Location: Burnsville, North Carolina, United States
Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center is a nonprofit equine-assisted services program in Burnsville, North Carolina, that provides therapeutic horseback riding and non-mounted equine activities for children and adults with physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. The organization has served the region for decades and operates in a structured setting focused on safe, individualized support.
About This Program
Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center offers therapeutic horseback riding along with non-mounted individualized programs. Its services are designed to support participants through equine-assisted activities that can help with physical development, confidence, communication, and emotional well-being.
The program also works with groups through local school systems and adult day programming, while serving individual riders as well. In addition to regular lessons, ATRC offers summer camps, literacy programs, and a Silver Saddles program for adults over age 55.
Services Offered
- Therapeutic horseback riding
- Non-mounted equine activities
- Summer camps
- Literacy programs
- Silver Saddles program for older adults
- School-based equine programs
- Adult day program participation
Who They Serve
Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center may be a good fit for:
- Children with physical challenges
- Adults with physical challenges
- Individuals with cognitive challenges
- Individuals with emotional challenges
- Older adults seeking strength, flexibility, and social connection
- Students participating in school-based equine programs
- Adults in day program settings
Facility and Setting
Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center operates in Burnsville, North Carolina, on a property in the South Toe Valley. The facility includes a large indoor arena, classroom, office, therapy room, bathrooms, indoor horse stalls, an outdoor riding ring, and run-in shelters.
- Burnsville, North Carolina location
- Large indoor arena
- Outdoor riding ring
- Classroom and therapy room
- Indoor horse stalls
- Run-in shelters
- Year-round riding environment
What Makes Them Unique
Appalachian Therapeutic Riding Center stands out for combining therapeutic horseback riding with non-mounted equine programming, school partnerships, literacy support, summer camps, and senior-focused programming. That mix gives the organization a broader reach than a standard riding-only program.
The program also has a long history, with public sources tracing its founding to 1986, and it serves both individuals and community groups through a structured nonprofit model.