Ride the Trails, Explore the Chihuahuan Desert – Big Bend Awaits!
Saddle up and experience the thrill of the open desert with our Texas Horseback Trail Riding tours in the Big Bend country! We specialize in creating unforgettable adventures, guiding you through the rugged beauty of Big Bend country. Whether you're a first-time rider or a seasoned cowboy, our well-trained horses and expert guides ensure a safe, exciting journey. Come for the ride, stay for the breathtaking views and memories that will last a lifetime!
Explore our activities
Big Bend Stables - Morning 2HR Old Mine Tour
This one is all about a gentle relaxing ride thru the desert magic of Big Bend. We will wind past the visible remnants of our mining legacy and abandoned adobe homes. Pioneering here was not for the faint of heart. Our trails wander along the edge of Big Bend National Park. Just enough up and down to be fun without being too scary.
Ages 6+
**If you are looking for a more rugged & adventurous, or have more riding experience, we think you would really enjoy our Lajitas Stables location (Adventurous & Rugged Trails)**
Big Bend Stables - 2hr Afternoon Old Mine Tour
Stroll by the remnants of the historic Study Butte Mercury Mine and traverse Rough Run Creek to experience the pioneering essence that once thrived in this region. As you ride along, you'll encounter the remnants of mining structures and the bustling buildings that formed the bustling community of Study Butte. Off in the distance, you can see the famous canyon walls of Santa Elena Canyon which lays inside the National Park. Throughout the ride, take in the sweeping vistas of Maverick Mountain, Indian Head, Willow Mountain, Bee Mountain, and the rich history that endures in this remarkable landscape.
6yrs & up
**If you are looking for a more rugged & adventurous, or have more riding experience, we think you would really enjoy our Lajitas Stables location (Adventurous & Rugged Trails)**
Big Bend Stables - Desert Sunset Ride
Saddle up and head into the panoramic Painted Desert created by the setting sun. The colors of the desert truly come to life on this very special ride! This is hands down the best ride for your Big Bend sunsets - you are facing the west looking out over the desert mountains as the sun goes down..... WOW! This is our most popular ride!!
- this trail is catered to beginners, older folks, and those with kids as young as 6.
Big Bend Stables - Half Day with Lunch
Combine our 2hr mine tour with our own Ocotillo Mesa trails, ending up at the Indian Head for lunch. Wait until you see what a wonderful meal we can pull out of a pair of saddlebags.
- this trail is catered to beginners, and those with kids as young as 8. These trails include elevation gain.
- If you are an adventurous beginner or are an experienced rider, check out our adventurous rides out of our Lajitas Stables!
Lajitas Stables - 3 Hour Ride
Take the high road! Climb up and onto the top of Contrabando Mesa. To the South, we look across to the ruggedly wild mountains of Old Mexico.
- this ride caters to those who consider themselves very adventurous and are seeking that mountain-top feeling! This ride is beginner friendly, but keep in mind we climb about 500 feet on this ride and will ride alongside the edge of the occasional cliff & canyon on a very sure-footed mount.
- If you are wanting a more relaxed ride, or are feeling nervous, check out our hourly rides out of Big Bend Stables!
Lajitas Stables - Saddle and Paddle Combo
**March 2025: DUE TO WATER LEVELS UPSTREAM, we are currently unable to offer Saddle/Paddles. We still have plenty of room on our 1/2 Day Rides and we'd love to have you! If you're still interested in a river trip, PLEASE contact a river company separately as there are still parts of the river that are paddle-able downstream!**
For the adventurous!! This is an athletic activity.
- Our route climbs high into the rugged mountains and mesas that frame the Rio Grande, and the spectacular vistas into Mexico make this an unforgettable ride. Our famous saddlebag lunch (smoked meat, imported cheeses & crackers, fresh fruit, and other goodies) is served in the shade of a hidden canyon. After lunch we wind our way back down the Mesa, enjoying more dramatic views across the Rio Grande.
- When we return to Lajitas Stables, you'll have time to change from jeans and boots to shorts and sandals, before your river guide arrives to shuttle you to the river’s edge. Depending on the water level in the Rio Grande, you will board rafts or canoes for the second half of your all day adventure.
