Horseback Riding Trails in the Appalachians

Explore horseback riding trails along the picturesque foothills of the Appalachian mountain range. Views such as forested areas, vistas and numerous wildlife surround the countless miles of bridle trails in the region. The Appalachians cross 13 states, and the paths are as varied as the states they belong to.

  1. Geography

    • The Appalachian mountain range is in eastern North America, located mostly in the northeastern United States. The Appalachian region encompasses all of West Virginia and also extends through 12 states from the southern part of New York down to Alabama and Mississippi. Spanning more than 1,500 miles, the mountain range comprises gentle hills, rugged terrain and dense forests. Numerous trails in the foothills of the region are open for many types of recreation including horseback riding.

    Mid-Atlantic States

    • This region includes parts of the mid-Atlantic states such as New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Virginia horseback riders can access trails along the Appalachians or take riding lessons and tours from one of the ranches and farms within the state. Pine Mountain Trail in Clintwood spans 26 miles and is located at the Appalachian's western edge. The trail features a parking lot for horse trailers and occurs from Pound Gap to the Breaks Interstate Park. In West Virginia, visit the Equestrian Center at Glade Springs Resort in Daniels. Riding lessons and guided trail rides are available on marked trails that meander along hills and mountain streams.

    Southern Region

    • The Appalachian's southern region includes parts of Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi. Ride along the trails of Buck's Pocket, a 2,000-acre state park in the northeast part of Alabama. Situated in the foothills of the Appalachians, the park offers six miles of scenic bridle trails with features like vistas, woodlands and water views. Riders can view wildlife along the path like migratory waterfowl, egrets and blue herons. For Tennessee riders, trails are available in Warriors' Path State Park in Kingsport. The park has stables and riding trails that wind through scenic woodlands. Visitors can choose a horse from the park stables or board their own, depending on space availability.

    Midwest

    • Horseback riders in Ohio can explore trails along the Beaver Creek State Park in East Liverpool and Barkcamp State Park in Belmont. Beaver Creek is nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians and features 2,722 acres of forest wilderness. Along the way, equestrians can view sights like a national wild river, a gorge and Little Beaver Creek.