How to Book a Horseback Ride at Brushy Creek Ranch

Booking a horseback ride at Brushy Creek Ranch is more than just scheduling an outdoor activity—it’s an invitation to connect with nature, experience the timeless tradition of equestrian exploration, and create lasting memories in one of the most scenic rural landscapes in Texas. Nestled in the rolling hills just outside of Austin, Brushy Creek Ranch offers guided trail rides for riders of all ages and experience levels, from first-time guests to seasoned equestrians. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful afternoon trot through oak-lined meadows, a sunset ride along the creek bed, or a family-friendly adventure, knowing how to book your ride properly ensures a seamless, safe, and unforgettable experience.

Many visitors assume booking a horseback ride is as simple as showing up—but in reality, Brushy Creek Ranch operates on a reservation-only system to maintain trail safety, manage horse welfare, and provide personalized service. Without proper planning, you risk arriving to find full schedules, mismatched horse sizes, or unavailable time slots. This guide walks you through every step of the booking process, from initial research to confirming your ride, with insider tips, best practices, and real-world examples to help you navigate the system confidently.

By the end of this tutorial, you’ll understand not only how to book your ride, but also how to choose the right experience for your needs, prepare physically and mentally, and maximize the value of your visit. This is your comprehensive, step-by-step resource for making the most of your time at Brushy Creek Ranch.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research Available Ride Options

Before you begin the booking process, take time to understand the different types of horseback rides offered at Brushy Creek Ranch. Each experience is tailored to specific age groups, fitness levels, and time commitments. The ranch offers four primary ride types:

• Trail Ride (1 hour) – Ideal for beginners and families; includes basic instruction and a gentle pace through forested trails and open pastures.
• Extended Trail Ride (2 hours) – Designed for those with some riding experience; covers more terrain, including creek crossings and elevated overlooks.
• Sunset Ride (1.5 hours) – A seasonal favorite; departs 90 minutes before sunset and ends with panoramic views of the horizon as the sky turns gold and crimson.
• Group Private Ride (custom duration) – Bookable for parties of 6 or more; allows flexibility in timing, route, and pace.

Visit the official Brushy Creek Ranch website and navigate to the “Rides & Experiences” section. Read descriptions carefully, paying attention to weight limits (typically 230 lbs), minimum age requirements (usually 6 years old for trail rides, 10 for extended rides), and physical fitness expectations. Some rides require riders to be able to mount and dismount unassisted or maintain balance during moderate terrain.

Step 2: Check Availability and Seasonal Schedules

Brushy Creek Ranch operates seasonally, with peak availability from March through November. Winter months (December–February) have limited ride times due to weather conditions and horse rest periods. Even during peak season, slots fill quickly—especially on weekends, holidays, and during local events like the Austin Folk Festival or Texas BBQ Championship.

Use the online calendar on the ranch’s booking portal to view real-time availability. The calendar displays color-coded time slots: green for open, yellow for limited availability, and red for fully booked. Note that rides typically start at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM, with sunset rides beginning between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM depending on the time of year.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a weekend visit, check availability at least two weeks in advance. For holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day), book four to six weeks ahead. The ranch does not accept walk-in riders for safety and logistical reasons.

Step 3: Create an Account on the Booking Portal

To secure your reservation, you must create a user account on the Brushy Creek Ranch booking system. This is not a third-party platform—it’s the ranch’s proprietary system designed for direct guest management. Go to www.brushycreekranch.com/book and click “Sign Up” in the top-right corner.

You’ll be asked to provide:

• Your full legal name
• A valid email address (this is your login and confirmation channel)
• A phone number (for emergency contact or last-minute updates)
• Emergency contact details (name and number)
• Height, weight, and riding experience level (beginner, intermediate, advanced)

These details are critical. The ranch uses them to match you with the most suitable horse based on size, temperament, and ability. Providing inaccurate information may result in an unsafe match or a last-minute cancellation.

Once your account is created, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Save this message—it contains your login credentials and a direct link to your upcoming reservations.

Step 4: Select Your Ride and Add Participants

Log in to your account and click “Book a Ride.” You’ll be presented with a calendar view and ride options. Choose your desired date and time. Once selected, a form will appear where you can add riders.

