How to Get Started with Foxhunting in Georgia

Foxhunting may look like a sport reserved for highly experienced equestrians, but newcomers don't necessarily need to arrive with a horse, a red coat, or years of experience to begin exploring the tradition.

Georgia is home to several organized hunts, including Bear Creek Hounds in Moreland, where opportunities exist for riders and nonriders alike. If foxhunting has caught your interest, getting started begins with learning about the hunt, understanding its customs, and finding the right way to participate.

Start by Finding a Hunt

The first step is identifying an organized hunt near you and contacting the club before attending. Hunt clubs have their own schedules, visitor policies, and requirements, so don't simply show up on hunt day.

For Coweta County residents, Bear Creek Hounds provides an opportunity to experience the sport close to home. The Moreland-based club welcomes social members as well as riders, giving people different ways to become involved.

Newcomers can also look beyond Coweta County. Shakerag Hounds, originally founded as the Atlanta Hunt Club in 1943, is Georgia's oldest recognized foxhunt. Belle Meade Hunt, located in Thomson, was founded in 1966 and offers another opportunity to experience the sport.

You Don't Have to Start in the Saddle

One of the easiest ways to learn about foxhunting may be to experience a hunt without riding.

At Bear Creek Hounds, social members can attend hunts as car followers and participate in the meal and fellowship afterward. The club's annual Opening Hunt also welcomes members of the community, with nonriders able to follow the hunt aboard "tally ho" wagons.

Observing first gives newcomers a chance to become familiar with the pace, terminology, traditions, and etiquette surrounding a hunt before deciding whether they want to pursue riding.

Find the Right Riding Experience

For those ready to experience foxhunting on horseback, not every rider has to tackle the same terrain at the same speed.

Bear Creek Hounds organizes riders into three fields. First Field stays with the hounds and involves jumping obstacles. Second Field follows closely but does not jump. Third Field, also known as Hilltoppers, follows at a slower pace, making the hunt accessible to riders with different abilities.

Before participating, prospective riders should contact the hunt directly to learn about its riding requirements and determine which experience is appropriate for them.

Learn the Dress Code

Traditional attire is one of the most recognizable elements of foxhunting. Riders at Bear Creek can still be seen wearing the scarlet and black coats associated with the sport for centuries. The formal attire also serves as a sign of respect to the landowners whose property the hunt crosses.

But newcomers shouldn't guess about what to wear. Dress requirements can vary by hunt and occasion. Check with the host club before attending and ask what is expected of guests, social members, or riders.

Know the Rules Before You Go

Safety and etiquette are important when horses, hounds, riders, vehicles, and spectators are participating in the same event.

Before attending a hunt, review the individual club's visitor and safety guidelines. Ask where guests should meet, when to arrive, what to wear, where spectators are permitted, and anything else you need to know before hunt day.

A little preparation allows newcomers to concentrate on experiencing the event rather than wondering whether they're doing something wrong.

Where to Experience Foxhunting in Georgia

Bear Creek Hounds | Moreland
Coweta County's local hunt offers opportunities for riders, social members, and spectators. The club celebrates its 25th season in 2026.

Shakerag Hounds | Georgia
Founded as the Atlanta Hunt Club in 1943, Shakerag is the state's oldest recognized foxhunt and maintains an active membership and hunting tradition.

Belle Meade Hunt | Thomson
Founded in 1966 and formally recognized in 1970, Belle Meade Hunt offers another way to discover Georgia's foxhunting community.

Take the First Step

If foxhunting has piqued your curiosity, you don't have to commit to becoming a foxhunter to learn more. Start by contacting a hunt, asking about opportunities for newcomers and experiencing the tradition for yourself.

For Cowetans, that first introduction may be just down the road in Moreland.