This Tennessee Farm Lets You Ride Horses Through 150 Acres Of Beautiful Countryside

A cascading mountain spring hides somewhere on this property, and you can reach it on horseback. That alone had me hooked.

Then I learned every single ride here is private.

No strangers in your group. No long nose-to-tail line of tourists.

Just you, your people, a well-matched horse, and 150 acres of rolling fields and woods.

The trails pass creeks, open meadows, caves, and ridges with wide views. Your guide also shares stories about the land’s history along the way.

I’d probably spend half the ride asking questions and the other half staring at the hills.

This working horse farm sits in the quiet countryside of Middle Tennessee. Chickens wander, friendly dogs say hello, and the horses each have their own personalities.

Your Ride Belongs To You And Nobody Else

Group trail rides can feel like a slow parade. At Spirit Valley, every horseback experience is private and reserved only for you and your group.

That one detail changes the whole mood. Nobody rushes you, and nobody slows you down either.

The farm sits on 150 acres of Middle Tennessee countryside. Rides wind through fields and woods at a pace that actually fits the people in the saddle.

Couples can ride side by side without a crowd. Families can keep the pace easy for younger kids.

Friends can chat freely the whole way.

Spirit is one of the owners and regularly leads private horseback experiences, but visitors should confirm her availability when booking.

Private rides also mean the guide can focus on you. Nervous riders get extra support, while confident riders can enjoy more of the trail.

It’s a smart pick for birthdays, anniversaries, or gift experiences. A ride here feels more like a visit than a booking.

Plan ahead, since private sessions need reservations. Pick your group, choose your ride, and get ready for some quiet time in the saddle.

Creeks, Caves, And Ridges Make Every Turn Worth It

Some trails show you one field and call it a day. Here, the route can include creeks, open fields, wooded trails, and scenic ridges, all on one property.

That variety keeps your eyes busy. One moment you’re crossing quiet meadows, and the next you’re heading into shady woods.

The ridges offer panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. Rolling hills stretch out in every direction, which is a pretty great reward for sitting still on a horse.

Water plays a big part, too. Creeks run through the land, and a cascading mountain spring and waterfall add a calm, peaceful backdrop.

Caves are a fun surprise for many riders. Kids especially tend to love anything that feels like a real adventure map.

Tennessee is famous for its hilly, layered landscape. This farm gives you a close-up look without needing a long hike.

Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for comfort. Sturdy boots with a small heel work best in the stirrups.

Bring a light layer, since woods can feel cooler than open fields. Then just enjoy the scenery changing around every bend.

Pick A Gentle Wander Or An Advanced Two-Hour Adventure

Beginners and seasoned riders want very different things. Thankfully, Spirit Valley offers rides for both.

Newer riders can start with a relaxed guided trail ride. The pace stays comfortable, and the guide helps with the basics before you head out.

Riders who already know their way around a saddle can try the advanced two-hour trail ride. It covers more ground and leads toward those big ridge views.

Spirit matches each rider to a horse with a fitting personality. That careful pairing helps everyone feel safer and more confident.

Rusty riders are welcome, too. If it’s been years since you rode, a calm horse and a patient guide can make the return feel easy.

Be honest about your skill level when booking. It helps the farm choose the right horse and the right route for your group.

Two hours sounds long, but time moves quickly out on the land. Still, eat a good breakfast and bring water for after the ride.

Not sure which option fits? Start shorter, then come back for the longer ride once you feel ready.

Willie, Pistol, And Maverick Are Ready To Meet You

Every barn has its stars. At this farm, names like Willie, Pistol, and Maverick come up again and again.

Willie has a reputation as a big, easygoing gentle giant. Pistol has helped younger riders during lessons, and Maverick heads out on trail rides too.

Each horse has a distinct personality. That’s part of the fun, and it’s also why matching horse and rider matters so much.

The horses are well cared for and well trained. A steady, mannerly horse can turn a nervous first ride into a happy one.

Kids often bond fast with their horse. Don’t be surprised if your little rider asks to visit their new buddy again next weekend.

You can’t always pick a specific horse, of course. Spirit decides based on size, skill, and comfort, which is honestly the right call.

Still, it’s fun to ask about the horses before you ride. Learning their quirks makes the trail feel like time with a friend.

A quick tip: follow your guide’s instructions around the horses. Calm movements and a soft voice go a long way with big animals.

