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.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness required to handle extended riding and some uneven terrain
Wildlife
History
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.
Conservation
Maverick Horseback Riding practices sustainable trail use to protect local flora and minimize horse impact on natural habitats.
Maverick Horseback Riding
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.
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.
Flexible Scheduling
Be prepared for ride times to shift by up to 1.5 hours and use that flexibility to enjoy Lockhart’s downtown shops.
Weight Restrictions Apply
Riders over 185 lbs (women) or 199 lbs (men) should contact Maverick before booking to ensure safety and comfort.
Bring Cash for Barbecue
The BBQ meal isn’t included in the ride price, so plan to pay for your food when stopping downtown.
Minimum Group Size
This ride requires at least two participants. Solo riders may be combined or rescheduled to meet this requirement.
Closed-toe Riding Boots
Protect your feet and provide stability while in the stirrups.
Sun Protection (Hat and Sunscreen)
Essential for shielding skin during exposed sections of the ride.
spring|summer|fall
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Provides warmth during chilly mornings or unexpected weather changes.
fall|winter|spring
Private Rides
Available
Custom pacing for couples or groups
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during warmer months.