rice pond bordering the Ashley River. On Old South Carriage HORSIN’ AROUND Co. ’s Historic Charleston Carriage Tour, take in the sights along more than 2.5 miles and 30 blocks of historic downtown while learning about the grand mansions, blooming gardens, notable landmarks Home to first-class polo, horse racing, historic stables and the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum , South Carolina is an authentic and timeless equestrian community rich in charm and tradition. Saddle up for riding and spectating all throughout the state. and breathtaking architectural styles spanning centuries. RIDE THROUGH FORESTS Bring your own horse for a unique opportunity to ride the natural terrain of Hitchcock Woods in Aiken. With 70 miles of sandy trails, this has been a haven for pedestrian and equestrian users since the early 1800s. At Lawton Stables , go on a guided horseback ride on Hilton Head Island. You’ll meander beneath canopies of palmettos and moss-covered oaks, and along scenic trails in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. RIDE ON THE BEACH At Inlet Point Plantation in North Myrtle Beach, rent a horse for one-hour oceanfront riding on quiet Waites Island for peaceful waterway trails. Or bring your own horse to some of South Carolina’s state parks, such as Myrtle Beach State Park and Hunting Island State Park , for seasonal riding on the beach. RIDE LIKE A PRO Book a horsemanship lesson at Black Horse Run in Fountain Inn to learn practical skills and Western-style riding. If you’re looking to take your technique and riding ability to the next level, take hunter or jumper lessons at Emerald Leaf Stables in Greenville. Photos (left to right) Aiken; Myrtle Beach State Park, Myrtle Beach; Charleston; Camden > RIDE THROUGH HISTORY At Middleton Place Equestrian Center in Charleston, take a one-hour guided, narrated horseback riding tour in the historic Plantation District. You’ll ride around the plantation’s scenic 32 DiscoverSouthCarolina.com
South Carolina Vacation Guide SC 2023: Page 32
