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Big Bend Stables - Morning 2HR Old Mine Tour

Trip Highlights

Mountainous views!

Mountainous views!

Well-trained desert horses & mules

Well-trained desert horses & mules

Mountainous views!

Mountainous views!

Well-trained desert horses & mules

Well-trained desert horses & mules

Mountainous views!

Mountainous views!

Well-trained desert horses & mules

Well-trained desert horses & mules

Description

A relaxing ride through the remnants of the Study Butte mine. 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.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. Ages 6+ Riders over 250lbs will need to call the office for suitability & availability **If you are looking for a more rugged & adventurous ride, or have more riding experience, we think you would really enjoy our Lajitas Stables location (Adventurous & Rugged Trails)**

Itinerary

1
This time is for paperwork, a safety talk, and getting a brief individual riding lesson. Please prepare ahead of time & do your best to be on time, if not a little early! Arriving late and/or unprepared will affect your ride.

Tour Info

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
At least 2 people
Price starts at
$85
Meeting Point
BIG BEND STABLES @ 9AM
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Why take this tour?

  • If you like history, our knowledgeable guides will tell you everything they know about the operations of the Study Butte Mine, open approximately 1901-1971. What is Mercury and what was it used for? Why did the mines shutdown? How did the miners live? The mining of this region is a crucial turning point in the discovery of the Big Bend.
  • This ride is catered for beginners/first-time riders, older folks, and those with kids as young as 6.
  • Our weight limit is 270lbs for safety. Riders above 250lbs will need to call the office for availability & suitability.
  • If you are an adventurous beginner or are an experienced rider, check out our rides out of our Lajitas Stables! We think you'd like those trails a lot

Ready to Ride?

Ready to Ride?

Big Bend Stables

Included

  • We ride horses, donkeys, and mules!
  • A safety-talk & an individual riding lesson
  • A walking trail ride

Excluded

  • Water -- each rider needs to bring their own!!

Frequently asked questions

Call the office if you are a single adult rider & we can add you to an existing ride
This is a very beginner friendly trail. Our horses and mules are very well trained!
No; horseback outfitters are not allowed to operate in the National Park, but our trails do border the National Park fence
All of our rides are walking trail-rides

Things to know

Be on Time

You need to be at the stables at 9:00 for check-in

Time Zone

BIG BEND STABLES is on CENTRAL TIME. Many phones change to MST upon arrival to the Big Bend. Double check your phone so you don't miss your ride.

Bring water!

Each rider is responsible for bringing their own water for this DESERT ride

Required Attire

Long pants & closed toed shoes. We strongly recommend a lightweight long-sleeve shirt!! Our trails are filled with pokey desert flora and fauna

Weight Limit

Max 270 lbs. Riders must be able to mount/dismount with little to no assistance. Riders should be in good health & be able to balance properly in the saddle going up and downhill. Your horse/mule is balancing themselves while also balancing you!

Riding Experience

Beginner friendly, no experience needed!

Cancellation

7 Days; we ride rain or shine!

Age requirement

6yrs & up; 6yr olds will be led by a wrangler on a donkey.

Where We're Located

Big Bend Stables is at the junction of HWY 118 & 170, near the Alon Gas Station, and just a few miles outside of Big Bend National Park.

Reviews

31 Verified reviews
George G
Tripadvisor

George G

January 7, 2026

Armando and the team did a great job making my family feel comfortable and assured their safety. His details and explanations covered everything to expect. You must ride with out beiafraid. Super experience. Admission about $130, but worth every dollar for the 2 hours. Great ride…

John Sander
Google Reviews

John Sander

December 28, 2025

It’s an excellent way to experience the desert and the Big Bend area. Views of the Mesa, the mountains, and abandoned mines. We were a family of beginners and everyone had an amazing experience. Ask for Makenzie. She took great care of us during our half day ride. She made it fun…

Rob McLellan
Google Reviews

Rob McLellan

December 23, 2025

Had an AMAZING time and mackenzie was so good she made sure to get all of our names and remember us and tell us all stories of the land and made sure to take our pictures and ask for the horse selfie! Definitely would book again.

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Check Availability

From
$85

Why book with us?

  • Book instantly directly with provider
  • Get the lowest price guarantee
  • Worry-free flexible cancellation policy
Human support:432-371-3064

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