Lajitas Stables - Half Day with Lunch
Climb to the top of Contrabando Mesa on an adventurous horseback ride, and enjoy breathtaking views all around, before dropping down into "Lunchbox Canyon" for a lovely picnic we pull out of our saddlebags.
- all of our rides are walking, nose-to-tail trail rides.
- we ride horses, donkeys & mules!
- this ride caters to those who consider themselves very adventurous and are seeking that mountain-top feeling! This ride is beginner friendly, but keep in mind we climb about 500 feet on this ride and will ride alongside the edge of the occasional cliff & canyon on a very sure-footed mount.
Lajitas Stables- All Day Ride
Looking for an all-day excursion in the saddle? A chance to explore deeper into the vastness of Big Bend Ranch Ranch State park? This trip is made for you! With no set itinerary or specific trails, this ride offers the freedom to ride cross country.
-offered September - April
-this ride is most comfortable for those who have previous riding experience or currently ride. We can design an all day that is more suited to beginners if requested.
Lajitas Stables - Rios Ranch Multi-Day
Camp out under the stars with us on a multi-day excursion; a one-of-a-kind ride offered nowhere else in Texas!
Exciting, rugged, steep, adventurous trails for the adventurous!
Since we utilize base camps for these excursions, your personal gear and effects will be delivered to camp before the end of first day riding. While at camp, we do not necessarily "camp or sleep" within the historical structures; we will be 'TENT' camping. At the end of your trip, your personal gear and effects will also be delivered back to the stables and your vehicle.
Participants MUST bring their own sleeping gear. Tents are provided on our camping trips, though many folks simply sleep out under the starry skies.
POST-TRIP TIPS:
On the last day you are done around 4pm. For safety concerns PLEASE do not plan to drive several hours after you leave the stables. We strongly recommend you to reserve accommodations in Terlingua/Alpine. If you want to get back early from the ride to get a head start on the road, we charge an additional $50-$150 for an early exit.
Lajitas Stables - Texas Combo (Overnight)
There is no more perfect way to be introduced to the many faces of the Big Bend than this lovely overnight trip. A day of riding through our desert mountains, a night spent camping under our dark skies looking at the stars, and then directly on to a gentle float on the Rio Grande River. Perfect! Just a little taste of some of the best activities we have to offer.
Since we utilize base camps for these excursions, your personal gear and effects will be delivered to camp before the end of first day riding. While at camp, we do not necessarily "camp or sleep" within the historical structures; we will be 'TENT' camping. At the end of your trip, your personal gear and effects will also be delivered back to the stables and your vehicle.
Participants MUST bring their own sleeping gear. Tents are provided on our camping trips, though many folks simply sleep out under the starry skies.
Why choose us?
Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Big Bend of TX, with our Texas Horseback Trail Riding tours! Our guided adventures offer a unique way to explore the stunning desert landscapes, far from the crowds and close to nature. Whether you're seeking a serene ride through rugged trails or a thrilling journey into Big Bend country, we cater to all skill levels with thorough safety protocols to provide an unforgettable adventure for you and yours!
Unforgettable Adventures
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Terlingua, TX, with guided horseback tours designed to showcase the raw beauty of Big Bend country. From desert trails to panoramic vistas, every ride is a feast for the senses.
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Terlingua, TX, with guided horseback tours designed to showcase the raw beauty of Big Bend country. From desert trails to panoramic vistas, every ride is a feast for the senses.
Authentic Memories
Saddle up and step into the spirit of the Old West! Our trail rides are more than just tours—they're immersive experiences that leave you with unforgettable stories and lasting connections to the land.
Saddle up and step into the spirit of the Old West! Our trail rides are more than just tours—they're immersive experiences that leave you with unforgettable stories and lasting connections to the land.
Tailored Experiences
Whether you're a seasoned rider or stepping into the saddle for the first time, our tours cater to every skill level. Our expert guides and gentle, well-trained horses ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone.
Whether you're a seasoned rider or stepping into the saddle for the first time, our tours cater to every skill level. Our expert guides and gentle, well-trained horses ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone.
