Visiting from CA and we wanted to go horseback riding. This place was amazing. The views and terrain were absolutely beautiful. Candie was our guide and she was great. Definitely would recommend and will come back again. Thank you for a wonderful time read more

Extremely Frustrating Experience - Please Fix Your Address Info We had a really disappointing experience with Sugarlands Riding Stables due to serious issues with their address and lack of communication. We originally mapped "Sugarlands Riding Stables" on Apple Maps -- it led us to the wrong location (see attached image). So we tried the address listed on their actual website (1409 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN -- sugarlandsstables.com), typed it into both Apple and Google Maps -- and again were taken to another incorrect location, this time to a random candle shop downtown (see image of 1409 parkway mapped). Our friends in another car finally found the correct spot only because they physically clicked the address link in Google, which took them to the right location. Turns out the stables are actually located off Newfound Gap Road, near the Two Mile Lead Concession Horse Trailhead ( see image on Google maps)-- not downtown, and nowhere near any of the addresses they list. When we arrived, we were told they couldn't take us because the second car was 20 minutes late -- even though we had booked online a month in advance and had no way of getting accurate directions. I had also tried calling multiple times over several days, and no one ever answered. When we got there, the staff even admitted that many people are getting mapped to the wrong location but offered no real solution -- just that "you have to click the link" instead of typing the address in. How are people supposed to know that? Especially when the website sugarlandsstables.com is the one giving the wrong address? The owner responded to our review saying we must have looked at the old contractor's website -- but we absolutely didn't. We looked at the correct, working website (again: sugarlandsstables.com), which clearly lists the incorrect 1409 Parkway address. The old stables aren't even in operation anymore, so not sure why that was suggested. If you know this is a repeated issue, why not: * Update the address on your actual website * Add a clear note with real directions * Mention landmarks like the cemetery or the trailhead * Add a Google Pin that clearly marks "Sugarlands Riding Stables" at the right location * Set up a working phone line or at least a live chat They claimed their phones were down from storms, but if you're running a business, there should be a backup -- like a cell phone or an auto-reply that helps people. There's clearly WiFi because they process online bookings, so the excuse doesn't cut it. They did refund us, but then said the booking company is based in Florida and they don't really have a connection with them -- and they couldn't give us a phone number or contact to follow up. Also, the confirmation email had no address at all, so there was nothing helpful to go off of if you didn't already know exactly where to go. The worst part? Their attitude. Their responses to reviews are so defensive, blaming customers rather than just being understanding or proactive. It's really unprofessional. If you know people are regularly being misdirected to downtown Gatlinburg, just fix it. Don't accuse the customer. TL;DR: We lost out on a paid booking because of mapping issues, no communication, and a lack of transparency. They gave a refund, but the way they handled it -- and how they treat customers -- left a really bad taste in our mouth. A simple website fix and better attitude could go a long way. read more

See all

We had a ride scheduled for December 29 that was canceled due to weather. This was planned during our vacation and was meant to be a special experience for our daughter. Since the cancellation, I have made multiple attempts to follow up. I have spoken with three different people and even came in person on the scheduled date. Each time, I was told that a refund would be issued. Last week, I was informed that the refund was being processed and that I should have received it by the beginning of this week. It is Mid January and still no response or update. Sad. We live in a different state. read more

How would you feel if you had to carry over a 100lbs up a 4 mile trail with a 1000 foot hill to climb with no shoes not being feed but a snack of two flakes of hay a day. This is what is being supported when you rent a horse for a hour trail ride. these pictures was taken by an employee still working there two days ago. I left last season due to the fact the Manager was telling us to cut the feed and hay cause the owner didn't have the money to buy hay and was behind on the hay bill of over 10,000 dollars. These horses are so much worse off then last year and the 2025 season has just started. read more

See all

Absolute awful experience. Booked online for a horse back ride for my sisters 21st birthday. We get there and we're told that someone booked at the same time as us and their systems overbooked. They told us they could fit us in the next day or refund us that's all they could do. After pleading with them that we were the first party to show up and also already paid OVER $300 for this reservation so why couldn't they let us have the spot instead of the other party since we were there FIRST and THEIR systems overbooked. They were very short and rude specifically the lady in the back office. Horrible customer service and made us feel like it was our fault for their overbooking. So here we are over 10 hours away from home for a birthday trip and are out over $300 because we have to wait 5-7 business days for a refund. WILL NEVER COME BACK. read more

