Step Back Into The Old West
Step back in time on a relaxed two-hour horseback ride through the ruins of the historic Study Butte Mine near Big Bend. Morning light glows across the desert as gentle horses and mules carry you through open terrain and past relics of the Old West. Friendly wranglers share local stories and ensure a comfortable, memorable ride for beginners and families alike.
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$85 USD
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6
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2 Hours
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Big Bend, Texas
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Terlingua
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- Beginner-Friendly Horseback Ride
- Explore Historic Study Butte Mine
- Wrangler-Led Donkey Rides for Kids
- Family-Friendly Adventure
- Expert Wrangler Guidance
- Scenic Desert Vistas
- Authentic Western Experience
- Relaxed & Safe Pace
- All Ages Welcome
- Old West Storytelling
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- Professional wranglers, horses/mules/donkeys, trail ride, safety instruction
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- Long pants, closed-toe shoes, hat, and at least 2 liters of water per rider required.
Big Bend Stables – Morning Old Mine Tour Features
Beginner-Friendly Adventure
Enjoy a calm, confidence-building ride led by professional wranglers who provide instruction and encouragement for every rider.
History Beneath Desert Skies
Follow easy trails past weathered mine structures and desert hills as you hear tales from the early 1900s mercury-mining days.
Family Time on the Trail
Kids ride donkeys led by guides, making this the perfect first horseback experience for families exploring Big Bend together.
Big Bend Stables – Morning Old Mine Tour Details
- Highlights
- Description
- Itinerary
- Price & Availability
- Food & Drink
- Instructions
- Restrictions
- Transportation
Highlights
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Beginner-Friendly Ride
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Scenic Desert Vistas
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Family-Friendly Adventure
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Expert Wrangler Guidance
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Old West History
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Breath-Taking Views
Description
Discover Big Bend’s mining past on a gentle, two-hour guided ride. This relaxed tour explores the Study Butte Mine area just outside Big Bend National Park. Learn about the region’s early mercury mines, ride sure-footed horses or mules across desert terrain, and enjoy photo stops under vast West Texas skies. Perfect for first-time riders, families, and anyone seeking a true taste of the Old West.
Itinerary
9:00 AM – Check in at the corral near Terlingua (Central Time)
9:15 AM – Safety briefing and riding instruction
9:30 AM – Begin trail ride through the historic Study Butte Mine area
10:15 AM – Stories and photo stop among old mining ruins
10:45 AM – Ride across open desert with panoramic views
11:30 AM – Return to corral and conclude tour
Price & Availability
Adults $85 per rider; 50 % deposit required at booking.
Food & Drink
No meals included; bring your own water (min 2 liters recommended).
Instructions
Arrive 15 minutes before departure for check-in and orientation.
Restrictions
Weight limit 270 lbs; riders must mount and dismount independently; not for those with balance issues.
Transportation
Transportation not included.
Frequently Asked Questions
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CONTACT US
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National Park Tours
700 Rochelle Cir
Fort Collins, CO 80526 -
Meeting locations vary for each tour: You will be sent a meeting location after you book