Terlingua, Texas
Nestled in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, Terlingua, TX, is a hidden gem that blends rugged beauty with a rich Wild West history. Our tour company is proud to call this breathtaking region home, where towering mesas and endless desert skies create the perfect backdrop for adventure. Most people don’t know that Terlingua was once a bustling mercury mining town, and today, its ghost town charm and lively culture draw explorers from around the world. From Big Bend National Park to the Rio Grande, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights and stories waiting to be discovered here.
Frequently asked questions
You need to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes to ride. Dress for the weather!
Avoid: shorts and leggings. It's best not to wear very grippy hiking boots for safety.
Jeans and heeled boots are highly recommended.
For sunny or warm days, we suggest wearing lightweight long sleeves and bandanas. It's best to avoid tank tops and crop tops. Cowboys dress this way not just for style, but to protect themselves from the sun. The sun can be harsh out here!
1) Hydration is crucial! Each rider must bring 1L of water per hour of riding, stored in handheld bottles. Without water, you can't ride. In hotter months, it's wise to bring extra water; it's always better to have more than to run out. NO gallon jugs or CamelPaks; we supply a saddle bag for your water bottles that your horse will carry.
2) Don't forget your sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. If you're over 18 and choose not to wear a riding helmet, make sure to wear a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection!
We operate from two locations, so make sure to verify your booking or confirmation to find out which stables to go to. We suggest following the directions we provide, as phone maps and cell service can be unreliable in this area.
Big Bend Stables is located at the intersection of HWY 118 and 170, right next to the gas station.
Lajitas Stables is 2.5 miles west of Lajitas Resort on HWY 170.
The two locations are 30 minutes apart, so allow yourself enough time to travel and arrive punctually, if not a few minutes early!
The National Park prohibits horseback outfitters from riding on its property. Instead, we operate on private land adjacent to the National Park (Big Bend Stables) and also ride in Big Bend Ranch State Park (Lajitas Stables).
Big Bend Stables: 270lbs Lajitas Stables: 250lbs
This ensures the safety of both the horse and the rider, while also providing comfort for you. Horse riding is a physical sport! You need to be able to get on the horse independently and maintain your balance in the saddle, as the horse is also working to balance you. Keep in mind that riders who meet our weight limit will likely ride a mule! Mules are fantastic, and it's a wonderful chance to experience riding them!
Mules are fascinating animals, combining traits of both horses and donkeys. Their unique muscular structure allows them to carry heavier loads more effectively. Additionally, their distinct hoof design gives them better stability, making them more sure-footed. They also have improved visibility of their hind feet, which helps them navigate challenging and rocky landscapes with ease.
We ride rain or shine, but we do not ride in unsafe weather conditions (i.e. lightning) or on unsafe trail conditions.
We saddle up horses & mules according to the experience and height/weight of each rider, so your horse has already been chosen for you.
No, for several significant reasons. First, horses are social animals, and an unfamiliar presence in the group can lead to conflicts, posing risks to both the horse and rider, as well as others on the ride. Second, the terrain we traverse is extremely rugged, and our horses are adapted desert breeds with strong hooves, skilled at handling this type of environment. Lastly, there are limited boarding facilities available in this area, and we cannot provide those services.
Riders aged 15 and under must wear a provided equestrian-style helmet. If you have your own equestrian helmet and prefer to use it, you are welcome to bring it. For riders 18 and older, wearing a helmet is optional. If you choose to wear a hat instead, ensure it fits well and stays securely on your head.
Our hourly rides are strictly a walking nose-to-trail ride. Our trails are challenging and rugged, and it's important to note that we are located in a remote area, a full 90 miles from the nearest medical facility. Your well-being is our top priority.
No. Under no circumstances do we allow this. Our trails are rocky and rugged. Please know each stables has it's own specific age minimum.
Per our insurance policy, we can only accommodate children who are at least 6 years old. For our 6-year-old riders at Big Bend Stables, the ride is limited to 2 hours, and they will be riding on a donkey, guided by a wrangler throughout the experience.
Yes of course!! iPhones and handheld cameras are allowed. If you have a handheld camera (film, DSLR, etc), please have a strap on it so you can wear it cross-body. No drones or selfie-sticks are allowed.
For single adult riders, we can add you to an existing ride if possible. Please call our office to take care of this!
Book the Ride, Live the Adventure.
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