Hughes Creek Preserve Area

The Hughes Creek property in Western North Carolina is often referred to as the Southern Foothills. This rolling land is one of generous horse farms against a backdrop of large, lush mountains. The mountains bring cool breezes in summer and the rolling hills create a thermal belt that limits freezing and allows for moderate winters and longer growing seasons. This tranquil countryside is punctuated by picturesque and historic little towns linked by a scenic highway and one of the most famous stretches of rail line in the United States. (Polk County’s Saluda Grade is the steepest mainline standard-gauge track in the nation.)

Since DeSoto first set foot in this region in 1540, the enormity of traversing up or down the mountains made the lands at their base a natural resting place for early traders, trappers and travelers. In the 18th century farmers and large planters began settling the area. By the mid-19th century, it was well on its way to becoming a popular summer resort for well-heeled easterners escaping the heat and malaria of the Low Country. When the railway to Asheville opened in 1878 and began passenger service in 1879, the number of Visitors increased dramatically. Bustling communities grew along the tracks. Landrum, Tryon and Saluda all came into their own, and all accommodated their guests and increasing residential populations with busy downtowns, lovely Victorian-style homes and resorts, and a lively society. Around 1928, the equestrian set formally moved into the area and added much to the elegant counts culture and the quiet, though stable, economy.

Though Passenger train service to the area stopped decades ago, the mountain town of Saluda and the towns of the Southern Foothills; Tryon, Landrum, and Columbus have maintained their dynamic social calendars and strong art scene and have preserved their historic downtown architecture.

Filled with fine shopping, galleries, restaurants and registered historic landmarks, these towns have collectively become known as The String of Pearls. The area's tradition of openness to newcomers, as well as its many amenities and natural beauty has nurtured the growth of a well-rounded population consisting of people who are born and raised here; artists, writers and craftspeople who find a supportive community here; equestrians who are tops in their fields; and people who have traveled the world and chosen this place among all others to settle.

The area continues to grow and develop, through an involved citizenry. Community groups and pro-active local governments have been successful at ensuring that growth adds to the community's current character and vision while respecting its natural resources and its past. Landrum and the other towns of Polk County are unique among places for their size, vitality and forward thinking. These are communities that make it easy to be involved and to live life fully.

Equestrian pursuits have more than a 50-year heritage in Tryon including steeplechase, dressage, hunter-jumper, and carriage-driving events. The Tryon Riding and Hunt Club, Carolina Carriage Club, FENCE (Foothills Equestrian Nature Center), and other equestrian organizations host events from March through early December. The Block House Steeplechase Races, held in April, have been an annual event for 54 years.  FETA (The Foothills Equestrian Trails Association), is dedicated to the preservation of the historic equestrian trail system in and around Hunting Country in Polk County, North Carolina. Becoming a member of this association will gain you access to miles of beautiful horse riding trails, in addition to the trails on Hughes Creek Preserve.

Horse pursuits have a long history in this country setting and continue to thrive due to the perfect terrain and climate for horse farms. It is convenient to Asheville, Hendersonville, Greenville, and Charlotte. Hughes Creek Preserve is waiting for You!!