As you might expect, Texas Hill Country has plenty of stables where you can schedule trail rides in the scenic Texas countryside. We've listed a few of our favorite stables in this article. All are relatively close to Al's Hideaway, and all offer enjoyable rides at reasonable prices. Keep in mind that reservations at most of the businesses are required or strongly encouraged. If you'd like more information on horseback riding in our area, feel free to give us a call at your convenience. We'll be glad to help.
Bandera Historical Rides
Address: 749 Old Medina Hwy., Bandera, TX
Hours: Daily, 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Closed Mondays
Distance from us: 15 miles
Bandera Historical Rides offers a unique horseback riding experience in the Cowboy Capital of the World, Bandera, Texas. Riders can explore scenic trails along the Medina River, visit historic sites in town, and enjoy authentic ranch adventures. Perfect for beginners and seasoned riders, these private rides are tailored to your preferences, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the Texas Hill Country.
For safety reasons, the minimum age limit is 8 years old, and the maximum weight limit is 220 lbs. Riding double is not allowed.
Outlaw Outfitters offers a number of unique horseback rides near Bandera, Texas. You can ride along the Medina River or through remote parts of Texas Hill Country. You can even schedule a sunset ride through the Hill Country State Natural Area. Horseback rides can be from one hour to six hours, depending on your needs. Prices vary, but are typically around $70/hour.
The minimum age for a rider is 6 years old, and the maximum weight is 230 lbs. Double riding is not permitted.
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (or daylight hours)
Distance from us: 14.0 miles (approx.)
Cross G Ranch Trail Rides is a 200-acre ranch in Bandera where you can enjoy private horse rides on professionally trained horses. The terrain their rides cover includes creeks, wooded areas, plateaus, hills, and valleys. The specific trails you'll follow will depend on your riding experience and ability. In addition, if you're an experienced rider, you'll have the option to trot and lope your horse.
Horseback rides at Cross G Ranch Trail Rides can be from one to three hours. Prices start at $70/hour. The minimum age is 6 and minimum height requirement is 48 inches. Note that you can't just drive up Cross G Ranch and expect to schedule a horse ride. This is a secluded, private ranch, and reservations are required for rides.
Hours: Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.
Distance from us: 19.4 miles
Diamond C Stables, located near Boerne, Texas, is a family-oriented business that offers trail rides at very reasonable prices. All trail rides are one hour long and cost $50 per person. Each ride begins with a short introductory lesson in an arena then heads out to the ranch's open pastures. Diamond C Stables also offers horseback riding lessons for riders of all skill levels.
Each lesson is $50/hour per person. All trail riders must be at least seven years old, and no double riding is allowed. (Horseback riding lessons for 4-5 year old kids are available at $35 for 30 minutes.) Reservations are required.
Our part of Texas has some of the most interesting small towns in the country. Check out our article on some of our favorites Texas Hill Country small towns.
The Texas Hill Country has the best paved roads for Motorcycle riding that include breath taking views, elevation changes with sweeping curves and twisting roads.
Al's Hideaway is not only Biker Friendly but we also ride, our park was built for Bikers by Bikers.
If you would like to include a guided Motorcycle Tour as part of your stay please contact us at alshideawayrentals@gmail.com
Groups Welcomed
LOST MAPLES STATE PARK
Lost Maples State Park is so vibrant in the fall but it is spectacular year-round. You will see wildflowers, steep canyon walls and the scenic Sabinal River. Bring your whole family to enjoy the beautiful vistas.
Stroll Along the San Antonio River Walk
Next up, wander along the San Antonio River Walk. Picture this: a winding path along the river, shaded by lush trees, dotted with charming cafes, and lined with colorful umbrellas. The sound of mariachi music floats through the air, mingling with the laughter of people enjoying this picturesque setting. Grab a seat at one of the riverside restaurants, indulge in some delicious Tex-Mex, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
A Boat Ride Adventure
For a different perspective, hop on a riverboat tour. Gliding along the water, you'll see San Antonio's unique architecture and learn quirky facts about the city from the friendly guides. It’s a fantastic way to relax and take in the sights.
