Explore historic mine ruins on a relaxed, guided walk-only ride ideal for beginners and families.
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2 Hours
Walking ride, Safety instruction
Ride a relaxed, walk-only, nose-to-tail 2-hour trail through the ruins of the Study Butte Mercury Mine. This beginner-friendly experience includes gentle elevation changes and guidance from wranglers.
Minimum age is 6 (6-year-olds ride a led donkey); max weight 270 lbs. Bring about 2 liters of water in handheld bottles and wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Riders must be able to mount and balance; check in at Big Bend Stables at 9:00 AM Central.
Cancel at least 7 days before your ride for a full refund. Full refunds are also issued if the stables cancels the ride.
BIG BEND STABLES at 9am!
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.
Went horseback riding here while on vacation in Terlingua. Very nice views, cute horses and fun experience overall. We had two awesome young ladies as our tour guides and I wish I could remember their names!! They were very friendly, knowledgeable and entertaining to listen to, and talk to. Would definitely visit again.
D Trevi
February 1, 2026
Went horseback riding here while on vacation in Terlingua. Very nice views, cute horses and fun experience overall. We had two awesome young ladies as our tour guides and I wish I could remember their names!! They were very friendly, knowledgeable and entertaining to listen to, and talk to. Would definitely visit again.
D Trevi
February 1, 2026