Explore Blue Ridge backcountry with river fords, mountain views, and a historic railroad bed
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4 hours
Join an exhilarating trail riding experience to the top of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains through varied terrain and elevation changes. Great for all experience levels.
Ages 10 and up; helmets and enclosed shoes required, long pants recommended. Rides run rain or shine; arrive 15 minutes early and ensure all participants sign a waiver. Cell service is limited and GPS is not advised; bring printed directions.
Rides run rain or shine. If the operator cancels for unsafe conditions, rides are rescheduled or a refund may be issued; the booking fee is refunded. Non-payment may result in cancellation within 72 hours of the ride. No-shows receive no refund. Reschedule or cancel at least 72 hours before your ride for a refund; booking fee is nonrefundable.
396 Fork Mountain Road, Montebello, VA 24464
With near-perfect reviews from hundreds of riders, this outfitter consistently delivers authentic mountain trail experiences that feel worlds away from typical nose-to-tail tourist rides. Jeanette leads most trips and earns raps for her extensive knowledge of both horses and terrain, plus her ability to match riders with appropriate mounts and adjust instruction to different skill levels. Several reviewers specifically noted how well-cared-for and sure-footed the horses are, with one experienced rider's spouse commenting that her horse "was doing a great job watching out for me" despite 25+ years away from riding. The trails themselves showcase diverse Appalachian landscapes—streams, mountain views, forests, and fields—with challenging terrain that experienced riders appreciate while still being manageable for first-timers. Groups ranging from bachelorette parties to families with young kids to riders in their 60s all reported feeling comfortable and having a blast. Multiple people mentioned Jeanette's thoughtfulness, from providing gloves on unexpectedly cold mornings to taking and airdropping photos. This operation works well for both complete beginners seeking patient instruction and seasoned riders wanting a genuine mountain adventure.
What a great experience we had riding horses but especially "learning" how to properly ride horses @ Appalachian Horse Adventures. Janette's detailed instructions were right on track - there was a lot to learn but she kept us going reminding us of the proper way to work with our specific horse and his/her personalities! It all worked out as it became an adventurous ride full of fun and beauty. The trail was diverse which went along with the locale and geology of the area. We grew as new equestrians over the 2 hours and became confident in our ability to connect with our horses and therefore with the terrain and the ride. Janette checked in with us every now-and-then to make sure we were taking the right steps, reminding us of the connection between our horse-to-human status through the relationship of the bridle and the "color-coded" reins. The confidence and trust we gained with the horses made the whole event incredible and heightened the enjoyment of the trip! Yay!!
Brad Birchett
April 14, 2026
What a great experience we had riding horses but especially "learning" how to properly ride horses @ Appalachian Horse Adventures. Janette's detailed instructions were right on track - there was a lot to learn but she kept us going reminding us of the proper way to work with our specific horse and his/her personalities! It all worked out as it became an adventurous ride full of fun and beauty. The trail was diverse which went along with the locale and geology of the area. We grew as new equestrians over the 2 hours and became confident in our ability to connect with our horses and therefore with the terrain and the ride. Janette checked in with us every now-and-then to make sure we were taking the right steps, reminding us of the connection between our horse-to-human status through the relationship of the bridle and the "color-coded" reins. The confidence and trust we gained with the horses made the whole event incredible and heightened the enjoyment of the trip! Yay!!
Brad Birchett
April 14, 2026