Foothills Equestrian Nature Center (FENCE) is a nonprofit community organization located in Tryon, North Carolina, dedicated to preserving green space while providing educational, recreational, equestrian, and therapeutic opportunities that connect nature, animals, and people. Established in 1984, FENCE has grown into a 384-acre nature and equestrian center that serves thousands of visitors each year through outdoor recreation, environmental education, equestrian events, and therapeutic riding programs.
The organization is widely recognized throughout the Southeast for its extensive equestrian facilities, nature programs, and commitment to accessibility. In addition to hosting horse shows and educational activities, FENCE operates TROT (Therapeutic Riding of Tryon), a program that teaches horsemanship skills to children and adults with physical, developmental, and cognitive challenges in a supportive environment.
About This Program
FENCE offers a unique combination of equestrian, therapeutic, educational, and outdoor recreation programs. Through its TROT therapeutic riding program, participants experience the physical, emotional, and social benefits of working with horses while developing confidence, balance, coordination, and horsemanship skills. The organization also provides nature education programs, camps, hiking opportunities, and community events that encourage engagement with the natural environment.
The center’s mission focuses on preserving open space while creating opportunities for learning, recreation, and personal growth. Programs are designed to serve individuals of all ages and abilities, fostering connections between people, horses, and nature through meaningful experiences.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic riding through TROT (Therapeutic Riding of Tryon)
- Adaptive horsemanship instruction
- Equine-assisted activities
- Nature education programs
- Environmental education field trips
- Summer camps
- Community recreation programs
- Horse shows and equestrian competitions
- Cross-country riding opportunities
- Hunter/jumper events
- Dressage competitions
- Carriage driving events
- Hiking and nature trails
- Volunteer opportunities
- Educational workshops and community events
- Equine-assisted senior engagement programs (EASE)
Who They Serve
Foothills Equestrian Nature Center may be good for:
- Children
- Teens
- Adults
- Seniors
- Individuals with physical disabilities
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with cognitive challenges
- Riders seeking therapeutic riding opportunities
- Horse enthusiasts
- Nature enthusiasts
- Families seeking outdoor recreation
- Students participating in environmental education programs
- Community groups and organizations
- Competitive equestrians
- Individuals seeking accessible recreational activities
Facility and Setting
FENCE is situated on approximately 384 acres of protected land in Tryon, North Carolina. The property includes hardwood forests, wetlands, meadows, educational facilities, hiking trails, and one of the Southeast’s most respected equestrian centers. A conservation easement protects the property, ensuring that it remains available for future generations.
The equestrian center features permanent stabling for more than 300 horses in eleven barns, three lighted show rings with all-weather footing, a covered arena, spectator seating, cross-country courses, and extensive riding facilities. The natural setting provides a peaceful environment that supports therapeutic riding, recreation, education, and equestrian competition.
What Makes Them Unique
FENCE stands out for its rare combination of therapeutic riding, environmental education, community recreation, and world-class equestrian facilities. Few organizations offer such a broad range of services while maintaining a strong commitment to land conservation, accessibility, and community engagement.
Another distinguishing feature is the TROT program, which provides therapeutic riding opportunities for individuals with physical, developmental, and cognitive challenges. Combined with the organization’s extensive volunteer network, nature programs, and nationally respected equestrian center, FENCE creates a uniquely inclusive environment where participants can benefit from both horses and nature.