Amidst South Carolina's verdant landscapes lies the Buncombe Horse Trail, a meandering path that winds through picturesque forested hills and valleys. This trail beckons horse enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and vibrant natural beauty.
Trail Highlights
As riders traverse the Buncombe Horse Trail, they encounter a tapestry of historical markers and natural wonders. The journey unveils old cemeteries, remnants of wagon roads, and vestiges of plantation sites that speak of a bygone era. The trail's diverse ecosystem provides glimpses of abundant wildlife and flourishing plant life, creating an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. With a network of interconnecting loops, riders can tailor their adventure, opting for various exhilarating rides through this captivating terrain.
Year-round Adventure with Safety in Mind
While Buncombe Horse Trail welcomes visitors throughout the year, safety remains paramount, especially during big-game hunting seasons. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it's advised to wear blaze orange attire during specific periods, including April, September, and December. This precautionary measure ensures visibility and safety in wooded areas during hunting seasons.
Primitive Camping and Permits
For those seeking an authentic wilderness experience, primitive camping is permitted along the trail. However, it's essential to obtain a dispersed camping permit beforehand, ensuring compliance with regulations while relishing the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
Riding Experience
The trail's terrain varies, offering an eclectic mix of unsurfaced paths, gravel stretches, and piedmont clay tracks. The time required to traverse the trail depends on the chosen route, ranging from leisurely two-hour rides to more extensive five-hour journeys.
An Invitation to Equestrian Adventure
Embrace the call of Buncombe Horse Trail, where the echoes of history harmonize with the whispers of nature. Explore the undulating landscapes, discover hidden remnants of the past, and forge unforgettable equestrian adventures amidst South Carolina's captivating wilderness. Whether you're an experienced rider or a novice enthusiast, Buncombe Horse Trail promises an immersive journey through nature's exquisite bounty.
Directions:
In Newberry County, from I-26, take exit #60 (SC 66), and drive east for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 358 and drive .2 miles. Buncombe Trailhead parking area is on the left-hand side.
Buncombe Horse Trail offers the following facilities and amenities:
- Vault toilet
- Equestrian trails
Cost Details:
- A day-use fee of $3 a day or $25 for an annual pass for the trailhead per vehicle or vehicle with a trailer.
Notes:
- Primitive camping along the trail is allowed, but a primitive camping permit is required. Contact Enoree District Office at 803-276-4810 for further information.
- The trails are open year-round, but care should be taken in the woods during the big-game season. WEAR BLAZE ORANGE during April, and September-December.
- Closed to all Off-Highway Vehicles.
- If you do not wish to purchase the day-use pass in advance this location is also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once on-site, follow the posted instructions.
- Cell phone connectivity in the forest may be limited, plan ahead.
- Please have the Recreation.gov app downloaded prior to arrival. Once purchased please write down the confirmation number on the provided envelope and post on the vehicle dashboard.
- This pass does not guarantee parking availability. For your safety, please remember that parking outside of designated areas is discouraged and visitors who park illegally may be fined and towed. This pass is valid until 11:59 PM of the date listed on the pass, and only for the date and vehicle specified for this pass.
- America the Beautiful Passes: Senior, Access, Military, Gold Star, Veteran, and Golden Age Senior/Access are accepted at this site. These passes cover fees for the pass holder and up to three adults per vehicle.
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
SUMTER NATIONAL FOREST - Buncombe Trail
Buncombe Horse Trail does not require reservations for overnight accommodations. Please visit their page here on Top Horse Trails - Buncombe Horse Trail for more information.