
Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve
Historic equestrian preserve in the Blue Ridge Mountains, famous for its charity horse shows and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Saddlebred Division action

Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve
Best Time
Saddlebred Division action
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic equestrian preserve in the Blue Ridge Mountains, famous for its charity horse shows and scenic trails.
"A great visit with friendly people and beautiful trails; we will certainly be back!"

🎟️ Book Show Tickets Early
General admission is $10 at the gate, but book private booths in advance for groups .
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially on the trails. Bring sturdy shoes!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show
Broyhill Equestrian Preserve Grounds
Witness top equestrian talent compete in a historic, scenic mountain setting. A must-see for horse lovers!

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park Trails
Adjacent to the Preserve
Explore miles of beautifully groomed carriage trails winding through picturesque mountain landscapes.

Wagon Rides
Cone Estate
Enjoy a leisurely wagon ride through the historic Cone estate, offering a unique perspective of the grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Horse Show Enthusiasts
Embrace the Mountain Air & Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Show Tickets Early
General admission is $10 at the gate, but book private booths in advance for groups.
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially on the trails. Bring sturdy shoes!
:camera_with_flash: Capture the Action
Bring your camera to photograph the impressive equestrian events and stunning mountain scenery.
:world_map: Explore the Trails
Don't miss the groomed trails of the Moses Cone estate for a peaceful ride or hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Show Tickets Early
General admission is $10 at the gate, but book private booths in advance for groups.
:athletic_shoe: Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially on the trails. Bring sturdy shoes!
:camera_with_flash: Capture the Action
Bring your camera to photograph the impressive equestrian events and stunning mountain scenery.
:world_map: Explore the Trails
Don't miss the groomed trails of the Moses Cone estate for a peaceful ride or hike.
:star: Friendly Atmosphere
Visitors often praise the welcoming nature of staff and competitors, even offering box seats.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve for its stunning mountain setting and the excitement of the annual horse show. The well-maintained trails of the Moses Cone estate are a major highlight, offering beautiful scenery for riding and hiking. The friendly atmosphere and helpful staff, particularly noted during unexpected issues, contribute to a memorable experience.
"We couldn't be happier with our visit. We had truck troubles on our way in and Ms. Marti jumped right in. In less than 5 minutes, she had found a volunteer to get our trailer and horses and take them to the barn. Late check-in, help to get our horses settled in, again no problem for Ms. Marti. Took a wagon ride through the beautiful Cone estate, and everyone was friendly and pleasant. This has been a great visit, and I am certain we will be back.
Tina and Gary"
Gary Sessoms
"We camped there a couple weeks ago, had a great time driving our team on the Moses Cone state park trail system!
Marti is great to deal with
We will be back!"
Enos Zook
"Saw this event on line and us being horse people we had to see what's it is all about. First thing was they were very friendly since we was from Ft Worth Texas letting us sit in a box seat. Had a 4 yr old riding was so much fun to watch. A rider lost a shoe and they all stoped to let a shoe get put back on right in the arena to let be at the horses best to compete. I will be back when I am around this event. Thanks for all the event mang. Did for us to have a great time."
Rick Mock
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The preserve is located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. It's accessible by car, with GPS navigation recommended. Parking is available on-site, especially during show events. For those arriving with trailers, specific arrangements might be needed, as one visitor experienced truck troubles and received immediate assistance.
Public transportation options directly to the preserve are limited. It's best to drive or arrange for private transport. The scenic mountain location makes driving the most practical way to access the area.
Blowing Rock is in the mountains, so roads can be winding. During winter months, check road conditions for potential snow or ice. During the summer show season, expect increased traffic around the preserve.
Yes, the preserve is designed for equestrian use. If you're attending a show, you'll need to arrange for stabling. For trail riding, ensure your horse is healthy and you have appropriate permits if required for the Moses Cone trails.
Yes, Blowing Rock is a popular tourist town with a variety of hotels, inns, and vacation rentals. Booking well in advance is advised, especially during major events like the horse show.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission tickets are typically $10 at the gate for the horse show. Prices can vary slightly year to year, so it's always good to check the official event website closer to the date. Private group booths are also available for inquiry.
