Nestled in the foothills of North Carolina, Tryon International Equestrian Center (TIEC) is a prime destination for riders, spectators, and equestrian enthusiasts alike. As one of the top equestrian centers in the country, TIEC hosts world-class competitions across multiple disciplines, from hunter jumper and dressage to eventing and vaulting. Whether you’re competing, spectating, or simply exploring all that TIEC has to offer, this guide will help you make the most of your experience at this equestrian hub.
Where is Tryon International Equestrian Center?
Tryon International Equestrian Center is located in Mill Spring, North Carolina, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While its scenic, secluded location adds to its charm, TIEC is conveniently close to Charlotte, Asheville, and Greenville, making it easy to explore the Carolinas during your visit.
Driving directions, as well as a venue map and a self-guided walking tour, are available on the Tryon International website.
What is TIEC?
Tryon International Equestrian Center is a riding facility, event venue, and 1,400-acre resort for those who embrace an active lifestyle with horses. From March to December, the center hosts top-tier equestrian competitions, attracting Olympic-level riders and spectators from across the nation. Beyond the showgrounds, TIEC offers a luxury resort experience with breathtaking mountain views, boutique shopping, live music, and dining, along with activities like line dancing, wine tastings, and sports for visitors of all interests year-round.
For over a century, Tryon has been a hub for equestrian life. The region’s deep-rooted equestrian culture began with the founding of the Tryon Riding and Hunt Club in 1925, which helped shape Western North Carolina’s interest in horse riding. That legacy continued with the opening of Tryon Resort in 2014, featuring Tryon International Equestrian Center as the main attraction. Since then, it’s quickly become a go-to destination for prestigious equestrian events, further establishing Tryon’s reputation as an equestrian center of the Southeast.
Annual Tryon Equestrian Center events
From the season opener in March to the holiday festivities in December, Tryon International Equestrian Center always schedules a packed calendar of events for everyone. Throughout the years, TIEC has hosted prestigious organizations and championships, including the IEA Finals, IHSA National Finals, NCEA SEC Championships, USEF Premier/Level 6 hunter jumper competitions, and the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games. While many of these events rotate locations each year, TIEC’s annual competitions continue to attract top riders in dressage, para dressage, hunters, show jumping, equitation, eventing, vaulting, driving, and more.
Here’s a look at the events that take place at Tryon International Equestrian Center each year.
1. Saturday Night Lights
Experience the thrill of high-level show jumping under the lights at Tryon Stadium, featuring a Grand Prix class. Saturday Night Lights is held May through October with free family activities like pony rides, face painting, and live music, making this event perfect for all ages.
2. Tryon Hunter Jumper Series
TIEC hosts four hunter jumper series, starting with the Welcome Series in March, a four-week National/Level 3 competition. The Spring, Summer, and Fall Series follow, each offering six weeks of hunter jumper competition, ranging from Regional/Level 3 to National/Level 6 and CSI 2* to CSI 5* levels.
3. Tryon Dressage & Para Dressage
TIEC hosts a series of dressage and para dressage competitions from spring through fall, including the Magnolia in the Mountains Sport Horse Classic and multiple National and FEI-level events. Riders compete in Tryon Spring, Summer, and Fall Dressage, wrapping up the year with Tryon Fall Dressage 3, which features CDI, CPEDI, and National-level classes.
4. Tryon International Three-Day Event
The Tryon International Three-Day Event is a premier eventing competition featuring CCI 1*-S to CCI 4*-L levels. Over three days in May, riders compete in challenging dressage, show jumping, and cross-country phases.
5. The Fork at Tryon International
This September eventing competition offers levels from Novice to Advanced, drawing top riders for dressage, show jumping, and cross-country. A highlight for eventing enthusiasts, The Fork is a must-see for its challenging courses and elite competition.
6. Tryon Vaulting Competition
Vaulting combines gymnastics and horseback riding, featuring individual, pairs, and team divisions. Tryon has also hosted the USEF/EVUSA National Vaulting Championships, showcasing athleticism, balance, and artistry in this unique equestrian sport.
7. Katydid CDE at TIEC
A three-phase combined driving event, Katydid CDE features dressage, marathon, and cones competitions at USEF National and FEI CAI 1* through 3* levels. Teams of horses and carriages navigate obstacles in this high-skill driving event.
8. WCRA & PBR Rodeo Events
Rodeo fans can catch top bull riding and rodeo action with the World Champions Rodeo Alliance (WCRA) and Professional Bull Riders (PBR). PBR Tryon in June and Rodeo Carolina in the fall bring adrenaline-fueled excitement to TIEC.
9. American Hobby Horse Series
The American Hobby Horse Series is fun and lighthearted, with riders competing on hobby horses, jumping obstacles with speed and accuracy. Held right before Saturday Night Lights in July and October, this free event is perfect for the whole family.
10. Winterfest
Over the holidays, Winterfest brings the magic of the season to TIEC, offering a drive-through light show, carriage rides, and ice skating. Plus, browse unique Christmas gifts from local artisans and the shops on Vendor Row.