I had a GREAT experience riding a horse my first time at Sugarlands Riding Stable. The horse assigned to me was Squirrel (I think his original name was Coby?) and he was funny. Reminded me of my dog, both are similar in that they're like on a mission to go somewhere, my horse kept trotting so fast and often got really close to the guide's horse. I learned how to brake. I loved the whole ride, the trail was beautiful, and I felt safe. The guide was Josh riding Oreo, a funny horse as well because he would keep testing Josh. I had a tough time understanding Josh at first when he instructed me what to grab onto and how to hold the leash (?), but after a while, I understood and was able to relax a bit and not be so tensed on how to handle riding a horse. May from the front desk counter was really nice, she explained everything thoroughly and had a calming soothing voice. She also showed us our pictures from the horse ride. We decided to purchase two prints and receive pictures through airdrop, total came out to around $20. My only feedback for the prints are that the prints came out dark, so I'm glad I got the digital pictures. The horse ride for 1 hour per person was $40. read more

See all

This was a very professional outfit. Minimum age to ride was 5 years old and Maximum weight was 220 lbs. all adults have to be weighed before purchasing tickets. Our guide Dakota and the rest of the staff were very reassuring. We had such a quiet ride...I didn't know my kids could be that quiet but we were all focused on staying balanced on our horses. The horses were so gentle and didn't give us any cause for concern. I would highly recommend this place for first-timers on a horse! read more

See all

This place is still open!! Just under new management. We had the BEST time on our one hour ride. Our guide Jacob was super knowledgeable about the land and the horses. This is a MUST do if you are in the smoky mountains. Didn't see any bears, but bear season isn't in full swing yet! So much fun! Would come again read more

Sugarlands Riding Stable - Horseback Riding Near Me - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Sugarlands Riding Stables switched ownership in 2023 and now they are open 7 days a week, including holidays. Every time I've passed through Gatlinburg for the last 3 years, I make sure to go riding here. In the summer, the views were obscured by the vegetation, but that didn't stop me. There are some spots where you can see Gatlinburg and mountaintops. Once I got to see a bear. My guide, Lesley, was great at pointing out scenic points and telling us about the area. I can't wait to go back! read more

See all

Have been there before, everything was fine. Got there today and was informed they were at least an hour behind. They were waiting for a guide and horses were being shoed. The group that was scheduled an hour before us was still waiting. They had our phone and email and could have notified us. read more

My daughter and I had a great experience with Sugarland. We are both inexperienced riders but felt comfortable with the horses they picked for us. The trail was alittle muddy and rough but it made the ride much more interesting, challenging and fun. We rode Maddy and Uncle Cy, both horses had their own personalities. The views were stunning. Great way to see the mountains! I highly recommend this stable. read more

This place is awesome! The front desk lady Patti was nice. We got there at 11:45am on a Tuesday and their next available riding time was at 1pm. We signed up for the 1 hour riding time and by the time we got back it had been an hour and a half. We had a group of 5 people on our ride and the guide Christy was really good about making sure the group stayed together. Christy was awesome and so nice!!! The horse I rode liked to go fast so I was right behind the guide the whole time and we talked the whole time!! Christy also pointed out different nature spots throughout the ride such as bear paths, hog beds, muscadine grapes, and so much more! We also got to see a baby bear towards the end of our ride about 100 ft away!!! I was told it's normal for this stable to see at least one bear a day on one of their rides. You could spot bears, snakes, and deer if you're lucky, and also wild hogs if you're unlucky. I used to go to horseback riding camp when I was younger and have rode horseback in my adult years as well. My parents have only rode horses a handful of times on guided trails and we all thought this was an easy and amazing experience. We would definitely go again if we lived here and recommend to others as well! The only bad thing is you can't take your phone on the ride to take pictures :( read more

We loved our experience at Sugarlands Riding Stable! We went during off season in September, the prices were comparable to what we would expect, but the employees made the experience absolutely wonderful. We were weighed and asked our experience level (none) and matched with a horse that had wonderful temperaments. The employees love and care so well for their animals, they were kind and informative, giving instructions clearly and answering all of our questions. Our guide, Jenny, was amazing. She let us enjoy the scenery in silence, but also coached us along the trail when we needed, took pictures of us that she later airdropped, told stories and pointed out places of interest as we went along. We absolutely loved it and cannot recommend it enough! read more

Sugarlands Riding Stable - Horseback Riding Near Me - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