While general admission is available at the gate, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular divisions or if you're part of a group looking for specific seating or booth arrangements. This helps avoid potential sell-outs or long queues.
The Moses Cone Memorial Park trails are generally accessible during daylight hours. The equestrian preserve itself may have specific hours for stabling and facilities, which are best confirmed directly with the management, especially if you plan to bring your own horses.
Information on group discounts or child admission prices is not widely publicized. It's advisable to contact the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show organizers directly to inquire about any available discounts for larger parties or younger attendees.
Dogs are generally allowed on the grounds, especially for trail riding, but must be kept on a leash. Some social media posts show dogs enjoying the atmosphere, though it's always wise to check specific event rules regarding pets in spectator areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond the main equestrian events, the preserve offers access to the beautiful Moses H. Cone Memorial Park trails, perfect for horseback riding, hiking, or enjoying a scenic wagon ride through the historic Cone estate. The mountain setting itself is a major draw.
For the horse show, smart casual attire is common. If you plan to explore the trails or grounds, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
Food and beverage vendors are typically available during the horse show events. For those exploring the trails, it's a good idea to pack your own snacks and water, especially for longer excursions.
While the natural terrain of the trails can be challenging, the main spectator areas and some facilities at the equestrian preserve are generally accessible. Specific accessibility details should be confirmed with event organizers.
The Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show is a historic event, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2024. It has a long-standing tradition in the equestrian community and is one of the most anticipated shows in the country.
📸 📸 Photography
The arena during competitions offers dynamic action shots. The scenic mountain backdrop provides stunning landscape opportunities. The historic Cone estate buildings and carriage trails also offer picturesque settings.
Yes, personal photography and videography are generally permitted for non-commercial use during the horse show. However, flash photography might be restricted during certain events to avoid startling the horses. Always be mindful of other spectators and event staff instructions.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended to capture close-ups of the horses and riders from the stands. A wider lens can be useful for capturing the overall atmosphere and scenic views of the preserve.
Drone usage is typically restricted at equestrian events and within national park areas like Moses Cone Memorial Park due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drone photography is not permitted unless explicitly authorized.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light for landscape and portrait photography. Midday can be harsh, but it's ideal for capturing the intense action in the arena.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐎 Avid Equestrians
🏞️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show
Beyond the thrill of competition, the show has a charitable aspect, contributing to various causes. The venue itself, the Broyhill Equestrian Preserve, is a significant part of the experience. Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers a breathtaking backdrop for the events. Many participants and spectators return year after year, drawn by the unique combination of high-level equestrian sport, the charm of Blowing Rock, and the camaraderie of the horse community. The event's longevity is a testament to its enduring appeal and importance in the equestrian calendar.
Exploring the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park Trails
Visitors can experience these trails in various ways. Horseback riding is a popular activity, with many bringing their own horses to explore the scenic routes. For those without horses, wagon rides offer a more leisurely way to soak in the landscape and learn about the history of the Cone estate. The trails vary in difficulty, with some offering gentle gradients and others presenting more challenging ascents and descents, catering to a range of fitness levels. The cooler mountain temperatures, especially in late July, make these trails particularly enjoyable for outdoor activities.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture: An Unexpected Connection?
This trend, while seemingly unrelated to equestrianism, points to a broader appreciation for vintage and classic items. The Broyhill Brasilia collection, known for its distinctive design, is a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts. The fact that the preserve shares the 'Broyhill' name, even if indirectly related to the furniture brand, has led to some interesting online discussions and content creation. It's a unique intersection of interests, demonstrating how different passions can sometimes converge in unexpected ways, even if just through a shared name.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit