Blackberry Farm has an adjoining 200-acre property as the setting for our equestrian facility. Only a mile from the main entrance, our trail rides are designed to be safe, informative and pleasurable adventures into our beautiful Smoky Mountains foothills. All rides are private and by reservation.
The Field and Stream Trail Ride is our most requested equine adventure. Plan to amble through our fields and valleys, explore babbling creeks and water crossings and climb into the foothills. We often encounter wildlife as we explore the foot of the mountain that establishes the border to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Prior to the ride, our experienced instructors will assist you in assessing your current riding skills so the ride may be tailored to your experience.
Allow up to 2 hours
Offered at 9:00am, 12:00pm and 3:00pm daily, based on availability
For Western or English riders of every ability. Ages 8 and up, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Tally ho, the fox! The Hunter Pace Trail Ride simulates the pace of an actual mounted foxhunt, which includes walk, trot, canter and standing at check. This ride is designed for accomplished English riders, currently riding on a weekly basis, capable of posting the trot and cantering over challenging terrain. Jumping is optional. The Hunter Pace Trail Ride provides the opportunity to enjoy an exciting exploration of our foothills property on a well-trained horse and serves as an introduction to the sport of foxhunting. For advanced English riders only. For the safety of our guests and to preserve the integrity of our horses’ training, each rider will perform a skills test in the arena, to the satisfaction of the instructor, prior to riding out.
Allow up to 2 hours
Offered at 9:00am, 12:00pm and 3:00pm daily, based on availability
Ages 18 and up
Experience an introduction to the philosophy and practice of Natural Horsemanship. Learn to speak the language of the horse and establish an appropriate relationship. Savor the opportunity to “join up” with a horse in the round pen and explore the essence of the human/horse relationship through non-verbal communication, action and perception. Arrive seeking an understanding of the horse and leave with a powerful connection. Only offered when paired with the Field and Stream Trail Ride or Hunter Pace Trail Ride.
Allow 1 hour
Ages 8 and up, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Blackberry Pony Time is designed for children and their families. This confidence-building experience includes an introduction to grooming and leading a mini horse or pony. Each child will have leadline time on horseback.
Allow up to 1 hour
Offered at 9:00am, 12:00pm and 3:00pm daily, based on availability
All ages, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Discover our mountains on horseback! This peaceful trail ride starts at the Stables, then crosses Hesse Creek to the foothills bordering the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Be prepared for some steep terrain and possible wildlife sightings. This ride is best suited for experienced riders. You have the option to enjoy a box lunch at a picnic table at the Stables, or head back to property for lunch in the Main House.
Allow up to 4 hours
Offered at 9:00am daily, based on availability
Ages 13 and up, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Designed for those new to horses or those wishing to revive a previous interest. Our Full Day Horse Clinic is a great way to learn about equines! The day begins with grooming and instruction in Natural Horsemanship in the round pen. Topics include grooming techniques, husbandry, conformation, psychology of the horse, suitability of horse to rider and instruction in English or Western disciplines. The day ends with a trail ride.
Allow up to 5 hours
Offered at 9:00am daily, based on availability
Ages 8 and up, minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Blackberry Farm is a year-round, family-friendly property and children of all ages are welcome! Charges for an additional person or children sharing the same room as their parents/adults are complimentary for children three years and below, while children four years and above will incur an additional nightly charge per person. The traditional room rate includes breakfast and dinner in our restaurants or at Camp Blackberry during our normal dining hours. This also includes in-room pantry snacks and beverages.
