Introduce kids to horseback riding with brief, guided pony rides in North Platte, Nebraska, complemented by a warm petting zoo experience. Perfect for families seeking gentle outdoor fun.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 minutes per ride
Fitness Level
Suitable for children ages 3 and up with minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
North Platte played a pivotal role in the American frontier era, serving as a key railroad hub in the 19th century.
Conservation
Pony Ride/Short Ride emphasizes humane animal care and supports local grassland preservation efforts.
Dusty Trails
Introduce kids to horseback riding with brief, guided pony rides in North Platte, Nebraska, complemented by a warm petting zoo experience. Perfect for families seeking gentle outdoor fun.
Dusty Trails is a Nebraska outfitter located near North Platte that specializes in family-friendly horseback rides and river floats. The operation offers four core experiences: a Pony Ride/Short Ride for young children with a 10-minute trail ride (kids ages 6 and up ride solo; younger children are guided by wranglers) and a petting zoo; a Maxwell Float Trip — a relaxed 5.5-mile float on the canal south of Maxwell available by kayak, tank, or tube, with shuttle service and life jackets provided; a Paxton Float Trip — a 2.5-hour float on the North Platte River with tanks, tubes, or kayaks, transportation, life jackets, and space for snacks and drinks; and a one-hour Trail Ride — a scenic three-mile loop along the North Platte River suitable for all skill levels, with wildlife viewing and a petting zoo visit before or after the ride.
Reservations accommodate families and small groups. Vehicles for floats include provided shuttle transportation between launch and pickup points. Equipment options such as kayaks, tubes, and tanks give guests choices for float style. Safety gear, including life jackets, is included on float trips.
Dusty Trails highlights local scenery, including river views, bridges on the Maxwell canal, sandy bars on the Paxton route, and frequent birdlife. The business emphasizes memorable outdoor experiences in western Nebraska, combining horseback riding, river floats, and hands-on animal interactions at the petting zoo. Operating from North Platte, Dusty Trails offers accessible outdoor recreation for visitors exploring Nebraska's river corridors and group bookings.
Location
North Platte, NE
Based near the North Platte River
Tours Offered
4 Trips
Pony, trail, Maxwell and Paxton floats
Family Friendly
Kids 6+ Solo
Younger kids guided by wranglers
Shuttle & Gear
Shuttle + Lifejackets
Provided for float trips
Book pony rides, 1-hour trail rides, Maxwell or Paxton floats and confirm shuttle and life jacket options today.
Dress for the outdoors
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for horseback riding and interacting with animals.
Arrive early
Arriving early lets kids get comfortable with the animals and setting before their ride begins.
Stay hydrated
Bring water bottles for everyone, especially on warm days, to stay refreshed during activities.
Follow wrangler instructions
Listen carefully to wranglers to keep your child safe and ensure a smooth ride.
Closed-toe shoes
Protects feet during horseback riding and while walking around the petting zoo.
Sun hat
Provides shade during sunny rides and outdoor animal encounters.
summer
Light jacket
Keeps children warm during cooler spring days outdoors.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Helps maintain hydration throughout visits and rides.