Scenic Guided Horseback Rides in the Black Hills

Experience guided trail rides from THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch near Hill City, South Dakota — views of Black Elk Peak, Harney Tower, and Willow Creek.

Guided Trail Rides

Two custom trail ride options through the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and Black Hills National Forest.

Hill City

Custom 1 Hour Guided Trail Ride in Hill City, SD

Experience a serene 1-hour guided trail ride through South Dakota’s Black Hills with stunning views and personalized service. Perfect for nature lovers and riders of all levels.

Custom 1 Hour Guided Trail Ride in Hill City, SD

land adventures

Hill City, South Dakota

Hill City

Custom 1.5 Hour Guided Trail Ride in Hill City, SD

Join THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch for a personalized 1.5-hour horseback ride through South Dakota’s Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. Enjoy serene forest views and stunning granite formations on this exclusive outdoor adventure.

Custom 1.5 Hour Guided Trail Ride in Hill City, SD

Rapid City

Land Adventures at Palmer Gulch: Wagon Ride & Chuck Wagon Dinner

Enjoy an authentic Western experience in South Dakota with a scenic wagon ride and hearty chuck wagon dinner at Palmer Gulch. Relish cowboy stories, lively performances, and stunning Black Hills scenery.

Land Adventures at Palmer Gulch: Wagon Ride & Chuck Wagon Dinner

About THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch

THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch operates guided horseback trail rides in the Black Hills near Hill City, South Dakota. Located adjacent to the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, THE STABLES offers guided trail experiences that showcase granite formations, Ponderosa Pine forests, and views of Black Elk Peak and Harney Tower. Riders follow scenic routes along Willow Creek and through national forest lands.

Rides are available in two custom formats: a 1-hour guided trail ride and a 1.5-hour guided trail ride. Both trips are led by trained guides who match horses to rider ability and prioritize safety on varied terrain. The 1-hour ride provides an intimate introduction to the area’s natural highlights, while the 1.5-hour option extends the route for additional vistas and quiet forest sections.

The Stable’s location at Palmer Gulch positions it as a convenient equestrian access point for visitors staying in Hill City and nearby Custer State Park. Equipment, mounting assistance, and trail orientation are included with guided rides. Reservations are recommended to secure preferred times during peak seasons.

THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch operates within regulations for trails in the Black Hills National Forest and Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. Riders should prepare for outdoor conditions and follow guide instructions to protect wildlife and natural features. For travelers seeking a structured, scenic horseback experience near Hill City, THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch provides straightforward guided trail rides that highlight the Black Hills’ geology and forests. Tours accommodate beginners through experienced riders and follow established safety protocols year-round with seasonal scheduling flexibility.

THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch — Guided Horseback Rides in the Black Hills

THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch offers guided trail rides near Hill City, South Dakota, providing direct access to the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and Black Hills National Forest. These guided horseback experiences highlight the region’s granite formations, Ponderosa Pine and Aspen groves, and landmark views of Black Elk Peak and Harney Tower.

Popular Rides

Custom 1 Hour Guided Trail Ride — A focused, scenic loop along Willow Creek that showcases nearby rock outcrops and forested vistas. Ideal for visitors seeking a concise outdoor activity near Hill City.
Custom 1.5 Hour Guided Trail Ride — An extended route that travels deeper into the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve for additional viewpoints and a longer connection with the Black Hills landscape.

Why Choose These Guided Trail Rides

Scenic value: Routes pass notable Black Hills landmarks including views toward Black Elk Peak and historic Harney Tower.
Guided experience: Each ride is led by trained guides who match horses to rider ability and provide trail orientation and safety instructions.
Accessible location: Based at Palmer Gulch, the stables are convenient for visitors staying in Hill City and those exploring Custer State Park.

Rider Information & What to Expect

Duration options: 1 hour and 1.5 hour guided rides available.
Terrain: Trails include creekside paths, granite outcrops, and mixed forest sections within Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and Black Hills National Forest.
What to bring: Prepare for outdoor conditions — wear closed-toe shoes, layered clothing, and sun protection. Reservations are recommended, especially in peak season.

Safety & Stewardship

Guided rides operate within the regulations for the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and Black Hills National Forest. Guides provide mounting assistance, trail orientation, and instructions to minimize impact on wildlife and natural features. Riders are asked to follow all guide directions to ensure safety and preserve trail conditions.

Location & Booking

THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch is located near Hill City, South Dakota, and serves as an equestrian access point to the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. For those searching online, use terms like "guided trail rides Hill City," "horseback riding Black Hills," or "Norbeck Wildlife Preserve rides" to find ride details and booking options.

Final Notes

For travelers seeking well-structured, scenic horseback rides in the Black Hills, THE STABLES at Palmer Gulch provides guided trail experiences that emphasize natural highlights, trail safety, and clear ride options. Book a 1-hour or 1.5-hour guided trail ride to explore the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and experience the geology and forests surrounding Hill City, South Dakota.

Reserve a Guided Trail Ride Near Hill City

Choose a 1-hour or 1.5-hour guided ride through Norbeck Wildlife Preserve — book to secure preferred times.