Carriages, Horses, and Rafts

"Many of these same forest trails were used by the Vanderbilts," says Ed George, an interpreter with the estate's carriage rides. He speaks above the wagon's wheel squeaks and the jingle of the Belgian horses' tack. We roll through a pine plantation, into an oak grove, and finally onto a ridge facing Biltmore House's west facade.

Guided outdoor trips through the estate showcase the trails and breathtaking views otherwise missed on a normal visit to Biltmore. Climb atop a horse, and clop down the trails. Hop on a raft, and ease down the 3-mile section of the French Broad, Asheville's largest river, which runs through a portion of the property.

Left: Carriage rides follow a few of the same trails the Vanderbilts used almost 120 years ago.

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