On my foliage trip to Asheville, NC I wanted to take part in some of the best leaf-peeping excursions. Of course, I wasn’t too sure what the best would be. However, upon my return, I can confidently say that my two favorite foliage attractions included the DuPont State Forest waterfalls, and Sandy Bottom Trails horseback riding.
Horseback Riding Foliage Tours: The Benefits
Horseback riding allows you to see the mountains from a different perspective than any other foliage tour. For one, it’s relaxing. Instead of hiking a 40 mile trail, you get to enjoy the foliage on horseback. This is great for seniors who want to see the mountains, but have a hard time taking an extended hike.
Another benefit of horseback riding is that you get to see a lot of different scenery in a few hours. You typically start off on a sloping mountain hill, that then treks through the forest, and rounds about the top of a mountain peak. Some horseback trails take you along winding streams, through sheep pastures and more. My horseback riding experience even stopped off for a break at small cave and Granite mine!
Horseback Riding through Sheep Pastures in Asheville
Overall, horseback riding allows you to see the mountain peaks and colorful autumn leaves from a variety of perspectives. The ride can be mostly hands free, which allows you to snap pictures along the trail.
Is it Priceless? I think so.
The cost of horseback riding varies by outfitter. For the most part, the rides stay between a certain price range based on the amount of time you sign up for.
- 1 Hour Trail Ride $40+
- 2 Hour Trail Ride $70+
- 3 Hour Trail Ride $90+
- Full Day Trail Ride $225
Many outfitters also provide a “Wagon and Buggy” trail ride. This is great for people who are not comfortable riding horses, or would prefer a more romantic ride. These rides range from $40-$90.
Asheville, NC Horseback Trail Guides
My horseback riding foliage excursion took place in Asheville, NC. Asheville is a great place for leaf peeping among the blue ridge mountains. There are many horseback outfitters in the Asheville region; a few well known guides include:
- Sandy Bottom Trail Rides (This is who I went with)
- Wolf Laurel Stables
- Biltmore Equestrian Center
Related Foliage Information: