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** IS A FABULOUS HORSE FARM IN YOUR FUTURE?**
If you love horses and horse country, you will love a special place I know of near Asheville, North Carolina.
I guess it's no secret that just under an hour's easy drive from Asheville, in Polk County, you will find some of the best land for equestrian pursuits imaginable.
And almost everything you might need for those pursuits awaits you. Just look at this list I've alphabetized for you...
APPAREL - ENGLISH/WESTERN
BLACKSMITH/FARRIERS
BREEDING
DRIVING HORSES/LESSONS
EQUINE ACUPUNCTURE/ ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
EQUINE DENTISTRY
EQUESTRIAN ORGANIZATIONS
EQUESTRIAN SCHOLARSHIPS
EVENTING
FARM/ANIMAL SUPPLIES 
ARM EQUIPMENT
FEED SUPPLIES/FEED MILL/SHAVINGS
GROOMING
HORSE BOARDING FACILITIES
HORSE SALES
HORSESITTING/HORSE CARE
HORSE TRAINING - DRESSAGE
HORSE TRAINING - HUNTER/JUMPER/EQUITATION
HORSE TRAINING - FIELD HUNTER/FOX HUNTER
HORSE TRAILERS
INSTRUCTION
JUMPS - CROSS COUNTRY/STADIUM
PASTURE MAINTENANCE
TACK/SADDLE REPAIR
TRAILER SALES
TRANSPORTATION HORSE HAULING LOCAL/LONG DISTANCE
VETERINARY CARE
Amazing, eh? No wonder horse lovers love our neck of the woods... Of course, horse lovers are not the only ones who love the Western North Carolina foothills. Small towns, historic sites, fine art and craft, scenic vistas, and friendly attract visitors who end up staying! Noteworthy people such as: F Scott Fitzgerald, (who lived and wrote in Asheville, NC,) Ernest "Papa" Hemingway , and David Niven recognized the special allure of this area and were regular guests.
A Few Interesting Facts 
About This Equestrian Dream Area:
Located in the central Blue Ridge Mountains and foothills, the area is known for its mild climate due to the "isothermal belt."
Of this gift of nature, W. N. Hutt, one-time horticulturist for the State of North Carolina wrote:
"Practical men who make their living from Mother Earth in fruits, vegetables, grains or other products are close observers of nature and her laws. They may not always be able to correctly interpret her ways and define her laws, but if they have observed any phenomenon and formulated any practice from it you may be pretty sure there is something in it, and you will be unwise if you disregard it without investigation."
Mr. Hurt described the thermal belt as being similar to "a will-o'-the-wisp, which always seemed to elude his grasp, but he did draw the conclusion that thermal belts are a reality and that North Carolina seems to have a monopoly on them..."
Polk County was formed in 1855 and named in honor of Colonel William Polk . The courthouse. is almost as old as Polk County, itself. I wonder what the old-timers would say if they heard that Polk County was recently named as one of the Top 10 Rural Areas to Live in the U.S.A.
Three municipalities, historic Saluda, Tryon, and Columbus, and six townships make up the heart of the 234 miles of rural Polk County. I cover stories about all of these in my BLOG. Like the noteworthy individuals I mentioned, I happen to LOVE it here!
Does this look like a place where YOU belong?
Maybe a look at just one incredible horse farm you could call Home would help you decide...So...with that in mind, I've scattered a few photos throughout this post to let you see what horse country in North Carolina might offer you....Maybe you will find a horse farm that could make your dreams come true.
HOW ABOUT... Panoramic Mountain Views, Rolling Acres a Private Lake, State Road Access,
Ample Pasture, 3-Board Fencing, a 6-Stall Barn, a large, Equipment Building...and just over 5 minutes to schools?
HOW ABOUT... Being near the famous Lake Lure?
HOW ABOUT...An incredible Equestrian Estate, nestled in the isothermal belt, just waiting for the "right" stewards with many possibilities: It could be an exceptional private estate, family farm, or seasonal retreat. To your delight, as an eco-developer, who also wants to create an equestrian haven, this property can be divided. But wait...I haven't finished!
HOW ABOUT...A custom built, hilltop, Lodge Style home that offers phenomenal mountain views over your own private lake and rolling pasture...Huge log beams, tongue & groove wood, vaulted ceilings, rustic wood walls, knotty pine, and hardwood floors greet you. The hand milled interior doors are custom built of solid cherry. Stunning exterior stonework from local stone of the Pacolet River basin.
If this is the kind of life you have been waiting for...wait no longer.
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janeAnne, Did you follow me this weekend? I had company in town and we went to Polk county and rode back through Lake Lure. Both are Absolutely gorgeous!!!!
Thanks for the beautiful Blog,
Leslie
JaneAnne...you just gave me inspiration on how to structure my Localism Blogs!
Thanks
Leslie~
THIS is one area that my "equi-clients" love...and so do I. Here are some of the finest horse farms I have ever seen. There is a conservation development in this area where 20 AC parcels are set out for folks who appreciate the 2,000 acres the parcels border. The larger portion is set aside in a conservation trust where trail riding enthusiasts can ride the trails. There are streams and open spaces for healthy pastures....what a gentle use of this once burdened land. GLAD you got to "feel" it, Leslie!
Joan-Joni~
I like the idea of sharing my "eyes" on a neighborhood or a locality...or on the culture of the place. That is something of real value (in my opinion) that real estate professionals have to offer our clients. THANK YOU so much for your comment.
Hi janeAnne - BEAUTIFUL post!! Love all the info you included in this post, and those pictures are gorgeous!
