Airports Nearby

The Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC), located in Mill Spring, North Carolina, is a world-class equestrian venue nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers a variety of activities and amenities suitable for both equestrian enthusiasts and visitors who enjoy outdoor experiences. The center features 10 riding arenas, more than 850 permanent stalls, and a covered riding facility, alongside various lodging options, including camping.

While the TIEC is well known for its equestrian events, it also provides many recreational activities for all visitors. You can explore scenic trails, including the White Oak Cross-Country Course, or relax by visiting one of the many dining spots, enjoying live music, or shopping at local boutiques. If you’re interested in fitness, the resort also has a full-service gym, CrossFit Wide Open, and pickleball courts​

If you want to explore more outdoor adventures, TIEC’s surroundings offer breathtaking views and numerous natural attractions like hiking spots, waterfalls, and nearby state parks​

Lake Lure:

· Enjoy water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or relaxing by the lakefront.

· Visit Rumbling Bald Resort for golf, mini-golf, and ziplining​

· Explore Boulderline Zip or Canopy Ridge Farm for thrilling zipline experiences

Lake Junaluska:

· Ideal for tranquil lakeside walks and birdwatching​

Horseback Riding:

· Cedar Creek Stables and Riverside Riding Stables near Lake Lure provide trail rides, some including swimming with horses​

Hiking and Scenic Spots:

· Chimney Rock State Park offers stunning views and well-maintained trails.

· Catawba Falls near Old Fort is great for waterfall hikes​

North Carolina Zoo (Asheboro): Home to over 1,700 animals with engaging exhibits​

Kid-Friendly Spots in Hendersonville: Apple orchards, Jump Off Rock, and Burntshirt Vineyards​

Chimney Rock Village: A pedestrian-friendly village with art galleries and unique shops nestled near Chimney Rock Park.

Nantahala National Forest: Featuring trails, waterfalls, and picturesque towns like Sylva and Dillsboro. Don't miss Upper Whitewater Falls or the charming Dillsboro Chocolate Factory.

These destinations offer diverse experiences, from thrilling outdoor adventures to relaxing cultural and culinary exploration. 

Cataloochee Ski Area - Located in Maggie Valley, NC, about 1 hour and 40 minutes west of Golden Creek. Cataloochee is known for its reliable snowmaking and offers 18 slopes and trails suitable for all skill levels, as well as lessons and snow tubing.

Sugar Mountain Resort - Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes north, near Banner Elk, NC. This resort features 21 slopes, night skiing, snow tubing, and an ice-skating rink. It’s a great spot for both beginners and experienced skiers.

Beech Mountain Resort – 1 hour and 30 minutes north in Beech Mountain, NC, this resort offers 17 trails, a terrain park, night skiing, tubing, and scenic views as the highest ski resort in the eastern U.S.

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort - A family-friendly resort with a "small mountain vibe" just a short hour and a half drive from Golden Creek. We offer diverse terrain with slopes and amenities for all level of skiers and snowboarders. With top of the mountain town homes and a family friendly tube run we are a premiere winter destination.

Appalachian Ski Mountain - The base lodge is located an hour and twenty minutes from Golden Creek covers 46,000 square feet, is smoke free, and has complimentary WIFI in the restaurant. With twelve slopes including two terrain parks serviced by one double chairlift, two quad chairlifts, two conveyor lifts (new in 2010) and one handle-pull lift.

Chimney Rock State Park (30 minutes): Famous for its dramatic views from Chimney Rock and several hiking trails. Trails include Hickory Nut Falls Trail, leading to one of the highest waterfalls in the region​

Grandfather Mountain (1 hour 30 minutes): Features the mile-high swinging bridge, a variety of hiking trails, and stunning panoramic views. Trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs, like the Grandfather Trail​

South Mountains State Park (1 hour 15 minutes): Known for the High Shoals Falls Loop Trail, a 2.7-mile hike with views of an 80-foot waterfall. Offers horseback riding and mountain biking trails​

Gorges State Park (1 hour 15 minutes): Features waterfall hikes to Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Hidden Falls. Ideal for day-long explorations​

Lake Lure (30 minutes): Popular for paddleboarding, kayaking, and scenic boat tours. Offers beaches and Rumbling Bald Resort for outdoor fun​

Lake James State Park (1 hour): Perfect for swimming, fishing, and canoeing with beautiful mountain views​

Parks and Natural Areas

Blue Ridge Parkway (accessible within 1 hour): A scenic drive with access to numerous hiking trails, overlooks, and picnic spots​

Crowders Mountain State Park (1 hour 45 minutes): Offers challenging hikes with rewarding views of the Charlotte skyline​

Cleghorn Golf and Sports Club - Located in Rutherfordton, this course is part of the Tryon Resort and features a scenic 18-hole, par-71 course designed by George Cobb, known for its challenging layout and well-maintained greens. It also offers a sports club, dining options, and event hosting capabilities​.

Meadowbrook Golf Club - A family-owned course in Rutherfordton, it offers an affordable golf experience in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It features a relaxed atmosphere, 18 holes, and has been a local favorite since 1963. The course provides opportunities for both casual and competitive play​

​Dogwood Valley Golf Course - This is another option for golfers in the area, known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. The course offers a quieter setting, ideal for enjoying a day on the greens​

Each course provides unique features suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned golfers.