Join Us For Our 75th Anniversary with a Truly Traditional American Vacation!

Horseback Riding

 

April - November by CRT, Inc. Enjoy hosts of wildflowers, mile-high vistas, lush forests, or the cool quietness of rhododendron tunnels as you ride through Cataloochee Ranch or surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Schedule:

• PLEASE NOTE: CRT cannot guarantee more than one ride per person per day during peak times.
• Half-day Rides: Depart at 9:30 A.M. and 2:00 P.M. They 2 1/2 hours depending on the route taken.
• All-day Rides: Depart at 9:30 A.M. They last approximately seven hours, and lunch is provided. All day rides are for intermediate and advanced riders 12 years old or older. Speak with the wrangler in advance to schedule these rides.
• Private Rides: These can be scheduled in advance as staffing permits.

Riders are grouped according to their riding ability in order to give everyone a pleasant experience. The pace is determined by the terrain and circumstances of the day. For safety the wranglers carry first-aid kits and have radio communication with the Ranch office at all times.

The riding list is taken at breakfast for rides that day. "No-shows" will be charged a $15 saddling fee unless you cancel thirty minutes prior to departure time.

Rates: Half-day rides:
Ranch guests: $45.00 per person
Non-guests: $50.00 per person

All-day Rides:
Ranch guests: $100.00 per person
Non-guests: $110.00 per person

Private Rides: $15.00 surcharge per person
   

Clothing: Riders must wear long pants and sturdy footwear with heels. Rain gear is provided, but you may bring your own if you prefer. Also bring a sweater or jacket, even on mild days, since rides usually ascend to the higher peaks or into the cool shade of wooded areas. We have riding helmets available and encourage you to wear them.
   

Liability: CRT will make every effort to ensure your safety, but it must be understood that there are elements of risk when dealing with any live animal. Riders who fail to use courtesy on the trail or follow the wrangler's instructions will be escorted back to the barn. All riders must sign a release form and participate at their own risk. The minimum weight for a rider is 55 pounds, and the maximum weight for a rider is 225 pounds. Age limits apply for children. No double riding is allowed. Alcoholic beverages, smoking and cell phone use are not permitted on the trail. Private saddles may be brought and used, but must be approved by barn personnel. Saddlebags for personal gear are available at the barn.

Good Horse Sense
1. Don't overstate your ability on the riding release. Please give an honest assessment of your skill level and your weight. This also applies to children because for safety sake it is important to make a compatible match between horse and rider.
2. Do follow your wrangler's instructions and take them seriously. There is a good reason for each and every Ranch practice.
3. Do dress appropriately for riding. We require long pants and sturdy shoes, preferably with a heel. Avoid hiking boots if possible as they tend to get stuck in the stirrup. We provide rain ponchos but you are welcome to bring your own raingear.
4. Don't expect that the Ranch weather will be predictable. Be prepared to bring a light jacket or sweater and check with the front office for the expected weather for the day.
5. Do begin your riding at the Ranch with half-day rides before inquiring about all day rides. 7 to 8 hours in the saddle are alot different than 2 1/2 hours time 2.
6. Don't tell your wrangler that you want to "run" all the time. Horses walk, trot and canter. People and dogs run. Our mountainous terrain dictates the pace, but we guarantee that the scenery and the company of fellow guests and friendly wranglers will make you satisfied with your ride at any speed.

If you have any questions or complaints please feel free to let us know. The Barn Manager is Judy B. Sutton and she welcomes your inquiries.

Rates, Dates, Times, availability and Policies subject to change without notice