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Trail Riding Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Trail Guides work as a team in providing the highest possible levels of care for the horses and ... with riding for extended periods of time. 2. Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach overhead and ...

Radiation Oncologist

Afton, TN · On-site

$175.75/hr

Recreational venues offer six golf courses, four city, county and state parks, a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, as well as campsites, fishing ...

$100K - $130K/yr

Gauley River - World-famous Class V+ whitewater rafting Greenbrier River - kayaking, tubing, and fishing Greenbrier River Trail - 78 miles of biking, hiking, and horseback riding Snowshoe, Canaan ...

Trail Riding information

What is trail riding?

Trail riding is a recreational activity where individuals ride horses along designated trails, typically through forests, mountains, fields, or other natural landscapes. It is enjoyed by people of all skill levels and can involve short rides or multi-day excursions. Trail riding offers the opportunity to connect with nature, improve horsemanship skills, and enjoy the companionship of horses in a relaxed, scenic environment. Safety, respect for nature, and proper horse care are essential components of trail riding.

What is the difference between Trail Riding vs Horseback Riding?

AspectTrail RidingHorseback Riding
CertificationsOptional; experience recommendedOptional; experience recommended
Work EnvironmentOutdoor trails, natural settingsVaries; outdoor or indoor arenas
Industry UsageRecreational, tourism, equestrian sportsRecreational, competitive, therapeutic

Trail Riding specifically involves riding horses on outdoor trails and natural terrains, often for recreation or tourism. Horseback Riding is a broader term that includes various riding styles, including trail riding, arena riding, and competitive disciplines. While both require basic riding skills, trail riding emphasizes outdoor experience and navigation, whereas horseback riding can encompass a wider range of activities and environments.

What are some common challenges faced by trail riding guides, and how can they be addressed?

Trail riding guides often encounter challenges such as managing groups with varying riding abilities, ensuring safety on uneven terrain, and handling unexpected situations like spooked horses or sudden weather changes. To address these, guides should conduct thorough pre-ride briefings, match horses to riders' experience levels, and maintain strong communication throughout the ride. Developing quick problem-solving skills and staying calm under pressure are crucial, as is having proper first aid and emergency training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trail Riding Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trail Riding Guide, you need strong horsemanship, knowledge of trail safety, and often certifications in first aid or equine management. Familiarity with GPS devices, equestrian tack, and communication radios is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and leadership are crucial soft skills for guiding riders and handling unexpected situations. These skills ensure the safety, enjoyment, and confidence of both riders and horses during trail excursions.
What are popular job titles related to Trail Riding jobs in Tennessee? For Trail Riding jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Trail Riding job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Equestrian Trail Guide I - Flex

Part-time

Posted 21 hours ago


Biltmore Estate rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 26 rated museums


Job description

Job Description

Flex: A position working an average of 20-29 hours per week (between 1000 - 1559 hours/year).

Trail Guides work as a team in providing the highest possible levels of care for the horses and create world class equestrian experiences for guests. Duties include: general care, feeding and watering for the trail horses; daily cleaning and maintenance of the feedlot, catch corral and mounting corral; cleaning and maintenance for saddles and tack for the trail rides program; and assisting the farrier and vets in providing horse health care as needed. Additional duties may also include fence, pasture and trail maintenance as needed. The incumbent will also be expected to provide general assistance and support for the department, leadership, and company.

Schedule may vary, but hours are generally 7:45am - 6:15pm Friday - Monday. Weekend availability required.

Requirements:

1. High school diploma (or GED). Additional education, training, and/or certification(s) related to the equestrian field preferred.
2. At least one (1) years of related equestrian experience. The ideal candidate will have two (2) years of experience in leading trail rides and working with riders of all experience levels.
3. Should be knowledgeable in equestrian care and be able to anticipate, identify, and troubleshoot health issues.
4. Demonstrated commitment to the delivery of world class internal and external guest service.
5. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills; must be comfortable in and effective at communicating clearly with guests, vendors, and other audiences.
6. Must be able to quickly acquire knowledge of the history of the estate and the Asheville area.
7. Ability to be proactive and take initiative; should be able exercise good judgment in anticipating and addressing issues.
8. Excellent planning, organizational, and time management skills are a must. Should be able to prioritize work and adjust as necessary.
9. Applicants must have or be able to obtain First Aid, AED and CPR certification.
10. Must have a valid driver's license, clean driving record and be at least 18 years of age.

Physical Requirements:

1. Must be able to lift 60 lbs. constantly and be able to endure long days of lifting, walking and physical exertion involved with riding for extended periods of time.
2. Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, reach overhead and below.
3. Must be able to have the range of motion necessary to safely saddle, mount, and ride horses.
4. Ability to work outside in all types of weather with fluctuations in temperature and conditions.

Essential Job Duties:

1. Select and catch appropriate horses to work each day.
2. Carefully inspect each and every horse daily looking for any signs of soreness, lameness or other health concern. Seek professional advice as required.
3. Prepare mounts and lead trail rides for guests according to daily schedule.
4. Inspect trail on a regular basis looking for any potential hazards, e.g. poor drainage causing wash outs or erosion holes, blow-down limbs, trash, etc. Correct immediately if possible or report situation to Director of Outdoor Programs.
5. Check in with the ticket host prior to each scheduled ride and warmly greet guests as they arrive.
6. Clean saddles and tack as needed.
7. Always maintain a level of preparedness in order to respond to any unforeseen emergency, either on the trail or at the barn.
8. Remove manure and debris from mounting corral, feedlot and around the barn as needed throughout the day.
9. Feed and water trail horses according to daily schedule.
10. Complete incident reports as needed, review with supervisor and send to Human Resources.
11. Support the Carriage Program staff to help in keeping all the guest areas as clean and inviting as possible.


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