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Saddle up for a Texas ride that blends rolling hills and scenic pastures with downtown Lockhart’s famous barbecue. Discover horsemanship and local culture on a private day trip from Austin.
Saddle up for a Texas ride that blends rolling hills and scenic pastures with downtown Lockhart’s famous barbecue. Discover horsemanship and local culture on a private day trip from Austin.
Book with Maverick Horseback Riding
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Maverick Horseback Riding · Austin, Texas
Lockhart, Texas, a town celebrated as the "Barbecue Capital of Texas," unfolds a distinctive rustic charm unmatched in the Hill Country. Just under an hour south of Austin, this inviting town blends rolling pastures and gentle hills with historic downtown streets lined by iconic barbecue joints. Here, Maverick Horseback Riding offers the Private Lockhart BBQ Ride, a unique journey that marries Texas’ equestrian heritage with its renowned culinary culture.
This adventure invites riders to spend 2 to 2.5 hours in the saddle, traveling through hilly woods and open pasturelands that showcase breathtaking panoramas of Lockhart’s natural surroundings. Along the route, riders get more than just scenic views — they engage directly with the horses, learning about their behaviors and the subtle art of horsemanship. This educational aspect provides a grounded experience that goes beyond typical trail rides.
The ride culminates in the heart of downtown Lockhart, a small but vibrant square surrounded by legendary barbecue eateries. This fusion of outdoor activity and local gastronomy is what sets Maverick Horseback Riding apart. Guests have the option to pause the ride and savor authentic Texas barbecue from some of the area’s most celebrated smokehouses, making it a flexible and immersive day trip.
Maverick Horseback Riding offers this trip exclusively as a private group experience, ensuring an intimate pace tailored to guests’ preferences. With its close proximity to Austin, it’s a standout outdoor destination for riders seeking a true Texan day that blends rugged terrain, cultural insight, and some of the best barbecue in the state. For those wanting to connect with Texas beyond the usual, the Private Lockhart BBQ Ride delivers a full-bodied adventure layered with flavor and history.
moderate.
2–2.5 hours.
Basic fitness required to handle extended riding and some uneven terrain
No, beginners are welcome. The ride includes instruction to help you feel comfortable with your horse.
The total excursion lasts between 3 to 5 hours, including 2 to 2.5 hours in the saddle.
No, the price does not include the BBQ meal. You can purchase food at local eateries during the ride.
The ride requires a minimum of two riders. Solo bookings may be combined with others or rescheduled.
Yes, women weighing over 185 lbs and men over 199 lbs should contact Maverick before booking.
Lockhart is about a 30 to 40-minute drive southeast of Austin, making it a perfect day trip option.
Lockhart has been a Texas barbecue hub since the early 1900s and retains historic charm with preserved downtown buildings dating back to the late 19th century.
Maverick Horseback Riding practices sustainable trail use to protect local flora and minimize horse impact on natural habitats.
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.
Book with Maverick Horseback Riding