Moore County would be described by most equestrian enthusiasts as the ultimate horse heaven. Moore County is the mecca for horse lovers and a natural sanctuary for a myriad of equine passions. Typically mild climate under the breathtaking North Carolina beautiful blue skies paired with gentle rolling hills, evergreen groves and excellent sandy footing makes the terrain of the Sandhills perfect for horses. A full spectrum of equine activities awaits you; dressage, hunt trails, pleasure riding, jumping, driving, even foxhunting! You will surely find your counterparts here surrounded by a community of liked-minded individuals that share your passion for horses and horse sports. That is why Moore County horse farms are considered some of the finest equestrian communities in the entire United States! Equestrian champions know just how perfect the region is year round on man and beast that is why five Olympic equestrian champions live and train here. Moore County is also home to the Moore County Hounds who hunt on the Moss Foundation.

In the center of the horse community and the heart of it all lays the Walthour-Moss Foundation, with over 3500 acres devoted to Equestrian activities. The Walthour-Moss Foundation is one of the United States’ largest public equestrian areas and open to trail riders year round with no charge, with restrictions on riding only during the foxhunting season. The unspoiled and undeveloped long leaf pine forest is perhaps unique in the nation with miles and miles of enchanting trails through the woods, across streams, wooden bridges and soft sandy lanes providing access to riders and hikers alike. The majestic forest is also home to many threatened and rare species of wildlife, and a precious gem to our community.

Serving the vibrant horse community you will find an array of services; professional trainers, tack shops, barn and fence builders, veterinarians, feed shops and vendors for every equestrian need. You also have access to some of the most advanced veterinarian technology available through the Equine Health Center of Southern Pines, a local branch of the North Carolina State University College of Veterinarian Medicine.

Moore County Center for the North Carolina Extension Horse Husbandry conducts an ongoing 4-H youth and adult educational program through county extension agents and horse commodity groups. Active 4-H and adult educational programs are offered in 87 of 100 North Carolina counties. Check the NC Cooperative Extension Service Resource Page calendar for educational opportunities in your area.

Winter training for trotters and pacers is still a tradition at the Pinehurst Harness Track, which has been the winter home of champions since 1915. Friendly competition with the inaugural spring Pinehurst Matinee Harness Races still draw crowds and are met with much enthusiasm and appreciation by the Sandhills community. The Pinehurst Harness Track features various special events throughout the year including polo.

The Carolina Horse Park is less than 30 minutes away in neighboring Hoke County which hosts both national and international equestrian events, and houses facilities to accommodate at least five major branches of equestrian sports. A favorite rite of spring enjoyed by Sandhills residents is the Stoneybrook Steeplechase. Thousands of spectators have shown up for the thrilling hurdle races whether rain or shine for the past 56 years.

There are a variety of private residential horse communities and new horse communities are being developed in Carthage and Seven Lakes. Nestled between 2 sides of the Walthour-Moss Foundation you will find Tamarack Hill Farm hosting various schooling trials as well as horse shows and a variety of horse sporting events. They have an indoor arena, a jumping arena, a dressage arena, a complete cross county course and four barns with stabling for 27 horses. With a focus on old-fashioned values and traditions McLendon Hills is a 600-acre Lake and Equestrian Community where the properties are large and the activities are plentiful. McLendon Hills boasts of spectacular vistas, bridle trails and a modern 24 stall Equestrian Center which provides many opportunities for the equine enthusiast. Lending to the scenic beauty of the development are many forms of wildlife; quail, deer and wild turkeys that freely roam the property.

Moore County has been a thriving horse community for decades attracting horse owners and professionals from great distances and is to be considered one of the premier horse communities in the nation. So if horses are your passion, welcome to horse heaven!