Saddle up for the Lockhart BBQ Ride near Austin, Texas—a unique blend of scenic horseback trails and legendary Texas barbecue. Discover why this adventure is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic horseback riding stamina is helpful for comfort on longer trails.
Wildlife
History
Lockhart is known as the 'BBQ Capital of Texas' with a rich history in traditional pit-smoked barbecue dating back over a century.
Conservation
Maverick Horseback Riding promotes sustainable trail use by maintaining proper horse care and encouraging minimal environmental impact during rides.
Maverick Horseback Riding
Saddle up for the Lockhart BBQ Ride near Austin, Texas—a unique blend of scenic horseback trails and legendary Texas barbecue. Discover why this adventure is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
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 by wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for horseback riding.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle as Texas weather can get warm, especially during summer rides.
Bring Sun Protection
Use sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from strong Texas sun exposure.
Notify Guides About Riding Experience
Let guides know your horseback riding skill level for a tailored and safe experience.
Comfortable Riding Boots
Provides support and safety while riding and walking on uneven terrain.
Lightweight Long Sleeves
Protects against sun and brush scratches during spring rides.
spring
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Keeps you shaded from the harsh summer sun.
summer
Private Rides
Available
Custom pacing for couples or groups
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust to fluctuating temperatures especially during morning and evening rides.
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