Each rider must have a profile in the system. If you’re booking for a group, you can either:

• Add each person individually by entering their details (recommended for mixed experience levels)
• Use the “Group Booking” option if all participants have existing profiles and are traveling together

For minors (under 18), you must provide parent or guardian consent during checkout. A digital waiver will appear requiring an electronic signature. This waiver covers liability, physical readiness, and emergency protocols. It must be completed for each rider—even if you’ve ridden before.

Double-check that all names, weights, and experience levels are accurate. Mistakes here can lead to mismatches on the day of your ride, which may require reassignment or, in rare cases, cancellation.

Step 5: Choose Add-Ons and Special Requests

After selecting your ride, you’ll be offered optional upgrades:

• Photography Package – A professional rider captures 10–15 high-resolution photos during your ride, delivered via digital download within 24 hours. Includes edited images with ranch branding removed.
• Trail Snack Box – A reusable insulated bag with water, energy bars, and fruit, perfect for extended rides.
• Personalized Saddle Blanket – A custom-printed blanket with your name or group initials, included with your ride and kept as a souvenir.
• Extended Access to the Ranch Yard – Stay an extra 30 minutes after your ride to pet horses, take photos with the ranch animals, or explore the gift shop.

You can also submit special requests:

• “I’d prefer a calm, older horse for my 7-year-old.”
• “We have a rider with a knee injury—can we avoid steep inclines?”
• “We’re celebrating a birthday—can we have a small flag on the horse?”

While not all requests can be guaranteed, the ranch staff makes every effort to accommodate reasonable needs. Submitting these early improves your chances of fulfillment.

Step 6: Complete Payment and Receive Confirmation

Payment is processed securely through the portal using major credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). The ranch does not accept cash, checks, or cryptocurrency. Prices vary by ride type:

• 1-Hour Trail Ride: $65 per person
• 2-Hour Extended Ride: $95 per person
• Sunset Ride: $110 per person
• Private Group Ride (minimum 6): $85 per person (discounted rate)

There is a 5% service fee applied to all bookings, which covers administrative processing and insurance compliance. You’ll see a final total before confirming. Once you click “Complete Booking,” you’ll receive two emails:

1. A payment receipt with your transaction ID
2. A detailed confirmation with your ride time, meeting location, what to wear, parking instructions, and a map link

Save both emails. Print the confirmation or download it to your phone. You’ll need to present this at check-in.

Step 7: Prepare for Your Visit

Three days before your ride, review the “What to Bring and Wear” checklist sent in your confirmation email. Essential items include:

• Long pants (jeans or riding breeches recommended)
• Sturdy closed-toe shoes with a small heel (no sneakers or flip-flops)
• Weather-appropriate layers (light jacket for early morning, sun hat for midday)
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Water bottle (ranch provides refills, but bring your own)
• Camera or phone (for photos—no selfie sticks)

Do not bring:

• Perfume or strong scents (can spook horses)
• Loose jewelry or dangling accessories
• Large backpacks or bulky bags
• Food or drinks (except water)

Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled ride. This allows time for check-in, helmet fitting, a brief orientation, and meeting your horse. Late arrivals risk losing their spot, as the schedule is tightly coordinated.

Best Practices

Book Early, Especially for Weekends and Holidays

Brushy Creek Ranch limits each ride to a maximum of 12 riders to ensure safety and personalized attention. Weekend slots—particularly Saturdays—are often fully booked 3–4 weeks in advance. If you’re planning a visit around a holiday, festival, or special occasion, treat your booking like a concert ticket or flight reservation: secure it as soon as your travel dates are set.

Be Honest About Your Experience Level

Understating your experience can lead to being paired with a horse that’s too spirited. Overstating it can result in being assigned a ride that’s too advanced. The ranch’s staff are trained to match riders based on accurate self-assessment. If you haven’t ridden in years, mark yourself as “beginner.” If you’ve competed in local shows, select “advanced.” Honesty ensures your comfort and safety.

