Cades Cove is a historic, beautiful valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Horseback riding is your relaxing way to experience the wildlife, scenery, and history of Cades Cove, thanks to Cades Cove Riding Stables. Explore these 5 reasons to see the valley from horseback.

1. Try Something New

Whether you’ve never been on a horse or you’re an experienced rider, your guide will find just the right steed for you. The stables’ horses are old hands at navigating the trails and chosen for their calm temperaments. You’ll get an orientation before you hit the trail, so you can relax, knowing you’ll have a gentle, safe ride. Groups on trail rides are limited to nine, so you never feel crowded or rushed.

2. Make Memories with the Kids

Horseback riding is a great way to encourage kids and teens to unplug for a while. Screens can’t compete with a breathtaking glimpse of a black bear staring back at you through the trees.

Kids of all ages can participate, too: Children as young as six can enjoy trail rides, and kids as young as two are welcome on the carriage rides and hayrides the stables offer.

3. Travel Back in Time

Experience living history when you go horseback riding in Cades Cove. In the 19th century, settlers embraced this beautiful valley, building homesteads, mills, and churches you can still see today. When you amble through Cades Cove on horseback or in a carriage, you’re traveling just like the early settlers traveled. It’s as if your horse takes you back in time.

4. See Nature Up Close

Cades Cove is famed for abundant and easy-to-spot wildlife. Sure, you can see wildlife from your car on the road. But imagine how much closer you’ll get as you clop quietly through the woods, with a sharp-eyed guide who knows where to look! The Smokies’ beloved black bears forage in the Cove. Deer stroll through. Watch for coyotes, wild turkeys, and birds galore.

5. Trust an Experienced Stable

As the only National Park Service-authorized stables in Cades Cove, these stables know the Cove like no one else. Trail guides and carriage drivers are steeped in local knowledge and want to share it with you and your family.

Stay close to the national park so you don’t miss a thing in this wild and wonderful natural treasure. Reserve your Tennessee vacation cabin today.