Skip to main content
Davy Crockett Riding Stables stable in Townsend, TN
Photo: Sharon Laughery
View of Davy Crockett Riding Stables in Townsend, TN
Photo: Google Maps Man
View of Davy Crockett Riding Stables in Townsend, TN
Photo: Michael Yaeger

Davy Crockett Riding Stables

4.8(625 reviews)$$Adventure
🕑 1.5-2.5 hours (including check-in, safety briefing, and the trail ride itself, which typically lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour)👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Most stables require riders to be at least 5-6 years old and able to sit independently in the saddle. Teens and adults will equally enjoy the peaceful trail rides, making this a fantastic multi-generational activity where everyone rides together.

About

Davy Crockett Riding Stables offers families an authentic Smoky Mountain horseback riding experience on gentle, well-trained horses perfect for beginners. This family-owned stable has earned outstanding reviews for its patient guides who make even first-time riders feel comfortable while exploring scenic mountain trails surrounded by breathtaking Tennessee wilderness.

Highlights

  • Gentle, well-trained horses perfect for nervous or first-time riders
  • Experienced, friendly guides who share stories about the area and ensure everyone feels safe
  • Scenic mountain trails with views of the Smokies and peaceful forest surroundings
  • Family-owned operation with a personal touch and genuine hospitality
  • Photo opportunities along the trail to capture your family's horseback adventure

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Call ahead to reserve your ride time, especially during peak summer months and fall foliage season when slots fill up quickly
  2. 2.Wear closed-toe shoes (boots or sneakers) and long pants to protect legs from saddle chafing - no sandals or flip-flops allowed
  3. 3.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to complete paperwork, get fitted with helmets, and meet your horse without feeling rushed
  4. 4.Bring a small backpack with water and snacks for after the ride, but leave it in your car as you won't be able to carry it on the trail
  5. 5.Ask your guide about local wildlife and plant life - they're incredibly knowledgeable about the Smoky Mountain ecosystem

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery with wildflowers or fall foliage. Visit on weekday mornings for smaller groups and a more personalized experience. Summer mornings before 11 AM help you beat the heat.

What to Know

Rides typically cost $30-50 per person depending on trail length. Weight limits usually apply (around 250 lbs). Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for larger families, and can be made by phone.

Seasonal Notes

Closed on Sundays year-round. Weather-dependent, so call ahead during winter months or rainy periods as trails may close for safety. Fall foliage season (late September through October) is exceptionally popular - book well in advance. Summer offers the longest operating hours but can be hot and humid.

Nearby Eats

Head to Trailhead Steak & Trout House (5 minutes away) for hearty Southern fare and kid-friendly menu options, or stop by the Apple Valley Cafe for homestyle breakfast and lunch favorites including their famous apple fritters that kids adore.

More Activities Near Townsend

Adventure

Townsend 'Y' Wye Recreation Area

Free

The Townsend 'Y' Wye Recreation Area is where the Little River and Middle Prong meet, creating a natural playground perfect for families with young children. The shallow, clear mountain waters are ideal for wading and splashing, while sandy banks provide plenty of space for picnicking and building sandcastles. This peaceful spot offers an authentic Smoky Mountain river experience without the crowds found at busier swimming holes.

Adventure

Cades Cove Riding Stables

4.5$$

Cades Cove Riding Stables offers families an unforgettable way to explore the Great Smoky Mountains on horseback with professional guides leading you through stunning mountain trails. With gentle, well-trained horses perfect for beginners and routes designed for all skill levels, even first-time riders can confidently experience the beauty of the Smokies from the saddle.

Adventure

Chestnut Top Trailhead

4.5Free

Chestnut Top Trailhead offers families an accessible introduction to Great Smoky Mountains hiking without the intense elevation gains of more challenging trails. The well-maintained path winds through stunning old-growth forest where kids can spot wildlife, discover seasonal wildflowers, and learn about the area's natural history while hiking to historic Schoolhouse Gap.

Activity

Tuckaleechee Caverns

4.8$$

Tuckaleechee Caverns offers an unforgettable underground adventure for families, featuring America's highest-rated cavern tour with jaw-dropping waterfalls and massive rock formations. The one-mile guided tour takes families through well-lit chambers at a comfortable pace, making geology exciting and accessible for kids who'll be amazed by the dramatic underground waterfalls and cathedral-sized rooms.