Enjoy a private 2-hour horseback adventure at Canyon Lake near Austin, Texas, featuring scenic trails and playful moments with horses in the water. Discover the Texas Hill Country's natural beauty up close!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness and the ability to sit in the saddle comfortably for two hours.
Wildlife
History
Canyon Lake was created in the 1960s by damming the Guadalupe River and has since become a popular recreational area rich in Texas Hill Country culture.
Conservation
Maverick Horseback Riding encourages sustainable trail use and minimal impact practices to protect the natural habitat and water quality.
Maverick Horseback Riding
Enjoy a private 2-hour horseback adventure at Canyon Lake near Austin, Texas, featuring scenic trails and playful moments with horses in the water. Discover the Texas Hill Country's natural beauty up close!
Maverick Horseback Riding is a ranch-based equestrian outfitter operating near Austin, Texas. The business offers guided trail rides, private horsemanship lessons, river swims with horses, and ranch experiences that appeal to beginners, families, and experienced riders.
Rides range from short bluff-top introductions to extended multi-hour excursions on scenic routes such as Onion Creek, the San Marcos River, Pace Bend Park, and Lockhart surrounding trails. Private options and horsemanship-focused rides provide individualized coaching, trotting and canter opportunities, and a safety-conscious environment supervised by trained staff.
Maverick Horseback Riding emphasizes hands-on interaction and responsible animal care. Several experiences include light instruction, animal feeding, and behind-the-scenes observation of public riding sessions, allowing guests to learn horsemanship fundamentals and basic handling techniques. Water-based experiences feature supervised swims and photo opportunities with well-trained horses in the San Marcos River.
The operation accommodates mixed groups and family riders with specific trails suited for novices and young participants. Booking options include public group rides and private reservations for couples or small groups seeking a customized pace. Located approximately 20 minutes from Austin, the ranch combines accessibility with scenic Central Texas landscapes, including wooded trails, wetlands, and panoramic bluff views.
For safety and guest satisfaction, Maverick Horseback Riding maintains experienced guides, structured ride lengths, and varied trail selections. The ranch’s mix of instructional rides, private horsemanship sessions, river experiences, and sunset excursions provides a broad palette of equestrian outings near Austin. Reservations are recommended year-round and staff can accommodate varied experience levels and special requests. Book online today.
Location
Austin, TX
20 minutes from Austin
Tours Offered
10
Trail rides and river experiences
Ride Lengths
45 min–4 hrs
Short introductions to multi-hour adventures
Book a guided trail ride, private horsemanship session, or river swim near Austin — limited spots available.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet and maintain proper grip while riding with sturdy footwear like boots or hiking shoes.
Bring sun protection
Texas sun can be strong; apply sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to stay comfortable.
Stay hydrated
Carry water to stay hydrated during the ride, especially in warmer months.
Listen to your guide
Guides provide essential safety information and tips to make your ride enjoyable and secure.
Helmet
Protect your head during the ride for safety.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong Texas sun exposure.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your Canyon Lake adventure.
Lightweight jacket
A jacket helps keep you warm during cooler mornings and evenings.
Private Rides
Available
Custom pacing for couples or groups
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