Let your child ride in the ring with a parent leading
15 minutes in the Ring
Helmet, Horse, Safety orientation
Help your child ride in the ring while you lead the horse at Arrowmont Stables in Cullowhee. This parent-led ride gives your group 15 minutes in the ring, with helmets provided for children.
Children age 3 and younger need 2 adults: one to lead the horse and one to walk beside the child for stability. Closed-toe shoes with smooth soles are required, and double riding is not permitted. Gratuities are not included (guides generally receive 20%).
For horseback riding, the cancellation fee is trail cost per horse cancelled. If you suspect allergy problems, do not expect a refund if an allergic reaction occurs and you cannot ride.
Wear closed-toe shoes with smooth soles. Do not wear flip-flops, hiking boots, Crocs, or go barefoot. Long pants work best; knee-length shorts can help prevent rubbing on the saddle.
No. Arrive at your reservation time. After you arrive, you complete forms, get a helmet, and do a safety program and a short ring tryout before riding; this prep can take about 30–45 minutes.
Yes. Rides operate in all weather conditions. Ponchos and raincoats are provided; bring an extra T-shirt and towel if it looks like rain.
Arrowmont delivers an authentic mountain horseback riding experience that consistently impresses families and first-timers. The guides, particularly Joshua and Eric, earn repeated praise for their patience, knowledge, and genuine care in matching riders with well-trained horses. Guests appreciate the thorough safety instruction beforehand, something many note sets this operation apart from other stables in the area. The horses themselves get glowing reviews for being responsive yet gentle, with several riders mentioning how capable they felt even without prior experience. The trails offer more adventure than your typical beginner ride. Expect rocky terrain, creek crossings, and legitimacy challenging climbs with rewarding mountain views and meadow scenery. Families with kids as young as six have had great experiences here, with staff going the extra mile to help nervous children feel comfortable. One reviewer mentioned the terrain being the most challenging they'd encountered across North America, though in a positive way. The whole operation has that family-run, stepping-back-in-time feel that makes it memorable beyond just the ride itself.
My daughter and I went on the Scenic Valley Trail ride. The ride was an hour and a half of absolutely beautiful scenery! Our guide and the owner were both extremely friendly and knowledgeable. They made us feel completely comfortable and made sure we felt confident about riding. I have experience riding but daughter did not and they made sure she was relaxed and ease so we were both able to thoroughly enjoy our ride! I highly recommend booking a trail ride!
Jinna Smith
March 25, 2026
My daughter and I went on the Scenic Valley Trail ride. The ride was an hour and a half of absolutely beautiful scenery! Our guide and the owner were both extremely friendly and knowledgeable. They made us feel completely comfortable and made sure we felt confident about riding. I have experience riding but daughter did not and they made sure she was relaxed and ease so we were both able to thoroughly enjoy our ride! I highly recommend booking a trail ride!
Jinna Smith
March 25, 2026