Discover the Wonders of SeaWorld San Antonio: A Must-Visit Destination
SeaWorld San Antonio, located in the heart of Texas, is a premier marine life theme park that offers unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're an animal lover, thrill-seeker, or family adventurer, SeaWorld has something for everyone.
Thrilling Rides and Attractions
SeaWorld San Antonio is home to some of the most exciting rides in the region. From the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the Great White and Steel Eel to family-friendly attractions like the Rio Loco water ride, there's no shortage of fun. The park also features Catapult Falls, a unique water coaster that combines speed and splashes for an exhilarating adventure.
Up-Close Animal Encounters
One of the highlights of SeaWorld is the opportunity to connect with marine life. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences with dolphins, sea lions, and even penguins. Discovery Point offers a chance to swim with dolphins, while the Orca Encounter showcases the beauty and power of killer whales in an educational and awe-inspiring presentation.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
SeaWorld San Antonio hosts a variety of seasonal events throughout the year. From the Seven Seas Food Festival, where guests can savor global cuisines, to the dazzling Christmas Celebration with millions of lights, there's always something special happening at the park.
Conservation and Education
SeaWorld is committed to marine life conservation and education. The park actively participates in rescue and rehabilitation efforts, helping thousands of animals in need. Visitors can learn about these initiatives and gain a deeper appreciation for the ocean and its inhabitants.
Adventure at Six Flags Fiesta Texas
Thrill-seekers, get ready to scream your lungs out at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. This amusement park is packed with thrilling rides and roller coasters that promise an adrenaline rush. From the heart-pounding Iron Rattler to the dizzying spins of the Pandemonium, there’s something for every level of thrill.
Enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and general wildlife viewing on the half-mile nature trail at The Tunnel State Park. The trail opens daily at sunrise and closes at 5 p.m. Bring drinking water, as no water is available in the park. Picnic tables are available. Restrooms are only open in the evenings during bat season (May to October).
The Bandera Visitor Center, located in the heart of the Cowboy Capital of the World, provides helpful resources for exploring Bandera and the Texas Hill Country. From local attractions, events, and activities, the center is your go-to spot for planning an unforgettable visit.
No matter where you visit in Bandera County you will find clear skies, bright stars, stunning scenery and, most of all, friendly folks just waiting to swap stories and tall tales with you.
Explore the Bandera Natural History Museum in Texas Hill Country, where life-sized dinosaurs, immersive dioramas, and stunning art collections bring history and nature to life. Perfect for families and adventurers, this museum offers a unique blend of education and entertainment.
Cascade Caverns is host to the albino Cascade Caverns Salamander (Eurycea latitans), unique solution domes, "chubby" stalactites, Eastern Pipistrelle bats, cliff and leopard frogs, as well as an underground waterfall and lake. So don’t forget your camera.
The Cave Without a Name is filled with spectacular formations of Stalactites, Stalagmites, delicate Soda Straws, Cave Drapery, magnificent Flowstones, Rimstone Dams, and more. Enjoy a tour of the six major rooms in comfort; 66 degrees year-round, easy walkways, brilliant lighting.
Bandera brewery has a tasty selection of locally brewed and carefully crafted beers. Each of their flavors is hand-picked including familiar tastes, new creations and seasonal favorites.
The Old Forge serves only the choicest meats and seafood, freshest vegetables and their salad bar has only the freshest field greens and vegetables, made-from-scratch soups and baked potatoes. And don’t forget to try one of their fresh desserts
The Old Spanish Trail was used by the Conquistadors, who often followed routes established long ago by Native Americans.
The O.S.T. Restaurant has been serving the dining needs of Bandera since 1921, making it the oldest continuously operated restaurant in Bandera County.
The Bandera General Store building is 108 years old – built in 1907. It has the original wood floors and the original tin tile ceiling. It has been a saddle shop, a feed store, an appliance store (word has it caskets were sold in the basement and during prohibition the cowboys drank beer and played cards on the empty caskets
