Saddle up!

Duration

1 hour

About

Have you always wanted to ride a horse? The one-hour is our most popular and signature ride. Are you stepping outside your comfort zone? That’s ok. The one-hour was created for those who haven’t been in the saddle.

After dropping down into a draw you will follow French Creek, one of the most beautiful natural areas within Custer State Park. In the tall willows and grass, deer make themselves at home. Along the creek, Blue Heron fish and turtles lounge on granite rocks. Sit back and relax, cowpokes!

More info

Take part in the exclusive opportunity to ride in Custer State Park, as we are the only riding stables within its boundaries. Our guided horseback rides depart from Blue Bell Lodge Stables and are one of the most peaceful, scenic ways to experience the park's trails. All ages are welcome, with Lil' Buckaroo rides at the stables available for the youngsters. However, to go out on the trail, children must ride alone and meet minimum safety requirements. Open through the end of September.

Prepare to Ride

Check-in at the Stables office. Each rider must turn in a completed Registration & Liability Waiver Form. All participants under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. You may bring your own equine or bike helmet to wear. Those 18 and older who do not wish to wear a helmet must complete our Helmet Waiver.

-Each rider will be assigned an individual horse based on weight; no double riding. -Maximum weight limit: 230 lbs for individuals 6-feet or less. (For those who are 6-feet or taller, please call to inquire about maximum weight limits).

-Guests need to be physically fit, able to remain upright, and fit properly in the saddle. Our wranglers will ensure that you are matched with the proper horse and fit safely in the saddle.

-Riders must be able to follow wranglers' instructions. Anyone failing to abide by the rules will be asked to dismount and return to the stables on foot.

Weather The Black Hills are set in an ever-changing climate. For safety, rides may be delayed or rescheduled due to active thunder and/or lightning...but just like the cowboys before us, we will ride in the rain.

What to bring:

To ensure the safety of all riders, we ask that you leave behind: backpacks, purses, fanny packs, cameras, Go-Pros, ponchos, neck accessories and water bottles. We do not allow anything hanging from or tied to you. If you chose to wear a jacket, it must remain on and zipped for the duration of the ride. Cellphones are permitted to take pictures.

Don't forget to kiss your horse and tip your guide!

Cowpoke Attire

During your ride you will experience tall grasses, brush, treed areas, and creek crossings. We ask that each rider wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.