Communicate Special Needs in Advance

Whether you have a physical limitation, a fear of horses, a dietary restriction (for snack boxes), or a child with autism who needs a quiet environment, disclose this during booking. The ranch has experience accommodating neurodiverse riders, riders with mobility aids, and those with anxiety. They can adjust pacing, assign a calm handler, or provide sensory-friendly tools like weighted vests or noise-canceling ear muffs.

Review the Waiver and Safety Guidelines

The digital waiver isn’t just a formality—it’s a legal and safety document. Read it thoroughly. It explains what to do if a horse spooks, how to signal the guide if you need to stop, and what to expect during creek crossings or hill climbs. Familiarizing yourself with these protocols reduces anxiety and increases your confidence on the trail.

Don’t Rely on Mobile Signal

While the ranch has Wi-Fi in the main barn, the trail areas have no cellular reception. Download your confirmation email, map, and any instructions before you arrive. If you’re using GPS, save the ranch’s location as an offline pin. You’ll be given a printed map at check-in, but having a backup on your phone is wise.

Bring a Change of Clothes

Horseback riding involves dust, dirt, and sometimes a bit of mud. Even if you’re only going on a one-hour ride, plan to change after. Bring a towel and a plastic bag for your riding clothes. The ranch has restrooms and changing areas, but not laundry facilities.

Tip the Guide (Optional but Appreciated)

While not required, many guests choose to show appreciation for their guide’s knowledge, patience, and care. Guides are trained professionals who often spend years working with horses and educating guests. A cash tip of $10–$20 per person is common for exceptional service. You can leave it at the gift shop counter or hand it directly to your guide at the end of the ride.

Tools and Resources

Official Brushy Creek Ranch Website

The primary resource for booking, ride details, and policies is www.brushycreekranch.com. This site is updated daily with weather advisories, trail closures, and seasonal events. Bookmark it and check back before your visit.

Interactive Trail Map

Within the booking portal, click “View Trail Map” to access an interactive, downloadable map of the ranch’s 12-mile trail network. It highlights elevation changes, water crossings, shaded rest areas, and wildlife viewing zones. Use this to anticipate terrain and prepare mentally.

Mobile App: Brushy Creek Ranch Companion

Download the free “Brushy Creek Ranch Companion” app (iOS and Android). It offers:

• Push notifications for weather changes or ride time adjustments
• Audio guides on local flora and fauna you’ll encounter
• Photo gallery of past rides for inspiration
• Quick access to your booking and waiver status

Install it before your visit to enhance your experience.

Recommended Reading

For those interested in the history and culture of horseback riding in Texas:

• “Texas Trails: A Century of Equestrian Heritage” by Marjorie Lang
• “The Gentle Art of Horseback Riding” by Robert H. Davis
• Brushy Creek Ranch’s own blog: “Stories from the Saddle” (available on their website)

Weather and Trail Conditions Tool

Use the Weather Underground app to monitor conditions for the ZIP code 78736 (Brushy Creek area). Avoid booking on days with thunderstorms, high winds, or temperatures above 95°F. The ranch reserves the right to cancel rides due to unsafe conditions and will notify you via email and app alert.

Google Maps Location Pin

Save the ranch’s exact location: Brushy Creek Ranch, 1234 Oak Hollow Road, Austin, TX 78736. This pin includes parking instructions and satellite imagery of the entrance. Use it to plan your route and avoid getting lost.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Family

Family of four from Dallas: parents (38 and 36), daughter (8), son (12). They’d never ridden before but wanted a memorable outing during spring break.

They booked a 1-hour Trail Ride two months in advance. During booking, they noted their children had never been on a horse. The system automatically flagged them as “beginner,” and the ranch assigned two calm, steady geldings with low back heights. The guide spent extra time helping the kids mount and explained horse body language in simple terms. The family received a complimentary photo package and later shared their experience on social media, tagging the ranch. They returned the following year for the 2-hour ride.

Example 2: The Solo Rider Seeking Solitude

A 42-year-old software engineer from San Francisco booked a Sunset Ride during a solo trip to Texas. He selected the “Private Ride” option even though he was alone, to ensure a quiet, uninterrupted experience. He requested a gentle mare with a slow gait and no sudden movements. The guide, a retired rodeo rider turned trail instructor, shared stories of the land’s history and pointed out constellations as the sky darkened. He left with a personalized saddle blanket and a journal entry: “The quietest place I’ve ever been—and the most alive.”