Lessons Teach More Than How To Stay In The Saddle

Riding is only half the story. Private riding lessons at Spirit Valley also cover groundwork, like grooming and tacking up a horse.

That hands-on approach builds real confidence. When you understand how to care for a horse, riding feels much less mysterious.

Lessons work for kids and adults. Children who’ve never touched a horse can start slowly and warm up at their own speed.

Spirit adjusts her teaching to each student’s skill level. Some riders come once, while others return for ongoing lessons and keep improving.

Dreaming of owning a horse someday? Lessons here offer a practical peek at the daily care and attention horses need.

Parents can watch progress happen fast. A kid who’s shy at the start may be patting the horse proudly by the end.

Private lessons also make great gifts. A lesson certificate beats another toy that ends up under the bed.

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dusty. A stable is a working space, and a little dirt comes with the territory.

Ask questions during the lesson, too. Curiosity is basically the best riding tool you can bring.

Local History Rides Along With You

Good stories make a trail even better. Your guide shares history about the land and the surrounding area as you ride.

That adds a whole new layer to the scenery. Fields and ridges feel different once you know a little about who came before.

Spirit is known for her deep knowledge of the property. You’ll likely learn things you’d never spot on your own.

History fans will enjoy this part the most. Still, even kids tend to perk up when a story is tied to a real place right in front of them.

DeKalb County, where Dowelltown sits, has deep rural roots in Tennessee. The land has seen plenty of change over the generations.

Feel free to ask questions during the ride. A private tour means the conversation can go wherever your curiosity leads.

It’s a nice balance of activity and learning. You get fresh air and a little brain food at the same time.

So listen closely between those creek crossings. The trail might teach you more than you expected from a horseback ride.

Free-Roaming Chickens And Happy Dogs Run The Welcome Committee

Arrivals here come with a furry greeting. The farm’s friendly dogs, including a sweet pup named Archie, often say hello first.

Chickens roam freely around the property, too. Horses rest in their pen with acres of countryside stretching behind them.

It feels like a real working farm, because it is one. That everyday charm is a big part of the appeal.

Kids usually love this part before the ride even starts. Animal lovers of every age will find plenty to smile at.

The stables are clean and well kept. You can tell the owners put a lot of care into the space and their animals.

A quick reminder for families: ask before petting any animal. Farm animals are friendly, but good manners matter.

Leave your own pets at home unless the farm says otherwise. It keeps things calm for the horses and the resident critters.

Give yourself a few extra minutes before your ride. Saying hi to the dogs is basically an unofficial part of the visit.

Stay Overnight And Wake Up Next To Grazing Horses

Morning coffee hits differently with horses grazing nearby. Spirit Valley also offers a farm stay listed on vacation rental sites.

Guests can explore the property’s walking trails. One path leads toward the creek and that cascading mountain spring.

I could easily spend a whole morning wandering out there. Quiet trails and running water make a pretty solid start to any day.

Staying overnight lets you slow down. You can ride in the morning, rest a bit, and still enjoy the land in the evening.

It’s a great option for couples or small groups traveling from farther away. Many riders drive a couple of hours to get here.

Check the listing for details on space and amenities before booking. Availability can change with the seasons.

Pair your stay with a private ride for the full experience. It turns a day trip into a real countryside getaway.

Bring a book, comfy shoes, and maybe a camera. Tennessee sunsets over the hills tend to show off.

Plan Your Trip Into The Quiet Hills Of DeKalb County

Getting there is part of the charm. Spirit Valley sits at 150 Farwell Rd, Dowelltown, TN 37059, in the rolling countryside of Middle Tennessee.

Dowelltown is a small community in DeKalb County. It’s an easy drive from Smithville and roughly an hour or so from the Nashville area.

The farm operates daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. Rides and lessons are by reservation, so book before you head out.

Arrive a little early. It gives you time to meet your horse, get comfortable, and maybe say hello to the dogs.

Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray in warmer months. Closed-toe shoes are a must around horses.

Spirit also takes photos during many rides. Ask about it, since she’s known for lovely photography that you can share afterward.

Nearby Center Hill Lake is great for extending your trip. Edgar Evins State Park is close by for more outdoor time.

Mix a private ride with a lake visit, and you’ve got a full day. Not a bad way to spend a Tennessee weekend, right?