Western North Carolina is known for its exceptional outdoor activities. Whether you are looking to hike through the mountains or experience the energy of the nearby city of Asheville, our inn will be your home base for your adventures. One of our favorite places to explore is the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center. Here, you can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and horse shows!
About the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center
The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center, also known as FENCE, is a non-profit organization in Tryon, North Carolina. It’s located just 20 minutes away from Orchard Inn! Their goal is to be a resource to the community, preserve green space, and provide educational and recreational opportunities to the town and beyond. Whether you are looking for education during your vacation or a place to hike, FENCE has it all.
Over the years, the center has more than tripled in size. At its beginning in 1985, it was just 112 acres. Now, it spans more than 380 acres!
3 of the Best Things to Do at the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center
1. Take a Hike on the Nature Trails
The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center is an excellent place to immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy dense forest, blissful meadows, and beautiful wetlands during your adventure. There are six miles of trails for you to explore, and there’s even a paved portion for leisurely walks. Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially birds! You’ll love exploring the paths surrounded by towering trees as you listen to the birds chirping and leaves rustling in the wind.
2. Go Birdwatching
Birdwatching is another popular activity at the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center. Many visitors bring their binoculars on hikes through the trails here to see what birds they can find! If you are planning on birding at FENCE, print out their Birds at FENCE Brochure to check off each one you see. You might even find a rare species or two!
3. Visit the FENCE Equestrian Center
The FENCE Equestrian Center has an excellent reputation. Not only does the equestrian portion of this non-profit hold therapeutic riding sessions for riders with disabilities, but they also have boarding for up to 300 horses and an incredible riding program. Visitors are invited to come to spectate at any event, but the most popular time to visit is for the Block House Steeplechase. This event has happened every year since 1947 and continues to bring in crowds from all over the country!
Book Your Getaway Today
Are you planning a visit to Western North Carolina? From exploring the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center to attending fun events, you’ll never run out of things to do here. Let Orchard Inn be your home base for your mountain getaway! Choose from our beautiful suites, inn rooms, and cottages on our historic property. You’ll love waking up to a homemade breakfast each morning, and our amenities can’t be beaten. We can’t wait to host you!