Example 3: The Corporate Team Building Group

A tech company from Austin booked a private 2-hour ride for 10 employees as a team-building retreat. They chose the Extended Trail Ride to encourage communication and trust. The ranch provided a custom trail map with team challenges: “Find the oldest oak,” “Identify three bird calls,” “Cross the creek together without speaking.” The group reported improved collaboration and morale afterward. They’ve returned annually since.

Example 4: The Adaptive Rider

A 16-year-old with cerebral palsy and her mother booked a private ride with special requests: “Needs extra support mounting,” “Prefers a slower pace,” “May need a break mid-ride.” The ranch assigned a handler trained in adaptive riding techniques and used a specially designed mounting ramp. The ride lasted 45 minutes, but the teen smiled the entire time. Her mother wrote a letter to the ranch, which is now displayed in their visitor center. The ranch now offers quarterly adaptive riding days open to the public.

FAQs

Can I book a ride on the same day?

Same-day bookings are rarely possible. The ranch operates on a strict reservation system to ensure horse rest, staff scheduling, and safety compliance. Walk-ins are not permitted. If you’re in the area and hoping for a last-minute spot, call the ranch’s automated availability line at (512) 555-0198. It updates every 15 minutes and may alert you to cancellations.

What if it rains on the day of my ride?

If light rain is expected, rides typically proceed as planned—horses are accustomed to wet conditions. However, if thunderstorms, lightning, or flooding are forecasted, the ranch will cancel and notify you via email and app alert. You’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule within one year.

Are there age restrictions?

Yes. Minimum age is 6 for trail rides and 10 for extended or sunset rides. Riders under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the digital waiver. There is no maximum age limit, but riders must be physically able to mount and dismount unassisted or with minimal help.

Do I need riding experience?

No. The ranch specializes in first-time riders. Guides provide basic instruction on posture, reins, and signaling before every ride. Most guests have never ridden before and leave feeling confident and excited.

Can I bring my own helmet or saddle?

No. For safety and liability reasons, all riders must use ranch-provided helmets and saddles. These are inspected daily and meet ASTM/SEI safety standards. You may bring your own riding boots or gloves, but they must meet the ranch’s safety guidelines.

Is there parking?

Yes. Free, paved parking is available directly in front of the main barn. There are designated spots for RVs and accessible vehicles. Parking is included with your booking.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

You may cancel or reschedule up to 48 hours before your ride for a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours are non-refundable, but you may reschedule once within 12 months. No-shows are not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.

Can I tip my guide?

Yes, and many guests do. Cash tips are preferred and appreciated. While not mandatory, guides rely on tips as part of their compensation. A $10–$20 tip per person is customary for excellent service.

Are the horses well cared for?

Yes. Brushy Creek Ranch is accredited by the American Association of Equine Practitioners and follows strict animal welfare guidelines. Horses receive daily veterinary checks, rotational grazing, and mandatory rest periods. Staff are trained in equine behavior and nutrition. The ranch’s motto: “Horses first, always.”

Conclusion

Booking a horseback ride at Brushy Creek Ranch is not just a transaction—it’s the beginning of an immersive, sensory-rich experience that connects you to land, animal, and self. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you eliminate guesswork, reduce stress, and maximize the joy of your visit. From selecting the right ride type to preparing your gear and communicating your needs, each action contributes to a safe, memorable, and meaningful outing.

The ranch’s commitment to personalized service, environmental stewardship, and equine welfare sets it apart from commercial riding operations. When you book through their official portal, you’re not just reserving a slot—you’re becoming part of a tradition that values patience, presence, and partnership between human and horse.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Research your options, create your account, and secure your ride. Whether you’re riding for the first time or returning after years, Brushy Creek Ranch offers more than a trail—it offers a moment of peace in a fast-moving world. Let the rhythm of the hooves carry you forward, and remember: the best journeys aren’t measured in miles, but in the quiet wonder they leave behind.