TERLINGUA HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Mosey Past the Study Butte Mercury Mine on a Gentle 2‑Hour Ride
A family-friendly, beginner-oriented horseback outing from Big Bend Stables that traces the ruins of the Study Butte Mercury Mine — this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
Mosey Past the Study Butte Mercury Mine on a Gentle 2‑Hour Ride.
Set against the wide, sunbaked sweep of Terlingua, the Big Bend Stables Afternoon 2‑Hour Old Mine Tour is a relaxed, family‑friendly ride that guides beginners past the weathered remains of the Study Butte Mercury Mine. Wranglers lead guests on gentle trails—on horses, donkeys, and mules—across terrain with some elevation change, making it a straightforward introduction to riding and the region’s mining history.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Ride by the Study Butte Mercury Mine Ruins
The route passes the historic Study Butte Mercury Mine ruins, allowing riders to experience local mining history from the saddle as wranglers lead the group past weathered structures and relics.
Gentle Trails with Noticeable Elevation Change
The trail is relaxed and geared toward beginners but includes elevation gain; riders should be prepared for open, exposed terrain with little to no shade during the ride.
Horses, Donkeys and Mules for All Ages
The stables use a mix of horses, donkeys and mules, and friendly wranglers guide riders—making the outing a welcoming first ride for families and novices.
What the day feels like
What the Two‑Hour Ride Feels Like
Over the course of two hours, riders move at a measured pace under wrangler direction, threading gentle ascents and descents across open desert. The emphasis is on a relaxed, family‑friendly experience suitable for beginners, with opportunities to take in the mine ruins and the stark Terlingua landscape from the saddle.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Arrive at Big Bend Stables 30 minutes before your scheduled ride time. Big Bend Stables operates on Central Time—confirm local time so you arrive promptly.
The outing is a two‑hour guided ride.
Bring at least 2 liters of water in handheld bottles (more in warm weather); wear long, sturdy pants and closed‑toed shoes. The ride is exposed with little to no shade, and warmer weather requires extra water.
Riders must be able to mount independently and maintain balance when the animal moves uphill and downhill. There is a 230 lb safety weight limit—call the operator if anyone in your group exceeds that.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Old Mine Tour?
The ride lasts two hours.
When and where do I meet for the ride?
Meet at Big Bend Stables 30 minutes before your scheduled ride; note the stables operate on Central Time.
Is this ride suitable for children and beginners?
Yes. The trail is geared toward beginners and families with young children and is intended as a relaxing, introductory ride.
What should I bring and wear?
Bring 2 liters or more of water in handheld bottles (extra in warm weather). Wear long, sturdy pants and closed‑toed shoes; avoid overly bulky or grippy boots that may not fit stirrups properly.
Are there weight or physical ability restrictions?
Yes. There is a 230 lb safety weight limit—call the operator if anyone in your group exceeds that. Riders must be able to mount on their own and balance appropriately while the animal goes uphill or downhill.
Is there shade on the ride and will it be hot?
The ride takes place with little to no shade and can occur during the hottest part of the day; warmer weather requires extra water.
Where can I find additional answers before I go?
Refer to the operator’s FAQ page for more information.