Long pants & closed-toe shoes are a requirement to ride. The weather has the ability to change fast so be prepared!
No: shorts, leggings
We recommend avoiding super grippy hiking boots for safety.
Jeans & boots with a heel are MOST recommended.
For sunny or warmer weather, we highly recommend lightweight long sleeves & bandanas, and strongly advise against tank-tops and crop-tops. Cowboys don't cover themselves up to look cool, they do it for sun protection. The sun is unforgiving out here!
What should I bring?
1) Water! Water, water, water. You need one liter of still water per hour of riding in handheld bottles. No water = no ride. Bring extra water in the warmer months: better to have it and not need it then to need it and not have it.
No: gallon jugs or CamelPaks, we provide a saddle bag for your water bottles that the horse carries for you
2) Sunglasses, sunscreen, & a hat: if you are 18+ & opting out of a riding helmet, wear a wide-brimmed hat!
Where do I meet for my ride?
We have 2 locations, so PLEASE check your booking/confirmation to know which stables you are to meet at. We recommend using the directions that we provide; phone maps & cell service are not reliable out here!
Big Bend Stables is at the junction of HWY 118 & 170 next to the gas station.
Lajitas Stables is 2.5 west of Lajitas Resort on HWY 170.
Our two locations are 30 minutes apart. Give yourself plenty of time to travel so you arrive on time.
Do we ride in Big Bend National Park?
No, the National Park does not allow horseback outfitters to ride within the park property. We ride on private property that borders the National Park (Big Bend Stables) and then we ride in Big Bend Ranch State Park (Lajitas Stables)
Is there a weight limit?
Big Bend Stables: 270lbs Lajitas Stables: 250lbs
This is for the safety of the horse, as well as the rider, and not to mention comfort for yourself. Horse riding is an athletic activity! You must be able to mount the animal by yourself and balance yourself in the saddle, because the horse is balancing itself with you on their back. *Please know riders at our weight limit will more than likely ride a mule! Mules are awesome and it's a great opportunity to get to ride them!*
What is a mule?
Mules are super cool: they are half horse and half donkey. They have a different muscular build so they are better equipped to handle heavier weights. They are known to be more sure-footed because of their slightly different hoof build, and they are able to see their back feet clearer so they are ample for navigating rough and rocky terrain!
Do we ride in rain or snow?
We ride rain or shine, but we do not ride in unsafe weather conditions (i.e. lightning) or on unsafe trail conditions.
Can I pick my horse?
We saddle up horses & mules according to the experience and height/weight of each rider, so your horse has already been chosen for you.
Can I bring my own horse on my ride?
No, for a few very important reasons. 1) Horses are herd animals, and a unfamiliar face in the string can cause fights and be dangerous to both horse and rider, and to others in the ride. 2) The terrain we ride on is VERY rough and our horses are acclimated desert horses who have very tough feet and are pros at navigating this environment. 3) Boarding places are few and far between out here, and we are unable to offer those services.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Riders 15 and under: Required to wear an equestrian style helmet that we provide.
If you currently have an equestrian helmet, feel free to bring it if it makes you feel more comfortable.
Riders 18+: Helmets are optional. Bring a WELL-FITTING hat that won't fly off your head!
Do we get to gallop?
For the safety of our guests and horses, ALL OF our rides are only walking. Our trails are rugged. We are very remote and 90 miles away from the nearest doctor/hospital.
Can my child ride on the same horse as me?
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.
I have a kid who is under 6 yrs old. What do you have available for them?
Per our insurance policy, the youngest age we can take is 6. 6yr olds are limited to a 2Hr ride at our Big Bend Stables, and the 6yr olds will be on a donkey while a wrangler leads them for the duration of the ride.
Can I bring my camera?
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 are allowed.
