Hunts in/near Charlotte NC

[FlyHaff]

New to the area, so not yet familiar! I’ve heard of several hunts but need advice as follows:
-Proximity to Charlotte/ Weddington (not more than 2 hour drive)
-Most inviting, as in welcoming to new members/guests
-Inviting terrain for a new hunt horse (trail ridden lots and in small groups but not yet in a field. Will want to hilltop
/hound walk/pace before actual hunt)

• Late getting in, so planning to spend this first season as a volunteer and/or social member.

I’ve searched but not found what I’m looking for apologies if this is answered elsewhere; please direct me.
I’ve also looked on the MFH site but it seems some of the hunts are short on info I need.
This is a preliminary inquiry; of course I know to contact the appropriate Masters when the time comes.
Thanks all in advance!

*eventer, avid trail rider, paced (solo and in teams) - just have a new partner now ???

[moukoyui]

This will be my first year with the Mecklenburg Hounds and I couldn’t ask for a better welcome, care, or training. I am 1st/ 2nd Field with my one horse and the slowest Hill Topper with my other. They have taken fanstatic care to make everyone feel welcome. They hunt along the NC/ SC line, I am based on the edge of Waxhaw and Weddington and I rarely drive over 20 minutes to a fixture.

They are about to start Cubbing and very active/ responsive on FB. If you PM me I can put in contact with the Masters, or to speak more candidly about the type of riding and people. I cannot say enough good things.

[GotMyPony]

There are also 2 Hunts in the Tryon area: Tryon Hounds (celebrating 90th anniversary this year) and Green Creek Hounds. Both have websites.

As a side note, since you like riding across country, also in the Tryon area is the biggest Hunter Pace Series in the country. Running from September through May every year, the Western Carolina Hunter Pace Series is now almost 30 years old. It includes somewhere between 15-18 events each year. Two divisions, Field Hunter and Trail Rider, and always ways around the jumps. Rides typically run from 6-12 miles and often get more than 100 riders. People come from across NC, SC, even from Virginia, Tennessee and Georgia. Many rides on private property that otherwise isn’t available for riding.

Website is www.wchpace.org - in case you’re looking for other trail/field riding opportunities.

[SLW]

My first fox hunt in 1970 was with the Tryon Hounds. You’ve been given good advice! Good luck!

[crosscreeksh]

I second Mecklenburg Hounds !! It’s been a long time since we lived in NC, but always had fun there.

[jawa]

http://www.mfha.com/hunts-map.html

Happy Hunting