Explore the Mountains on Horseback
RE-OPENING MARCH 1, 2025!
Come Ride with Us and Discover the Beauty of Lake Lure and Western NC!
ABOUT US
A Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Founded over 40 years ago, Riverside Riding Stables is more than just a business—it’s a family legacy built on a love for horses and the great outdoors. Owned and operated by Ricky and Arlene Jackson, the stables have become a cherished destination for both locals and tourists seeking unforgettable horseback adventures in the heart of Western North Carolina. Open daily from Tuesday thru Sunday, year-round, we’ve proudly served this community for decades.
But in September 2024, our story took an unexpected turn. When Hurricane Helene struck Western NC, it brought devastating floods that swept through our farm. Thankfully, we had moved our horses to higher ground—an instinctive precaution we’ve taken over the years, given our proximity to the river. However, upon returning home, Ricky and Arlene found their house and barns submerged under 12–15 feet of water.
What followed was both heartbreaking and inspiring. While we lost much of our personal belongings, riding equipment, and supplies, we were grateful to find the main barns and our home still standing. Determined to rebuild, we didn’t face this challenge alone.
An Outpouring of Support
Within days, family, friends, neighbors, and complete strangers rallied around us. From the local community in Lake Lure to supporters across North Carolina and the United States, help came in countless forms—supplies, food, riding gear, building materials, financial assistance, and labor. Their generosity not only restored our stables but also lifted our spirits.
A New Beginning
Christmas Eve marked a milestone as we spent our first night back in our home, surrounded by the love and determination that made it possible. And now, as we move into the New Year, we’re excited to re-open Riverside Riding Stables to the public—stronger and more resilient than ever.
We invite you to come ride with us, explore the beauty of Lake Lure, and experience the bond between horse and rider that has always been at the heart of our stables.
Re-opening March 1, 2025
TRAIL RIDES
TRAIL RIDES FOR EVERY RIDER
Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, our guided trail rides offer something for everyone. Enjoy the calming beauty of nature as our friendly guides lead you through peaceful trails, where you might catch glimpses of wildlife in action.
Length: 1 Hour
ADVENTURE AWAITS ON THE RIVER
Ready for something unforgettable? This ride is designed for adventurous riders ages 6 and up who are looking for a one-of-a-kind experience—horseback riding in the river!
Get ready to splash through the water and even swim with your horse as you explore the gentle curves and bends of the river. After leaving the water, the adventure continues with a scenic mountain trail leading to a breathtaking view of Bald Mountain, surrounded by stunning peaks and valleys.
As your ride circles back into the river, you’ll have time to relax, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the water.
Length: 2 Hours
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TESTIMONIALS
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. We visited in July, and experienced an absolutely wonderful ride and conversation with the group that runs this place. We made memories to last a lifetime. Thank you all so much! Praying you all and the horses are safe after Helene 🙏 ❤️
T. Ashley
Our entire family of 6 went there and had the best times of our lives. Youngest was 10 and oldest was 48. The guides weren’t too strict, were very knowledgeable and extremely friendly. We all loved talking during the ride to them. The price is unbelievable for what you get out of this. We would do it again a million times! Thanks for an amazing time! We will be back.
C. Martowska
My granddaughter and her best friend enjoyed their ride at Riverside. Folks at Riverside Stables were wonderful…girls were in first group of the day-this is a family run stable-before first ride of the day, everyone circled up for the family’s traditional morning prayer. The dad gave thanks for their blessings and asked for a safe day of trail riding. Great place in the Lake Lure area for riding…their stables are picturesque and you can tell their horses are well-loved and pampered!
M. Evans
MEET THE TEAM
PHOTO GALLERY
FAQS
When will you re-open?
We will re-open the stables on March 1, 2025! Just in time to explore springtime in the mountains!
How Long are the Trail Rides?
We offer both a 1-hour and a 2-hour ride.
What is the Rate for the Trail Rides?
Give us a call at 828-829-9251 to confirm availability and rates.
What are the Times for Trail Rides?
We are open daily Tuesday thru Sunday, starting March 1, 2025 from 9am-5pm. Our ride times vary based on group sizes for the given day, so give us a call at 828-829-9251 to check availability, ride times and rates.
Come Ride with Us!
