In the early days of the breed, the walking horse was established by farmers living around the Appalachian area in middle Tennessee where roads were difficult or non-existent, and were specifically prized for their ability to provide a comfortable ground covering ride over the local rocky, steep mountain terrain.  The farmers needed athletic, surefooted horses with stamina and smoothness as well as a significant focus on temperament.  These horses were utilised the by whole family, from youngest to oldest, and to this day retain the reputation of having trusting and very forgiving natures.

They are particulary famous for their glide ride and wonderful dispositions.  This smooth gaited and sensible greed is a popular choice for riding out on the trails, however they are very versatile and can be seen strutting thir stuff as performance or pleasure mounts in both English and Western classes.  They exhibit intermediate gaits between trot and canter that are naturally smooth, square 4-beat strides that covers the ground in a less tiring manner for either horse or rider. Most Tennessee Walkers do not display a trot at all, preferring instead their intermediate running walk.   These unique intermediate gaits have no period of suspension, they are very smooth to sit to and eat up the miles in a relaxed manner.  

Today, gaited breeds are becoming very popular and much more commonplace worldwide.  In America The Tennessee Walking Horse is the most popular breed of the gaited horses, they are 3rd overall, following the Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred for registration numbers.  

The secret many hill country horsemen have known for years with their preference for gaited mounts, is now making an impact with the rapidly growing numbers of the pleasure riding enthusiasts.