THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Beat the Texas heat with a private adventure combining river swimming, scenic hiking, and horse encounters near Austin. Perfect for relaxation and nature lovers alike!
Beat the Texas heat with a private adventure combining river swimming, scenic hiking, and horse encounters near Austin. Perfect for relaxation and nature lovers alike!
Book with Maverick Horseback Riding
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Maverick Horseback Riding · Austin, Texas
Discover a refreshing outdoor adventure with the Staples River Audit & River Access experience, located just outside Austin, Texas. Offered by Maverick Horseback Riding, this private trip blends the tranquility of river swimming with scenic hiking and intimate encounters with horses guided by experts. Wander through picturesque private farms and ranches, taking in wide-open views while enjoying a leisurely hike perfect for all skill levels. This experience is ideal for those who want to accompany riders or simply unwind in nature’s embrace. The highlight is a peaceful picnic beside the cool river, providing a perfect escape from the Texas heat. With expert guides ensuring a safe and insightful outing, you’ll enjoy learning about the local ecosystem and the horses you meet along the way. Whether you want to swim, hike, relax by the water, or soak up the scenic vistas, this activity offers a unique and memorable outdoor experience close to Austin’s vibrant urban scene.
easy.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic stamina for walking on uneven terrain required.
Yes, guests can enjoy swimming in designated safe spots along the river during the adventure.
No riding experience is needed as the trip focuses on accompanying riders and enjoying river access rather than horseback riding.
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; the activity is family-friendly with easy hiking.
Tours may be rescheduled or modified depending on weather conditions for guest safety and comfort.
Basic restroom facilities are available near the starting point, but none are located right by the river access area.
The trail includes natural terrain and uneven paths and is not suitable for wheelchair access.
The area has a rich ranching history, with working farms preserving traditional Texas agricultural culture.
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect the river ecosystem and private lands throughout the adventure.
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