NORTH PLATTE HORSE FIELD GUIDE
A Riverwalk on Horseback: A One‑Hour Loop Along the North Platte
A guided, one-hour, 3-mile walking trail ride along the south bank of the North Platte River for riders ages 6 and up; this guide lays out logistics, recommended gear, and the wildlife you’re likely to see.
A Riverwalk on Horseback: A One‑Hour Loop Along the North Platte.
Adventure brief
A Riverwalk on Horseback: A One‑Hour Loop Along the North Platte
Experience a scenic, guided one‑hour horseback ride that follows a three‑mile loop along the south bank of the North Platte River. The ride moves at a walking pace and is suitable for inexperienced and experienced riders alike, with abundant native grasses, flowers and a variety of birdlife punctuating the route. Dusty Trails pairs the ride with access to a petting zoo that may be visited before or after your time in the saddle.
Located in North Platte, Nebraska, Dusty Trails offers a distinctive horseback riding experience that invites riders of all skill levels to connect with the outdoors along the North Platte River. This one-hour trail ride covers a 3-mile loop hugging the river’s southern bank, creating a dynamic outdoor classroom enriched with native grasses, wildflowers, and towering cottonwoods. The route effortlessly blends quiet river views with glimpses of local wildlife, including bald eagles perched high in the treetops and great blue herons skimming the shoreline.
Dusty Trails stands out not just for its accessible and scenic trail rides, but for its integration of a petting zoo that guests can visit before or after mounting up. This approachable combination suits families, groups, and anyone seeking a hands-on outdoor experience in the heart of Nebraska’s Great Plains.
North Platte itself, known historically as a key railroad hub, offers a welcoming gateway to adventures that highlight the region’s rugged charm and natural beauty. Dusty Trails brings forward a unique blend of wilderness and leisure that reflects the area’s heritage and environment.
Whether you’re organizing a birthday party, family reunion, or a corporate outing, this gentle walking pace ride allows everyone to engage with the landscape without prior riding experience. Wranglers provide attentive guidance, ensuring safety while fostering a genuine connection with the horses and surroundings.
The trail’s ecosystem is notable for abundant bird species, from hawks circling overhead to flocks of ducks and red-winged blackbirds punctuating the marshy edges. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended to navigate the sometimes uneven terrain comfortably. The experience also honors responsible recreation, requiring a Nebraska Park Entry Permit to ensure the preservation of this vibrant stretch of river habitat.
For visitors seeking an immersive, nature-rich ride that balances relaxation and discovery, Dusty Trails is an essential destination on the Nebraska outdoor recreation map.
Route Schematic
Route schematic & stops
A concise run‑through of the ride’s flow and points of interest.
Check‑in at Dusty Trails
Arrive and check in at Dusty Trails (2717 N. Buffalo Bill Ave) at least five minutes before your scheduled ride; staff will advise on mounting and any ride details.
Mounting and trailhead
Mount with staff assistance (mounting blocks are available and used at wrangler discretion) and begin the walking pace ride that follows the south bank of the North Platte.
Riverside loop
Follow the three‑mile loop along the river, watching for bald eagles, herons and other birds while passing through stands of native grasses and trees.
Return to the stables & petting zoo
Finish the loop back at Dusty Trails where you can visit the petting zoo either before or after your ride; non‑riding guests may enter the petting zoo for a small fee.
All participants must follow wrangler directions; rides are for ages 6 and up. If any rider has physical or mental limitations, disclose them when booking and at check‑in. Mounting blocks are available and used at the wranglers’ discretion.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A three‑mile loop on the river’s south bank
The trail follows the south bank of the North Platte River, a compact scenic loop that showcases native grasses, wildflowers and riverside vistas on a gentle walking ride.
Birdlife and river species easy to spot
Riders commonly encounter a range of birds along the river, including bald eagles, hawks, ducks, geese, gulls, red‑winged blackbirds and great blue herons, plus other local wildlife.
Family‑friendly extras and group bookings
Dusty Trails welcomes groups and parties, and the on‑site petting zoo may be enjoyed before or after the ride at no additional charge for riding participants (non‑riding guests may pay a small fee).
What the day feels like
What the hour feels like
You check in at the Dusty Trails stables and, within a few minutes, mount for a steady, walking‑pace ride that completes a three‑mile loop along the river. The pace is deliberate and accessible, giving riders time to watch birds on the riverbank, take in the riparian vegetation and settle into the rhythm of the horse; the ride is framed by the convenience of a petting zoo on site for a quieter finish or warm up.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should choose something else.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The advertised ride duration is one hour and follows a three‑mile loop along the river at a walking pace.
Long pants and closed‑toed shoes are recommended but not required; dress appropriately for the weather as rides operate in all conditions. A valid Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required for vehicles and may be purchased at check‑in or online.
Check in at Dusty Trails, 2717 N. Buffalo Bill Ave, North Platte, at least five minutes prior to your ride time. The ride begins promptly at the scheduled time.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the ride?
The trail ride lasts one hour and covers a three‑mile loop.
What is the minimum age to ride?
Riders must be ages 6 and older to participate.
When should I check in?
Please check in at Dusty Trails (2717 N. Buffalo Bill Ave) at least five minutes prior to your scheduled ride time; the ride will begin promptly.
What is the cancellation policy?
Reservations may be canceled up to one week prior for a refund minus a 10% booking fee. Cancellations less than one week prior are non‑refundable. If the operator cancels your ride, you will be fully refunded.
Is there a fee for the petting zoo?
Riding participants may enjoy the petting zoo before or after the ride at no additional charge; non‑horseback guests may use the petting zoo for $5 per person, with children 2 years and younger free.
Do I need a park permit?
Yes. A valid Nebraska Park Entry Permit is required for all vehicles on the premises and can be purchased at check‑in or online at the Nebraska Game and Parks site.
How do I change my reservation or book a large group?
To reschedule, adjust participant numbers, or arrange bookings larger than 18 people, contact Dusty Trails at 308‑530‑0048.
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: 2026-08-16T06:59:28.022Z
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.