elevation vistas reaching approximately 4,200 feet, providing wildlife viewing and panoramic mountain scenery.

Arrowmont's programs include beginner lessons, advanced walk-trot-canter rides, parent-led ring rides, a two-half-day "Get Your Hooves Wet" horse camp, and a five-day equestrian camp focused on grooming, riding fundamentals, and safety. Each experience includes safety briefings and appropriate gear; family members may participate or observe depending on the activity. The business combines recreational trail riding with instructional horsemanship in a rural, natural setting near Cullowhee.

Booking, schedules, and seasonal availability vary by program; campers typically attend in July for youth sessions. Arrowmont Stables and Cabins positions itself as a reliable choice for families seeking supervised equine experiences, scenic horseback rides, and structured horse camp curricula on a private 200-acre property in western North Carolina. Staff maintain regular horse care routines and provide clear safety orientation. Cabins on site offer rustic convenience for overnight stays, and the location's mountain views make it a popular choice for family outings and educational equine experiences. Year-round.