We almost gave up because it was really on new found gap road , guess it could come up as both... but I'm sooo glad we made it! What a ride! I don't want to spoil it but the view and ride were spectacular. They immediately put me at ease once I arrived, the Jersey in me was fired up from getting lost, but each staff member was so nice, funny, polite and helpful! The horses were gentle and each had their own little personality! You can't miss this experience. My 13 and 11 year old girls loved it. We would have gone back the next day but we had already moved on in our travels. Thank you for a great experience! read more

Have the address listed incorrectly and horses have very bad saddle back :(. The lady at the counter was a little mean.

their address is wrong on everything! it's absolute insane we spent two hours driving around trying to find this place. all the the addresses were wrong apple maps, their website, google. they don't answer the phone ridiculous people, horrible experience, horses looked awful very . PLEASE JUST GO TO big rock ranch read more

Stunning views and amazing staff. our family of 5 had a wonderful time. the staff made sure all the kids felt safe and comfortable. thank you! this was the highlight of our trip read more

We made a reservation with Sugarlands Riding Stable a few days in advance, but were told on arrival that our group was delayed as they were running behind. Unfortunately with our reservation time being in the afternoon, they ended up having to cancel our group as they ran out of time. It was our last day in Gatlinburg, and our kids were upset that we weren't able to do the one activity they most looked forward to doing. We planned our entire last days activities around this excursion, and wasted an entire afternoon waiting to see if we'd get to go on the ride. They should've updated us earlier in the morning as to their delayed schedule. Doing so would've allowed us to plan our day much better, or given us the opportunity to schedule a horseback excursion with another organization. Hope they are able to fix this issue for others going forward. read more

A couple of suggestions for improvements: 1. They need to improve their intake process. We called at 10:30ish to ask for directions and let the woman at the desk know we were on our way. Once we got there, we were told there were no rides available until 2:30. The phone attendant could've told of that before we showed up. We then booked for 2:30 and didn't get in the horses until 3:30ish. 2. There needs to be a better place for folks to wait until their rides are ready - especially if they're waiting for at least an hour in the heat. 3. Lots of scary spiders in the bathroom. Look at pest control to make it more comfortable for guests. 4. The terrain is hilly. Be prepared for a backache if you're not a frequent rider. read more

Came here 7 years ago and wanted to come back to ride here again! Blaine was amazing and the horses did so good on our trail! We even got to see a little bear cub and our guide handled everything so well! Can't wait to be back next time! Thank you again Blaine for all your help and wonderful service! read more

Staff seems nice but terrain is very steep and rocky. The horse I was given stumbled several times trying to navigate the terrain. We were told she is very old, maybe it's time to keep her on flat terrain. On the descent back to the stable my horse fell forward onto her knees and the saddle slipped sideways sending me off the horse and onto the ground. At the ER now having my possible dislocated shoulder looked at. With Tennessee law the stable is not responsible for anything and not even sure why they have insurance if they are fully indemnified. We are out of state and our health coverage only covers in state. We will probably be out thousands of dollars out of pocket. Either the horse should not be sent on such steep terrain or the saddle should have been tighter, avoiding it spinning and dumping me onto the ground. read more

Very friendly staff and experience, we called ahead and reserved a spot, got there 30 minutes early and no issues, trail is up the mountain (along a creek) and back down, 1 hour was perfect amount of time, enjoy your ride!! read more

I was drawn to this spot for horseback riding because it is inside the park. I also love that they do not take reservations and it is first come first served. We called about 30 minutes prior to arriving just to make sure they could take us. We paid at the window and were saddled up less than 10 minutes later. Everyone got their own horse, including my 5 year old. The horses were calm which was good for our young kids. There was one other couple in our group so was a pretty small group. The ride was pretty and the guide did not say a ton, which could be good for some who want to take in the serene environment, or bad if you want to know more about the land or park. Everyone in our group had a great time! read more

We visited on a Wednesday, and arrived around opening time. We had to wait about 10 min for a group in front of us that was doing a 2 hour ride. While we waited we chatted with the employees and got to see some wild turkey! I happened to have a very stubborn horse, named Hickory. It was pretty funny. I think he/she? learned pretty quick that I wasn't going to allow them to snack on the vegetation along the trail without a fight. I could predict when they were about to turn their head and go for a bite. Haha. It didn't always go my way, but I tried. My husband and I absolutely loved the ride!! The scenery is beautiful, and we saw a bear in the creek within the first few minutes! Worth every penny. The only place we'll go to ride horses now when we're visiting the smokies. We did buy 2 pictures, I think it came out to about $20. And they do allow you to bring your phone to take pics, just at your own risk....it's pretty easy to drop and lots of people have. read more

