Memphis Horseback Trail Ride Tour

Thinking about adding a little adventure to your Memphis visit? The Memphis Horseback Trail Ride offers a surprisingly peaceful escape within the city limits. This guided trail ride takes you through Shelby Farms Park, a sprawling 4,500-acre urban green space filled with wildlife and scenic trails. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of cowboy life without leaving the city, and it’s accessible to riders at all experience levels.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines a relaxed, scenic ride with professional guides who make everyone feel comfortable. Plus, with horses accustomed to beginners and seasoned riders alike, it’s a great activity whether you’re new to riding or just looking for a leisurely outdoor adventure. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is time-limited—about an hour—and doesn’t include transport, so planning your arrival and departure is on you. Overall, it suits couples, families, and solo travelers craving a unique, authentic experience amid Memphis’s urban landscape.

Key Points

• Guided trail ride through Memphis’s largest urban park
• Suitable for riders aged 7 and up, with no experience necessary
• All equipment and horse handling guidance included
• Well-rated guides making the experience fun and educational
• Approximately 1-hour ride, with multiple departure times
• No hotel pickup, so plan your transportation

A Closer Look at the Memphis Horseback Trail Ride Experience

The Memphis Horseback Trail Ride is less about riding skills and more about enjoying nature and scenery. The tour is based at Shelby Farms Stables, which is conveniently located on Pine Lake Drive in Cordova, just outside the city center. The meeting point is straightforward to find, and most visitors book about two weeks in advance—an indication of its popularity.

The ride itself takes you through Shelby Farms Park’s extensive trails, allowing you to see everything from open fields to wooded areas. As you saddle up, you’ll notice the horses are well-trained and experienced in handling riders of all abilities. Reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer, Paul, said, “We had fun. The guides were fun to be with. I would recommend it to anybody.” The guides do their best to provide a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, making this a comfortable choice for first-timers.

The scenery is a major highlight. Travelers frequently mention spotting wildlife like deer, ducks, and cranes while riding along quiet trails. Holly describes it as “a lovely morning ride activity,” and Laura notes, “We saw lots of deer and the trail guide was very friendly.” The natural environment within Memphis’s city limits is a pleasant surprise—this is not a typical city outing.

The equipment includes helmets, which are cleaned after each ride, ensuring safety and hygiene. Most riders find the gear comfortable and suitable for a variety of sizes and ages. The tour is approximately 60 minutes long, giving enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. Multiple departure times make it easy to fit into most schedules, whether you want a morning start or an afternoon ride.

What the Tour Offers in Detail

The trail ride begins at Shelby Farms Stables, where you’ll find friendly staff ready to guide you through the check-in process. Once mounted, the group—typically capped at 12 riders for a manageable experience—sets out across the park’s trails. Guides share stories about the area, the horses, and local wildlife, adding depth to the ride. Tina describes it as “enjoyable,” especially appreciating the storytelling aspect, which added a layer of connection to the surroundings.

Riders of all experience levels are welcome. The youngest rider allowed is 7 years old, and riders must be at least 50 inches tall and under 240 pounds. This broad range makes it accessible for families with children, couples, or solo travelers looking for a gentle, scenic ride. For many, the ride is not just about riding but also about experiencing a slice of Memphis’s natural beauty.

The guides receive high praise. Jess and Crystal, two guides mentioned in reviews, are described as “very knowledgeable, patient, and funny.” Their laid-back approach helps put beginners at ease, and even seasoned riders appreciate their tips and information about the horses and park.

While the experience is rich in scenery and fun, it has some limitations. Notably, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to arrange their own transportation. Also, the cost of $85 per person is reasonable considering the guide, equipment, and the scenic value, but it’s good to keep in mind that this is a short, one-hour ride.

Authenticity and Value

One of the best parts of this tour is its authenticity. You’re not just taking a ride; you’re stepping into a peaceful natural setting, observing local wildlife, and learning about the area from friendly guides. Many reviews mention how this activity offers more than just a ride—it’s an experience that leaves participants feeling relaxed and more connected to Memphis’s outdoor side.

Given the price, it offers good value, especially considering the included equipment and guided experience. It’s also flexible, with multiple departure times, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Of course, the experience’s brevity means it’s best viewed as a highlight or a relaxing break rather than a full-day adventure. If you love horses or are curious about riding but don’t want to commit to a longer course, this is a good entry point.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trail ride is perfect for families with children over 7, couples seeking a romantic outdoor activity, or solo travelers wanting a calm, scenic adventure. It’s especially worth considering if you’re a first-time rider or outdoor enthusiast eager to explore Memphis’s natural beauty without leaving the city. Those with limited time but wanting a memorable experience will find this to be a worthwhile addition to their itinerary.

It’s also suitable for those who value knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace. If you’re craving a more intense or extensive ride, or prefer a tour with transportation included, this might not be the best fit. But for most visitors looking for a friendly, scenic, and authentic experience, the Memphis Horseback Trail Ride hits the right note.

Final Thoughts

The Memphis Horseback Trail Ride offers a surprisingly genuine and picturesque experience right in the heart of Memphis. With friendly guides, well-trained horses, and scenic trails full of wildlife, it’s a fine way to add some outdoor adventure to your city visit. The 1-hour ride is short but sweet, offering a taste of the cowboy life without the need for extensive riding skills or equipment.

The experience is well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, nature-oriented activity that’s easy to access and enjoy. The cost reflects the value of guided, safe, and scenic riding—making it a good investment for those wanting a memorable Memphis moment.

Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or solo, this trail ride provides a peaceful escape and a chance to see Memphis from a fresh perspective. Just remember to book in advance, plan your transportation, and prepare for a memorable, hoof-beat-filled adventure.

FAQ About the Memphis Horseback Trail Ride

Do I need experience to join this tour?
No, horses are well-trained and the guides are experienced in helping riders of all levels, including beginners.

What is the minimum age for participants?
The minimum age is 7 years old, making it suitable for older children and families.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, all equipment, including helmets, is included. Helmets are cleaned after each ride for safety and hygiene.

Can I book a specific departure time?
Yes, multiple departure times are available to fit your schedule.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your own transportation to Shelby Farms Stables.

How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at $85 per person, which covers guides, equipment, and taxes—considered a fair value for a scenic, guided outdoor activity.

In sum, the Memphis Horseback Trail Ride stands out as an inviting, authentic activity perfect for outdoor lovers and those eager to experience Memphis’s natural beauty in a relaxed, guided setting. It offers a memorable, family-friendly adventure that’s both accessible and enjoyable, making it a smart pick for your Memphis itinerary.