Big Rock Dude Ranch
Looking for horseback riding in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge? Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa is the Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge area's premier horseback riding and outdoor adventure destination. Located just a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, enjoy horse back riding in the Smoky Mountains year round (weather permitting) seven days a week from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm.
If you are looking for an escape from the usual tourist traps, a family outing the kids won't
forget, a group or reunion activity, or just a chance to try horseback riding in the Smoky
Mountains, Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa is the place to go. Our Smoky Mountain outdoor
activities let you travel back in time and experience the Smokies as the early settlers did 200
years ago as they crossed the mountains on horseback seeing these mountains and valleys for the very
first time.
Enjoy relaxing outdoor family activities such as fishing in our stocked fishing
pond, mining for gems at our gem mine, and visiting the animals at our petting zoo. Our shaded
picnic area is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a snack or meal from Chow-Boys Cafe.sion is to
give guests an experience that will last
a lifetime.
We have a free petting zoo. It's all here and it's free to all our guests. Here at the farm, we are surrounded by all of God's little critters! We have goats, ponys, rabbits, llamas, emus, chickens, ducks, peacocks, geese, and birds of all shapes and sizes. You can purchase a bag of feed at the General Store for $3.00. Turn the kids loose and let them enjoy our farm!
Our gem mining is full of all sorts of Geo's. Our flume is located beside the Little Cove Creek and
the Kids' Playground.
From Danny the Rock Man, our gems come from all parts of the world.
You may purchase a 3.5 pound bag of ore for $14.95, or get 2 bags for $22.95! If you're horseback
riding, look for our specials that are all designed to save you money.
Types of Geo's in each bag
Quartz Chrystal, Amethyst, Pyrite, Blue Calcite, Serpentine,
Septarian Agate, Rose Quartz,
Selenite, Jade, & Turquoise.
Our fishing pond is stocked with Blue Gill, Crappie, Catfish, & Bass, and is catch-and-release.
We supply the rod, reel, and bait. There are picnic tables and swings around the fishing pond, so
come out, relax, and enjoy the Smokies at their best!
Adults are $24.95, children 6 and under are $12.95. The fishing pass is valid for 3 days, so you can
come out each day and fish for a one-time cost. There is no fishing license required. You also get
your bait, bottled water, and a bag of animal food for the petting zoo.