See all

Good Guide, Well informed of local lore and history, Horses were very well mannered. All staff super friendly and out going. The scenery was beautiful. Trail is in the Smokey Mountain National Park..Super easy drive easy access to stables. read more

Sugarlands Riding Stable - Horseback Riding Near Me - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

tried to call a week in advance to make a reservation but we were told that it was not necessary... that it would be "first come first serve". we tried to follow the address on the website and we were led on a wild goose chase. come to find out that the address on the website was wrong and maybe hadn't been updated? arrived after calling and asking for the correct address only to find out that it was reservation only! this was a disappointment as we had been planning for this day for weeks in advance and had been told the opposite. unfortunately we will not be staying for much longer and won't be able to make a reservation of any kind. disappointed. read more

Had a fantastic 1.5 hour ride with tour guide Candace! She was very friendly and knowledgeable of the area and horses! Their website and phone are down due to a change in management! Don't let that prevent you from giving them a try! I am attaching the numbers they gave to me! read more

Sugarlands Riding Stable - Horseback Riding Near Me - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

See all

I had a great time! Everyone I interacted with was very friendly. The ride was very easy considering I am an inexperienced rider. The horses seem very well cared for. I can't wait to go back and take a longer ride to see more of the park. read more

See all

Most amazing experience horse back riding in the smoky mountains. We chose to do the 1 1/2 hour (6 mile) tour and we arrived around 11:00am on a Fall Tuesday morning. Lucky for us we only had to wait about an hour before riding. This was the best horse back riding excursion I've been on. We were encouraged to not be nose to tail and actually give a good amount of room between horses. We crossed two rivers and went up and down mountains. This tour was awesome. We saw so many fall colors and got views from the top. I rode black pearl and my fiancé rode Red Bull, both were GREAT horses. Joe was our guide and he was great. Thanks Sugarlands for an amazing tour!! read more

See all

Go early! It is my understanding that depending on season they fill up fast. Horses were beautiful. Staff were friendly and professional. The ride itself was beautiful. My only concern was when asked if the horses got a break after a ride, I was told no. At the end of the ride and beginning they do take pictures of you for sale at the end. Reasonable pricing. Overall besides my concern for the hores wellbeing. I would go again. Beautiful Ride! read more

We had a great time but they should have a person dedicated to the phone. The nice lady at the desk was having to juggle too much. Joe was our ride leader and did a fabulous job helping the little kids with us manage their horses. Overall the staff was great all around except for one crabby old man. We would definitely do this again! Great memories had by all! read more

Sugarlands Riding Stable - Horseback Riding Near Me - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

My daughter and i did the 1 hour ride. The ride goes up about 6000 feet there is a lot of uphill and downhill and you get to cross a couple streams. Our guide was very helpful and friendly. Horses were beautiful and easy to ride. my daughter and i arrived early and were able to be our own "group". There is a weight limit of 225 pounds on the horses due to the stable being on the state park. It's state regulated. They will weigh you when you check in. The staff was very friendly and offers to sell you pics they take of you on the horses. read more

See all

If I could give Sugarlands Riding Stable 10 stars, I would! What an absolutely incredible experience - a must do if you're in Gatlinburg! We saw amazing views, and the horses are so kind and gentle (and great for first time riders as well as experienced riders!). I can't rave enough about how amazing the staff is - they are so welcoming, accommodating, knowledgeable, and truly made our entire trip so far - they go above and beyond. We will definitely be back!!! read more

See all

Do yourself a favor and come check out the stables on your trip to Gatlinburg. Price is moderate. About $35 for one hour ride. But the views are amazing and hospitality charming. They do not take reservations. So you must arrive and put your name down for a ride ahead of time. We were lucky on this day there was no wait and we were able to jump on the trail ride right away. They added six of us without any problems. They took us over the mountain on a 6 mile ride. We saw wild turkey but no bear on this day. Youngest age is 5 years old and for my 6yo they led her by rope. We did not have helmets but I believe they offered them. Overall a wonderful experience that was 6 thumbs up from our crew. read more

