REDFORD HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Riding the Edge: A Half-Day Ascent of Contrabando Mesa
A 4–4.5 hour guided horseback ride from Lajitas Stables that climbs Contrabando Mesa, follows cliff-edge trails with views into Mexico, and includes lunch in Lunchbox Canyon.
Riding the Edge: A Half-Day Ascent of Contrabando Mesa.
Adventure brief
Riding the Edge: A Half-Day Ascent of Contrabando Mesa
Embark from Lajitas Stables on an athletic, adventurous half-day ride that climbs Contrabando Mesa, threads rocky trails along canyon rims and cliff edges, and rewards riders with sweeping views of the Rio Grande and Mexico before a shaded lunch in Lunchbox Canyon.
In the rugged expanses of Far West Texas, just outside the town of Redford, Big Bend / Lajitas Stables offers an authentic horseback experience that highlights the region’s dramatic landscape. Their Half Day with Lunch tour takes riders on a journey up Contrabando Mesa, a striking rise that offers panoramic views of the Rio Grande valley. As you saddle up, you'll traverse winding trails carved through resilient desert flora, leading you to vantage points overlooking steep cliff edges and sweeping canyons. The trail’s terrain is a mix of rocky paths and sandy washes, challenging riders while rewarding them with endless vistas of open sky and rugged terrain. This particular route embodies the wild spirit of Big Bend country, where untouched landscapes and ancient geological formations tell stories of millions of years of earth’s history. The highlight, besides the scenic ascent, is a laid-back lunch in the shade of Lunchbox Canyon—an ideal spot to unwind amidst towering rock formations and quiet wilderness.
Big Bend / Lajitas Stables is a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in this remote corner of Texas. Their guided horseback rides are perfect for adventure-seekers wanting to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rugged charm of the Big Bend region. With experienced guides and well-cared-for horses, the experience is accessible for riders of varying skill levels, combining adventure with comfort. The opportunity to navigate trail routes that are often too challenging for vehicles makes this a standout mountain experience in the area. Not only does it cater to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, but it also appeals to those looking for an authentic, hands-on way to connect with the landscape’s wild side.
Whether you're savoring a Tex-Mex lunch beneath clear skies or taking in the vistas from lofty heights, this horseback ride provides a chance to step outside the everyday and into the heart of Big Bend’s untamed beauty. It’s an experience that celebrates the region’s history, geology, and unique flora and fauna, making it a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
Key stops and moments along the ride from check-in to lunch and return.
Check-in at Lajitas Stables
All riders must check in at Lajitas Stables on FM 170 at 8:30am; Lajitas Stables operates on Central Time, so confirm local time accordingly.
Ascent of Contrabando Mesa
The ride ascends Contrabando Mesa, following rugged trails that traverse cliff and canyon edges with views into Mexico and along the Rio Grande.
Lunch in Lunchbox Canyon
Mid-ride, riders stop for a shaded lunch in Lunchbox Canyon before the return portion of the ride.
These trails are steep, rocky, and run along edges; riders must be able to mount/dismount without assistance, have no balance issues, and adhere to the operator's weight limits and suitability checks — consult restrictions before booking.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Contrabando Mesa and Cliff-Edge Trails
The trail climbs Contrabando Mesa and runs along rocky canyon edges, offering expansive views across the Rio Grande into Mexico — terrain geared toward riders who are comfortable on rugged, steep sections.
Lunch in Lunchbox Canyon
The half-day includes a sit-down lunch in the shade of Lunchbox Canyon, providing a cool break after the exposed mesa ride.
Adventurous, Athletic Riding
Lajitas Stables designs these trails for riders with a sense of adventure — adventurous beginners are welcome, but the ride demands athleticism and sure footing on steep, rocky ground.
What the day feels like
What the Half-Day Feels Like
Expect four to four-and-a-half hours of active riding: a morning check-in, a sustained ascent and ridge ride across Contrabando Mesa with exposed canyon-edge passages and sweeping border views, then a relaxed lunch in Lunchbox Canyon before returning to the stables.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing runs approximately 4 to 4.5 hours.
Check-in is at Lajitas Stables on FM 170 at 8:30am; note that Lajitas Stables operates on Central Time — confirm local timing before arrival.
Bring about 3 liters of water in handheld bottles (no gallon jugs or backpacks); warmer weather requires extra water and there is no shade on parts of the ride.
Wear long, sturdy pants and closed-toed shoes; avoid bulky or grippy boots that don't fit properly into stirrups.
Riders must be able to mount and dismount without assistance, have no balance issues, and meet the operator's weight-limit and suitability checks.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
I've never ridden before, is this an okay ride?
If you consider yourself adventurous and athletic, then yes — these are rugged trails. The ride is not recommended for those with vertigo or a fear of heights.
What is the weight limit?
There is a weight limit of 250 lbs; anyone over 230 lbs needs to call the office before booking to confirm availability and suitability.
When and where do we meet?
Check-in is at Lajitas Stables on FM 170 at 8:30am; the stables use Central Time, so verify local time when planning.
How much water should I bring and in what container?
Bring approximately 3 liters of water in handheld bottles; do not bring gallon jugs or backpacks. Warm weather requires extra water and there is no shade on parts of the ride.
What should I wear?
Wear long, sturdy pants and closed-toed shoes. Avoid bulky or overly grippy boots that typically don't fit properly into the stirrups.
Are the trails exposed or shaded?
The trails include exposed, rocky, and steep sections with no shade on parts of the ride; lunch is served in shaded Lunchbox Canyon.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:15:38.202Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.