There are five trail-entry points directly accessible from the stable area, and six loops ranging from five to 20 miles long. Although trail distances aren't listed, Hugh Hanchey, the stable manager, will give you fairly accurate distances and make route suggestions according to your and your horse's abilities.
If you're a relatively seasoned rider, I recommend a nine-mile, moderately difficult trek that will take you onto a mountaintop, where you can enjoy a picnic with an awesome view. Along the way, you'll see Grandfather Mountain, Deep Gap, and Raven Rock, and glimpse Elk Creek.
Pack a lunch, and head out past the old Keyes log cabin and to Apple Tree Trail. Then get onto Black Rock Trail, which is scenic and is an easier climb than some other routes to the ridge top. From there, turn left on the Daniel Boone Trail, where you'll spot a great place for lunch. After enjoying your lunch and the view, mount up, and ride until you connect onto Johnny Cake, then to Eagle Eye and Ambush Trail, which will lead you back to the stables.
All trails feature ever-changing scenery as they twist and wind up and down through old-growth hemlocks, massive oaks, dogwoods, and a thick growth of mountain laurel and rhododendron. During spring and summer, the foliage comes alive with wildflowers, including the most impressive trillium. On the mountaintop, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views that end at the far horizon, with mountains and foothills in between.
You may glimpse deer, fox, raccoon, coyote, possum, wild turkey, and all types of birds. You might even get a rare view of a bobcat or mountain lion. There are bears, but they tend to shy away from humans. You might see an occasional hiker or fellow rider, but no motorized vehicles are allowed.
Although some of the trails can be challenging because of the climbs and descents, the footing is soft, with little to no rocks, so hoof pads aren't necessary. However, breastcollars are recommended, to keep your saddle in place on steep trails.
Trails are well-marked, and the map and trail signs are easy to follow. Fanciful trail names include Ambush Trail, Eagle Eye, Hogback, Slick Rock, Johnny Cake, Thunderbolt, Tricky Creek, and Trot-A-Lot.
Inside Tips
During the heat of the summer, plan to ride early in the morning and late in the afternoon, although it's typically 10 degrees cooler on the shaded mountain trails. The rest of the year, wear layers, and pack raingear. Even though it may be pleasant when you head out for a ride, the weather can change as quickly as the elevation.
You'll find abundant water for your horse in the lower elevations, but fewer places on the higher trails. Bring electrolytes if you plan to go on long rides, especially in the summer months. Don't forget your drinking water and bug repellent. Although the flies and ticks aren't a big problem, gnats can be worrisome in the summer.
If you don't own a horse or can't bring him with you, stable horses are available for lessons and guided trail rides.You might want to take a day to visit the high-country town of Boone (18 miles away), or sightsee at Blowing Rock (25 miles away) or Grandfather Mountain (40 miles away). On the last weekend of April, you can catch the four-day Bluegrass Merle Fest (800/343-7857; www.merlefest.org).