Amazing horse trail up a mountain along a stream with waterfalls. Just a fantastic day. Might go back again tomorrow. Go early as they book up fast. read more

We had such a fun time here! The horses were very sweet and seemed to be well taken care of. They have a couple of horses out front for you to pet and they were well mannered. The entire staff was incredibly friendly. The lady I spoke to on the phone even worked us in last minute which was crazy because they were booked solid the whole day! I couldn't thank her enough. The ride is nice and gives you a great look at the mountains. It is a little steep at some points so I would just be prepared for that. I loved it! Just a heads up I wouldn't bring phones or anything with you on the ride though because I saw a few on the ground near the top of the trail so definitely listen to the staff when they say "don't bring anything with you". They even take photos of you which you can buy after. I think they put them on a flash drive, cd, or air drop via iPhone. They also have hoodies and shirts to buy as well. read more

See all

The trail ride with Sugarlands was an anticipated highlight of my friends' and my trip to Tennessee for the week. We looked forward to it and were so excited. However, it was disappointing when we came to check in, as they asked my friends and I to step on the scale before we paid. That in itself is not an issue. The weight limit is posted online and on the pre-recorded answering machine, but they made the situation fairly negative because they did not ask anyone else to step on a scale except for our group. It was obvious that they only asked our group of 4 to weigh in, as families and other groups paid in front of us without being asked, regardless of how they looked. Our party shrank after that. Then, we sat and waited for our ride for over an hour and watched many people come in to buy their tickets without going inside to be weighed. My friends have ridden horses many times, in many places (other than businesses), and doing different things outside of trail rides with no issues. But some of my party could not/did not want to join because of this moment. If you have a weight limit, do not only ask parties with people who appear to you to be over it to weigh themselves. Be consistent or be at the risk of genuinely ruining an experience and time. There were multiple people we saw who were not asked to come inside and weigh themselves, despite people over 6' or anyone else who could've been checked. It was unprofessional and although the staff was kind, it was blatantly discriminatory and the manner it was handled was embarrassing, when if it were simply checked for everyone it would not have been singling anyone out. The horses were great, the staff helping with the horses/rides were kind, and it was beautiful scenery, but it really hurt that a friend of mine was put in that position because of how they looked. Please be kind. Please just be consistent with the policy, because you do not know who's day or week could be tarnished by being singled out for their appearance. read more

My family of 5 did this today! I recommend getting there before the open. Our tour guide Jen, was fantastic! She was so knowledgable and talked to our children the entire ride. If you're an experienced rider or a new rider they definitely have you covered. My kids asked if we could do it again during this trip, but we want everyone who wants to experience the true joy, peacefulness and beautiful land. The horses also know what they are doing. So just listen and lean forward or lean back and just do it. You won't regret it and it is a memory you and your family will never forget. Oh, and everyone is so personable and chatty. Loved every moment of this ride. Thank you for giving us a memory I will never forget as long as I live. I rode Lumpy, she was so great and made sure we didn't lose my husband, who was on Dixie. Roaster made all of us chuckle because he didn't like to get his hooves dirty. My daughter was on Ghost and they were like the same in que with one another. My son was on Queen and he said she was the best for a young kid. He sat back and enjoyed the trip read more

Experienced many of the same negative issues other yelpers have shared. While the location and scenery are ideal, the staff, for the most part, are rushed and rude. In particular, an older man, who I assume is the same gentleman others refer to in their posts, has no business working in any kind of service industry! My family have done several trail rides in our home state of Texas, and we learned our lesson to save the horse riding for home! And I definitely DO NOT recommend Sugarlands Riding Stable! read more

My family (2 adults and 2 kids, ages 7 and 9) and I had a great time on the 1 hour ride. The staff was welcoming and helpful. The barn is nestled right in the National Park, so the entire ride is in the Smoky Mountains and mostly shaded. They have helmets available, but you will need to ask if you would like one. You are welcome to take you phone along on the ride (at your own risk). The staff will also take photos at the beginning and end of the ride (for purchase). While the staff quickly goes through how to ride (leaning back, leaning forward, stopping, and going faster), rest assured the horses are very well trained and do not need much coaxing to go/stop/turn. The guide will also remind you along the route what to do, so we felt confident throughout. Our lead, Joe, was incredible with our kids. They were comfortable riding the entire time (and our youngest was initially scared to get on, but did great). Joe chatted with them, and shared stories and answered our questions along the ride. We loved the views, the pace, and the history learned along the way! read more