Introduction

When you picture Elvis Presley, you probably think of glittering jumpsuits, hip-swivels, and stadium-rocking performances. But few know that behind the glitz, Elvis had a lifelong passion for horses. The story of Elvis Presley horses reveals a side of the King that’s quieter, more personal, and grounded in a love of the Western life. From palominos at the gates of Graceland to a full ranch in Mississippi, his equine world offers an intimate view into the man behind the legend.

How Elvis’s Horse Passion Began

Elvis’s interest in horses didn’t emerge overnight—it grew steadily, rooted in his desire for calm and escape from fame. According to those who knew him, he took solace in the barn and on horseback, far from the spotlight.

His journey as a horse owner began when he set out to buy a golden palomino. In the mid-1960s, he asked around for a palomino Quarter Horse and wound up purchasing one known as Rising Sun.Soon, his collection grew. He bought horses not just for himself but for friends, family and his entourage—part generosity, part indulgence. At one point, Elvis reportedly had around 18 horses at his Graceland estate.

Elvis found something genuine in the barn. As one observer described, while fans screamed for the stage, Elvis found silence on horseback, walking a horse to cool him down, caring for tack personally and riding through the pastures at dawn. When you look at Elvis Presley horses, you’re seeing a man seeking peace amidst chaos.

The Star of the Stable – Rising Sun & Other Notables

Among the many horses connected with Elvis, one stands out: the palomino Quarter Horse named Rising Sun. This horse became Elvis’s personal favorite and often appears in photographs of the singer riding at Graceland or on his Mississippi ranch.

According to articles, Elvis would ride Rising Sun for 15 minutes, then walk him for an hour just to ensure he was properly cooled down—testament to his dedication.The barn at Graceland still bears markings from Elvis himself—including tack-room hooks he labeled.

Other horses in Elvis’s stable included Bear, a Tennessee Walking Horse he adored; Ebony’s Double, the last horse he bought; and Mare Ingram, humorously named after the mayor of Memphis.Ebony’s Double lived to 32; Mare Ingram lived to 50. Elvis’s collection wasn’t just about status—it was about genuine care and long-term bonds. Stories of him strolling alongside his horse at dusk are still told by those who worked at the ranch.

Circle G Ranch & The Horsing Facilities

To say Elvis’s herd outgrew Graceland is an understatement. By 1967 he purchased a 163-acre cattle ranch just across the Mississippi state line—named the Circle G Ranch.The property gave him space, freedom and the Western lifestyle he craved.

Here, he maintained horses, cattle, and riding trails for his circle of friends and family. The ranch, set amid rolling hills and open land, became a sanctuary. In one interview, Priscilla Presley recalled how, after breakfast, they saddled up and rode through the hills at twilight—a simple ritual amidst a storm of fame.

The equestrian facilities were serious business. Elvis once bought trucks, trailers and saddles for his entire entourage simply so they could ride. “…Everybody would go, ‘E, bring the horse back…’ and he’d say, ‘No, he’s not ready.’”The Circle G and Graceland barns show how Elvis’s horse world wasn’t just accessory—it was integral to his lifestyle.

Horses at Graceland Today – Legacy & Preservation

Even decades after Elvis’s passing, the legacy of Elvis Presley horses lives on at his iconic estate, Graceland. On the grounds, horses continue to graze, serve as living symbols of the King’s quieter passions, and remind visitors of his authentic love for animals.

At one time, unfinished upkeep left several of his horses in poor condition. A trained show-horse professional pointed this out to Graceland management and helped restore the herd’s well-being.Today, the horses there receive top-tier care, reminiscent of how Elvis treated his mounts. They aren’t ridden publicly but serve as an important homage to his connection with equines.

Visiting Graceland, you’ll see markers and stables referencing favorites like Rising Sun or Ebony’s Double—turning what could be a side note into a meaningful element of the historic site. For fans of Elvis and horses alike, that legacy offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.

Conclusion

When we talk about Elvis Presley horses, we uncover more than a celebrity hobby—what emerges is a portrait of a man who found solace, identity and genuine joy in the saddle. From Rising Sun galloping past Graceland’s gates to the wide-open spaces of Circle G Ranch, horses grounded Elvis in authenticity and peace. Even now, their legacy persists, reminding us that beneath the jumpsuits and spotlight lived someone who cherished the simple rhythm of hoofbeats and open pasture.

FAQs

What was Elvis Presley’s favorite horse?
His favorite was the palomino Quarter Horse called Rising Sun, which he purchased in the 1960s and rode frequently.

How many horses did Elvis have?
At one time, Elvis reportedly had around 18 horses on his Graceland property alone.

Where was Elvis’s horse ranch located?
He bought the Circle G Ranch, a 163-acre cattle and horse ranch in Horn Lake, Mississippi, in 1967.

Are the horses still at Graceland today?
Yes. Graceland maintains a small herd of horses on the grounds as a tribute to Elvis’s passion for equines.

Did Elvis ride his horses himself?
Absolutely—Elvis rode often, cared deeply for his horses, and even performed maintenance in the tack room himself.