Discovering Horse Country: A Guide to Southern Pines, NC

Southern Pines, North Carolina, is widely known as one of the top equestrian destinations in the country. With miles of beautiful trails, top-notch facilities, and a rich equestrian history, it’s no wonder that horse lovers from all over the world flock to Southern Pines to indulge their passion. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Southern Pines such a special place for horses and riders, and what you need to know to experience it for yourself.

A Brief History of Equestrianism in Southern Pines

Equestrianism has been a part of Southern Pines’ culture since the town’s founding in the late 1800s. The town’s mild climate and beautiful natural surroundings made it an ideal location for horse breeding and training, and many wealthy families from the North flocked to Southern Pines to escape the harsh winters and indulge their love of horses.

Over the years, Southern Pines has become known as a hub of equestrian activity, with top trainers, riders, and breeders calling the town home. The town has also hosted a range of prestigious equestrian events, including the Carolina Horse Park’s annual War Horse Event Series and the Pinehurst Harness Track’s trotting races.

Horse Country Attractions

If you’re a horse lover, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Southern Pines. Here are just a few of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss:

Carolina Horse Park

The Carolina Horse Park is a 250-acre facility that hosts a range of equestrian events throughout the year. The park features four competition arenas, two schooling arenas, and over 80 permanent stalls, making it a top destination for riders and trainers from all over the world.

Walthour-Moss Foundation

The Walthour-Moss Foundation is a 4,000-acre nature preserve that is open to equestrians for trail riding and fox hunting. The preserve features over 20 miles of trails that wind through beautiful forests, fields, and wetlands, offering riders a chance to experience the natural beauty of Southern Pines up close.

Pinehurst Harness Track

The Pinehurst Harness Track is a historic facility that has been operating since the early 1900s. The track hosts trotting races throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience the thrill of harness racing and learn about the town’s rich equestrian history.

Horse Country Events

Southern Pines is home to a range of equestrian events throughout the year. Here are a few of the top events that you won’t want to miss:

War Horse Event Series

The War Horse Event Series is a series of equestrian competitions that takes place at the Carolina Horse Park throughout the year. The series features a range of events, including dressage, cross-country, and show jumping, and attracts top riders from all over the country.

Pinehurst Harness Track Races

The Pinehurst Harness Track hosts a range of trotting races throughout the year, offering visitors a chance to experience the excitement of harness racing up close. The track also hosts special events, such as theFourth of July fireworks display and the Holiday Lights event in December.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning a trip to Southern Pines to indulge your love of horses, you’ll want to choose accommodations that cater to equestrians. Here are a few of the top places to stay in Southern Pines:

The Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club

The Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club is a luxurious resort that caters to golfers and equestrians alike. The resort features a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and pool, as well as stables and riding trails.

The Carolina Hotel

The Carolina Hotel is a historic hotel located in nearby Pinehurst, North Carolina. The hotel features luxurious accommodations, as well as access to the Pinehurst Resort’s equestrian facilities.

The Knollwood House

The Knollwood House is a charming bed and breakfast located in Southern Pines. The inn features a range of equestrian-themed rooms and offers access to nearby riding trails.

Where to Eat

After a long day of riding and exploring, you’ll want to refuel with some delicious food. Here are a few of the top places to eat in Southern Pines:

Ashten’s

Ashten’s is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Southern Pines. The restaurant serves a range of delicious dishes, including steak, seafood, and pasta, and features a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Sly Fox Pub

The Sly Fox Pub is a British-style pub that serves a range of pub fare and craft beers. The pub features a cozy atmosphere and live music on the weekends.

Elliott’s on Linden

Elliott’s on Linden is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant features a range of delicious dishes, including seafood, steak, and vegetarian options.

Final Thoughts

Southern Pines, North Carolina, is a horse lover’s paradise. With its beautiful trails, top-notch facilities, and rich equestrian history, it’s no wonder that the town has become a top destination for riders and trainers from all over the world. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a horse lover looking to indulge your passion, Southern Pines is the perfect place to visit. So why wait? Plan your trip to horse country today and get ready to experience the thrill of riding in one of the most beautiful places in the country.

For more information about horse country in Southern Pines, including events, accommodations, and dining options, visit https://www.visitsouthernpines.com/horse-country/.