I've spent many a summer month in Mountain Home - my family has had a cottage there for multiple generations. I may head there at some point this summer - love visiting Asheville.
Ann
Ann~
Thank you. I think that this land, with all its history and gentle/strong spirit can inspire greatness in all of us...when we take time to be IN it...That's one of the reasons I am so attracted to equestrian pursuits.
And when you are here this summer, let's talk about it in person.
Judi~
Next time you're planning to be in the area, please let me know. I know where the waterfalls are, too!
Sally~
Love this area. I would love to see your area through the eyes of a horse=)...with your commentary and photos. I bet it would be something! THX so much for your comments and kind words.
Jeff~
Come on down and "set a spell,,," if you love nature ,horseback-riding and equestrian pursuits PLUS all kinds of amenities for the horse enthusiast, this is the place for you...Look for another post on the subject of amenities...soon...
jane Anne,
Another terrific illustration of the land you love so much. You transport me there with your vivid descriptions and exquisite photos!
Ginger
Jeff~ North Carolina just "makes sense" =)
Judi~The Biltmore Estate is not to be missed. Many beautiful riding trails can be found there,too. For equestrians who love trail riding, it is a special find.
Susan~
Good to hear from you. The next time you are over this way, I'll show ya' some incredible horse properties.
Hi janeAnne - I included this post in this week's Localism Week in Review. Beautifully done!!
Ann
Ann~
It was a real charm to find this post on Localism Week in Review! Possibly happens when we love what we do... and love to talk about it!
Chrystina~ Glad you liked the photos. They can give folks a sense of place and equestrian life, don't you think?
Ginger~
As a person who loves nature and animals, you are one person who would LOVE it here in the mountains....that is if you could tear yourself away from the beautiful scenery I see in your photos here at AR!
Judi~
As I read your BLOG, I am sure that you would appreciate what's happening in the way of green/sustainable construction here in the Mountains of North Carolina. Yes! Be sure to let me know if/when you visit!
Joan~
When you wrote, "...you really made this entire area come to life..." it made my day! That's what I am trying to achieve and I really, really appreciate your comment. it keeps me goin' in that direction.
Sally and Steph! ~
Thank you so much for your concern. I have written both of you. I am back and ready to stir up some energy around-here. Are you??
Lysa~
It is quite something you know when Florida equestrians move to NC...they are, in the beginning, often concerned about how their horses will do in the hilly to mountainous terrain. Many choose the areas to the south of Asheville (as per the post)...but I have had some who tell me their horses have never been more fit than when they ride the steep trails to the north of Asheville!
PS..that goes for bikers, too =)
Rebecca~ Thanks!
Ann H.~Now riding directing into the mountains on fabulous trails...that sounds great...and of course, we can attest to the joy of that experience!
Michele,the Artist-Photographer~
May I say the same for you? It just seems that a real estate professional with an "eye" has a special way to share the vision of what can be with clients!
Desiree~
The weather has cooled off and the rains have made the grass happy.It's a good time for trail riding.
Cameron~
You and your family may love the idea of a trail-riding by horseback vacation. Right near me here in Asheville this equestrian facility might interest you... I have been here myself and can speak to the truth about this in their ad...
"Fresh mountain air, breath-taking scenery and an old fashioned down-home friendliness greet you ...We are located on a secluded ranch minutes north of Asheville, North Carolina that has been in the family for three generations. Our picturesque trails pass through the high country, scenic mountain meadows and wooded areas. ...Our rides are perfect for people of all ages and horseback riding abilities. We ride all ages, have no weight limits, and are flexible to meet your needs.
A few other places you might find of interest:
Other places to contact for vacation trail riding with your own horse:
Biltmore Saddle and Bridle
P.O. Box 15072
Asheville, NC 28813 (704) 274-6943
(704) 274-3757
Cane Creek Park
Union County Parks
5213 Harkey Rd.
Waxhaw, NC 28173
(704) 843-3919
Cedar Rock County Parks & Recreation Dept.
217 College St.
Graham, N.C. 27253
(910) 570-6760
Double D Equestrian Center
733 Egypt Church Road
Louisburg, NC
(919) 496-6564
http://www.doubledequestrian.com/
Doughton Park
District Ranger
49800 Blue Ridge Parkway
Laurel Springs, N.C. 28644
(910) 372-8568
Goldmine Trails
Wood, NC
(919) 853-0184
Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center
6601 Devil's Racetrack Rd.
Four Oaks, N.C. 27524
Ph: (919)938-0115
Latta Plantation Park
Rt. 3, Box 882
Huntersville, N.C. 28078
(704) 875-1391
(704) 875-0808
Leatherwood Mountains
512 Meadow Road
Ferguson, N.C. 28624
(336) 973-8392
(877) 736-8686
http://www.goleatherwood.com/
Love Valley
Love Valley, NC 28677
(704) 592-2024
Old College Farm Trail
504 South Dekalb St
Shelby, NC 28150
(704) 484-1731
Sauratown Trails
Rt. 1, Box 527
Pinnacle, N.C. 27143
Springmaid Mountain
Rt.3, Box 376
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
(704) 765-2353
Springmaid Mountain
Rt.3, Box 376
Spruce Pine, NC 28777
(704) 765-2353
Tanglewood Park
P.O. Box 1040
Clemmons, N.C. 27012
(910) 766-9540
(910) 766-0591
Triple JJJ Farms
1308 Durwood Evans Road
Beulaville, NC 28518
(910) 289-0889
(910) 285-4469
Happy Trails to YOU!