Learn more: 10 Top Equestrian Events You Need to Experience
Visiting Tryon Equestrian Center
Whether you’re visiting as a competitor or a spectator, Tryon International Equestrian Center offers an exceptional experience with top-tier lodging, dining, and entertainment. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your stay.
Where to stay
Tryon Resort offers several excellent lodging options right on-site. Stay in a luxurious hotel room at the Overmountain Lodge and Conference Center, where mountain views and upscale amenities create a relaxing retreat. If you need more space, choose a one-, three-, or five-bedroom cabin, each featuring a kitchen, living room, and laundry—perfect for families or groups.
For those traveling with horses, the Stable House Inn is just a one-minute drive from the showgrounds. If you’re bringing a living quarters horse trailer, TIEC’s RV pads offer 30/50 amp hookups, water, sewer, and access to showers, laundry, and a lounge at the Lodging Center.
Where to eat
With eight dining options, plus the open-air Silo Bar, TIEC has something for every craving:
-
Legends Grille: Seasonal, chef-inspired cuisine.
-
Campagna Italian Cuisine: Classic pasta dishes, salads, and wood-fired pizzas.
-
Blue Ginger Sushi: Fresh, locally sourced sushi.
-
Roger’s Diner: Southern-style breakfast, burgers, and sandwiches.
-
Jennifer’s Creamery: A summer favorite for ice cream and quick bites.
-
The General Store & Pony Express Deli: Groceries, coffee, and grab-and-go meals.
-
Taco Mundo: Fresh Mexican favorites, from tacos to burritos.
-
Mulligans at Cleghorn: Clubhouse-style eats, including wings, wraps, and burgers.
Trail riding
Explore the stunning Blue Ridge foothills on horseback with Tryon Western Adventures. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, guided trail rides are available Thursday through Sunday for $95 per rider. For $25 extra, enjoy a wine tasting at Overmountain Vineyards after your ride.
Things to do
Beyond world-class equestrian events, TIEC offers entertainment for everyone:
-
Live music & festivals: Catch live music, take line dancing lessons, or attend the Earl Scruggs Music Festival for an unforgettable bluegrass experience.
-
Sports & recreation: Play a round at the Cleghorn Golf & Sports Club or head to the Silver Spoon Saloon for bowling, axe throwing, sports simulators, pickleball, darts, and more.
-
Shopping & relaxation: Browse boutiques for riding gear, designer apparel, and gifts, or schedule a spa treatment.
With so much to explore, TIEC is more than an equestrian venue—it’s a destination.
Bringing your horse to TIEC
Traveling with a horse requires additional planning—securing a stall, gathering paperwork, and ensuring proper care. Here’s what you need to know to make your trip to TIEC as smooth as possible.
Stabling
TIEC offers top-tier stabling with 1,400 permanent stalls across seven barns and bedding available to order. Each 12x12 stall features sliding doors, rubber mats, windows, halter and water bucket hooks, and fans for warm-weather comfort. The barns are designed for easy access, allowing you to safely unload your horse by the aisles. Stalls are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to book early.
Required paperwork
To enter the facility, all horses must have:
-
A negative Coggins test within the past year
-
Proof for EHV-1 and EHV-4 vaccinations within six months
-
A 30-day interstate health certificate for out-of-state horses
Training facilities
TIEC ensures horses stay competition-ready with top-notch training areas. The barns connect directly to bridle paths leading to warm-up rings, ensuring smooth transitions from stabling to training. Competitors also have access to a covered arena from 7 AM to 7 PM March through November, which provides a weather-proof space for daily schooling.
Competing at Tryon Equestrian Center
Show ring nerves are inevitable, but knowing what to expect and looking professional can boost your confidence. Here’s what you should know about the facility, the environment, and what to pack to help you compete at your best.
The arena
TIEC features 13 all-weather competition rings with dedicated warm-up areas and shaded rest areas. The Indoor Complex adds two additional competition arenas, a warm-up area, and seating for 3,000 spectators. With world-class, well-maintained footing and a thoughtfully designed layout, TIEC provides an exciting stage for riders of all levels.
The Glades
For a scenic escape between rounds, the Glades at TIEC offer miles of private grassy trails exclusively for competitors and their horses. Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM February through October, the Glades are the perfect way to decompress—whether for a group hack or a relaxing cool-down.
What to expect
At TIEC, competition days typically last from 8 AM to 5 PM. Between rounds, you and your horse can cool off under shaded rest areas with fans right outside the competition ring. Your supporters will be cheering you on from the raised viewing platforms surrounding the ring.
TIEC is dedicated to setting competitors up for success—the friendly staff is always happy to help if you need something.
What to wear
Tryon’s weather is typically warm, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring and fall mornings can be chilly, but temperatures rise throughout the day, so layering is key. Opt for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that provide sun protection and allow for unrestricted movement.
Learn more: The Ultimate Guide to Equestrian Apparel for Hot Weather
Stay comfortable and competition-ready with R.J. Classics show gear. Show shirts with sun protection, quick-dry breeches, and breathable show coats keep you cool and confident under pressure, while lightweight sweaters and vests keep you warm until you enter the ring. Explore our full men’s, women’s, and girls’ collections to find the perfect show outfit for TIEC.
You might also like: