Relaxed 2-hour horseback ride past the Study Butte Mercury Mine ruins
2 Hours
Guided ride, Horse or donkey
Ride nose to tail at a walk on a beginner-friendly trail with elevation changes near Study Butte. You’ll pass the ruins of the Study Butte Mercury Mine on this relaxed afternoon ride.
Minimum age is 6; 6-year-olds ride a donkey led by a wrangler. Maximum weight is 270 lbs (122.47 kilos), and you must be able to balance in the saddle. Gratuity is not included; confirm tipping expectations with Greetwell before booking.
Full refund if you cancel 7+ days prior to ride date, or if the stables cancels the ride.
Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes (required). Skip shorts or leggings. Dress for sun protection, weather, and pokey plants; lightweight long-sleeve shirts and a hat are recommended.
Bring 2+ liters of still water per rider in handheld bottles. Don’t bring gallon jugs or a backpack; a saddlebag is provided. For younger riders, bring smaller water bottles.
You must be at least 6 years old. Six-year-olds ride a donkey led by a wrangler. Maximum rider weight is 270 lbs (122.47 kilos).
BIG BEND STABLES 30 minutes before your ride
Big Bend Stables delivers consistently excellent horseback riding experiences, with guests raving about both the well-cared-for horses and the exceptional guides. Mackenzie (sometimes spelled Makinzie) gets mentioned repeatedly for her deep knowledge of the area's history, plants, and trails, while Evo stands out for his humor, safety focus, and photography skills. Javier, Shelby, Bryan, and James also earn praise for making rides enjoyable and engaging. The horses themselves are described as well-behaved, surefooted, and clearly loved by their handlers. Riders of all experience levels seem to find their comfort zone here, from families with beginners to guests in their seventies. The variety of rides, from morning tours to half-day adventures with picnic lunches, showcase beautiful desert landscapes, abandoned mines, and mesa views. What really elevates the experience is how guides share stories about Terlingua's history and local flora while taking plenty of photos, including the popular "horse selfies." The genuine care for both animals and guests shines through in every review, making this a standout addition to any Big Bend trip.
Great experience with awesome guides.
Chase Harrison
April 7, 2026
Great experience with awesome guides.
Chase Harrison
April 7, 2026