How long should I spend at Five Oaks Riding Stables?

Plan about 1.5-2 hours total. The trail ride itself is one hour, but you'll need to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and safety briefing. If you're doing the zipline combo, budget 3+ hours.

Is Five Oaks Riding Stables good for kids?

Absolutely! Kids 6 and older can ride their own horse, while ages 3-5 can ride double with an adult. The guides are great with children, and the trail is scenic without being too challenging for beginners.

Is there parking at Five Oaks Riding Stables?

Yes, there's free on-site parking at the Adventure Park complex. It's right off the Parkway across from Tanger Outlets, so it's super easy to find and park.

What's the weight limit for horseback riding?

The maximum weight limit is 270 pounds per rider, and they do enforce this strictly for safety reasons. It's worth confirming when you book if you're close to the limit.

What should I wear for horseback riding at Five Oaks?

Long pants are required to prevent saddle rubbing, and you must wear closed-toe shoes with a heel - no sandals or flip-flops. Bring water, and consider a light jacket since the trail is mostly shaded.

Five Oaks Riding Stables

Duration

1.5-2 hours (3+ hours if adding ziplines)

Best For

Families with kids 6 and older • First-time horseback riders • Groups wanting guaranteed ride times

Pro Tip

Book the 9 AM ride on weekdays - you'll beat the heat, avoid crowds, and the horses are most energetic in the morning.

About Five Oaks Riding Stables

Five Oaks Riding Stables stands out as one of the premier equestrian destinations in the Smokies, offering an exceptional hour-long trail ride experience through 70 acres of pristine forest. The journey includes fascinating stops at a replica moonshine still and culminates with breathtaking mountain vistas that showcase the region's natural beauty.

The stable's crown jewel is its 3.5-mile shaded loop trail, expertly designed to wind through babbling streams and secluded wooded coves. Riders can expect well-trained horses paired with knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience by sharing captivating local stories while ensuring every guest feels secure and comfortable throughout the adventure.

At $54.99 per person, Five Oaks commands a premium compared to other area stables, but the investment proves worthwhile given their reservation system that eliminates the lengthy wait times common at competing facilities. This efficiency allows visitors to maximize their vacation time without uncertainty.

The location offers additional convenience, situated directly on the Parkway adjacent to zipline attractions, making it effortless for families to combine multiple outdoor activities in a single day. This proximity creates an ideal adventure hub for those seeking varied entertainment options.

Guests should note the mandatory dress code requiring long pants and closed-toe shoes with heels, as the stable strictly enforces these safety requirements for all riders.

Last updated: February 22, 2026 • Based on 2,564 reviews

Amenities & Features

Exceptionally patient and friendly guides (especially Matt and Blaine) who take time to help first-timers and nervous riders feel comfortableWell-trained, gentle horses with distinct personalities that are carefully matched to each rider's experience levelBeautiful scenic mountain trail with lovely views throughout the rideStaff genuinely care about the horses and maintain a clean, well-run facility

Don't Miss

3.5-Mile Shaded Loop Trail

The trail winds through 70 acres of beautiful forest with streams, wooded coves, and mountain views. It's mostly shaded which keeps things comfortable even in summer, and the terrain is varied enough to be interesting without being scary for beginners.

Replica Moonshine Still

One of the coolest stops along the trail is an authentic-looking moonshine still where guides share stories about the area's bootlegging history. It's a fun photo op and gives you a taste of local mountain culture.

Ridge-Top Mountain Views

The trail climbs to some beautiful overlooks where you can see the Smoky Mountains stretching out in the distance. It's not wilderness-level scenery, but it's definitely Instagram-worthy and a nice reward for the ride up.

Well-Trained Horses and Guides

The horses are calm and well-behaved, making this a great choice for nervous or first-time riders. The guides really know their stuff and do a great job making everyone feel comfortable while sharing local stories.

Reservation System

Unlike most other stables in the area that are first-come, first-served, Five Oaks actually takes reservations. This means no waiting around for hours hoping a spot opens up - you can plan your day around a guaranteed ride time.

Zipline Combo Option

Since the stables share property with Adventure Park at Five Oaks, you can easily combine horseback riding with ziplines in one visit. The combo package saves money and makes for a full day of outdoor adventure.

Know Before You Go

Arrive 30 minutes early or risk losing your time slot
Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes with heels - strictly enforced
Weight limit is 270 pounds per rider, no exceptions
They operate in light rain but cancel for heavy storms with refunds
Kids under 12 should book tours starting on the hour for better pacing

Opening Hours

Monday8 AM to 7 PM

Tuesday8 AM to 7 PM

Wednesday8 AM to 7 PM

Thursday8 AM to 7 PM

Friday8 AM to 7 PM

Saturday8 AM to 7 PM

Sunday8 AM to 7 PM

Best Times to Visit Five Oaks Riding Stables

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Five Oaks Riding Stables?

They're open daily from 9 AM to 6:30 PM, though hours can vary by season. We always recommend calling ahead or booking online since they run scheduled rides throughout the day rather than continuous departures.

How much does Five Oaks Riding Stables cost?

The standard 3.5-mile trail ride costs $54.99 per person for ages 6 and up. Kids ages 3-5 can ride double with an adult for $24.99. They also offer a zipline and horseback combo for $99.99.

Do I need reservations for Five Oaks Riding Stables?

Yes, and this is actually one of their biggest advantages. Unlike many other stables that are first-come, first-served, Five Oaks takes reservations so you don't have to wait around hoping for an opening.