Big Bend and lajitas stables
After eight years of guiding and packing in Colorado, owner Linda Walker decided to begin a new adventure in the Big Bend, and in 1988 founded Lajitas Stables. Originally located in downtown Lajitas, we moved to our current location two miles west of town in 2006. This spot provides us with easy access to Big Bend Ranch State Park, where we are the only horseback operator in the park's 350,000 acres. Even our multi-day overnight trips barely scratch the surface! During our long history in Lajitas we've done it all. For many years we were the official outfitter for the Big Bend Ranch longhorn cattle drive, one of the most popular programs the State Park has ever offered and a perennial client favorite. We also guided five-day trips into Old Mexico, giving clients the chance to experience south-of-the-border culture firsthand, until government closure of the border forced us to suspend travel. In the early days, many of our horses came from Mexico, and although that's no longer true, our horses are still 'natives' who were born and raised locally.
Big Bend Stables is our main booking office and the headquarters of our operation. Horseback rides have been happening here for many years—we began leading trips in 1996 when the previous owners decided to leave the horse industry. Although no horseback outfitters have access to Big Bend National Park, a mutually beneficial agreement with several private landowners allows us to ride into a beautiful area bordering the park. For over 30 years, we have bred, raised, and trained our own horses, and every one begins life at Big Bend Stables, where they take their first steps and learn their first lessons. We also have a small herd of authentic Texas longhorn cattle on the property, generally complete with moms and babies. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of one or more out in the pasture—a glimpse of true Texas history. More of that history is on display as we tour the old Study Butte Mine, and our guides are always happy to share their knowledge of local history with visitors. Our wranglers are also well-trained at riding and guiding, and hold Wilderness First Aid certifications. We want every client to enjoy the scenic desert landscape around us in safety and comfort!
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The diversity of experiences that the Lajitas and Big Bend have brought to this last 30 years is a testament for this group’s love of the great outdoors and the world of horses.
Meet your wranglers!
Your wranglers/guides are seasoned professionals with a commitment to safety and to sharing their recognized horsemanship, outdoor suave and cultivated interpretation of the area. They are also all certified in First Aid/CPR and Wilderness Advanced First Aid.
*If you like your ride, kiss your horse and tip your guide! Your wranglers work very hard from before the sun rises till after the sun goes down to make sure your horses are fed, groomed and saddled, and that you have an above-expectations ride. We are proud of the experience that they provide for you and your family and friends! Cash is preferred, but leave a gratuity on the credit card, or most wranglers take Venmo or Zelle.*
