Memphis Horseback Trail Ride Tour

Imagine trotting through a lush, 4,500-acre urban park right in the heart of Memphis. That’s exactly what the Memphis Horseback Trail Ride offers — a chance to experience nature and wildlife without leaving the city. With a perfect score of 5.0 based on over 219 glowing reviews, this tour has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a relaxed, authentic outdoor adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the accessible nature of the ride — horses are well-trained and suited for beginners and experienced riders alike. Second, the scenic trails wind through wooded areas, where you might spot deer, ducks, and cranes. And third, the friendly guides make sure everyone feels comfortable, no matter their skill level. A possible consideration? The tour runs just an hour, so if you’re craving a full day of riding, this might be a quick escape rather than a full-on equestrian adventure.

This tour is perfect for families, first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a peaceful break from Memphis’s urban hustle. It offers excellent value for the $85 fee, especially considering all equipment, a guide, and the scenic environment are included. If you’re looking for a memorable, not overly strenuous outdoor activity, this tour could be your answer.

Key Points

• Accessible for all experience levels with well-trained horses and patient guides
• Located within Memphis, offering a surprising natural oasis in the city
• Includes all gear and expert guidance at a fair price of $85 per person
• Wildlife sightings add a special touch to the scenic trail
• Flexible departure times accommodate different schedules
• Perfect for families and first-time riders, with age and weight restrictions clearly outlined

An Authentic Ride in Memphis’ Unexpected Green Space

While Memphis may be famous for blues, barbecue, and riverboats, it’s also home to Shelby Farms, a sprawling urban park—almost 4,500 acres of preserved natural beauty. The Memphis Horseback Trail Ride taps into this hidden gem, providing a backdrop of tall trees, open meadows, and just enough wildlife to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a countryside escape.

The meeting point at Shelby Farms Stables, situated on Pine Lake Drive in Cordova, is easy to find, and the stables are a hub of activity, caring deeply for their horses and visitors alike. From the moment you arrive, the friendly staff sets a welcoming tone, offering all necessary equipment and guiding you through what to expect.

The Itinerary & Trail Experience

The tour lasts about an hour, which, as one reviewer put it, is “just long enough” to enjoy a scenic ride without feeling rushed. The trails wind through wooded areas, offering shade and a peaceful atmosphere. Guides like Crystal, Jess, and Hannah are praised for their knowledge, patience, and friendliness, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable.

According to reviews, no experience is necessary, and riders as young as 7 or taller than 50 inches are welcome—plus, the horses are known for their calm demeanor, which helps newbies settle into the saddle quickly. All riders must weigh under 240 pounds; a courtesy call is made if there might be an issue beforehand, but this policy emphasizes safety for the animals and guests alike.

Horses & Equipment

Guests rave about the horses—well-behaved, ground-maintained, and clearly loved by the staff. One reviewer fell for Frankie, the donkey, and others appreciated the care taken to match horses with their riders. Equipment, including helmets, is provided, and the guides are attentive to safety, giving helpful instructions to ensure everyone understands how to handle their horse.

Wildlife & Scenery

Expect to see a variety of animals, especially if you’re lucky—or just observant. Reviewers mention deer, ducks, cranes, and even some forest tales that add to the ambiance. One guest joked about spotting deer during their ride, emphasizing how the trails feel more like a countryside escape than city outskirts.

Group & Atmosphere

The tour remains intimate, with a maximum of 12 travelers, which fosters a friendly and relaxed environment. Many guests note the small group sizes make for personalized attention, especially important for first-timers or nervous riders. Guides like Axel and Jess keep the mood lighthearted with stories and tips, ensuring everyone has fun.

Value for Money

Considering all gear, guidance, and the scenic trail, the $85 price tag is seen as a good investment. Multiple reviews highlight that it’s a relaxing, enjoyable way to spend an hour, especially for those who love animals or nature. Given the reviews emphasizing the friendliness of the staff and the well-behaved horses, it’s clear this experience offers excellent value.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

• Meeting Point & Duration: The ride starts and ends at Shelby Farms Stables, with the entire experience lasting around 1 hour.
• Booking & Availability: Most travelers book about two weeks in advance, which suggests the tours are popular but still accessible. Confirmations are immediate unless booked very close to the date.
• Group Size & Experience: You’ll be in a small group, which helps with safety and personalized guidance—perfect for first-time riders.
• Age & Weight Restrictions: Minimum age is 7, and riders need to be taller than 50 inches. All participants must weigh less than 240 lbs.
• What to Bring: Since food and drinks aren’t included, bring water if you like, but otherwise, the focus is on the ride itself.
• Weather & Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent—if poor weather causes cancellation, you’ll have the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

Authentic Reviews & Inside Tips

Several guests mentioned their guides by name, like Jess and Crystal, highlighting their knowledge and friendly attitude. One reviewer, Quinton, called it a “therapeutic” and “peaceful” ride, emphasizing how relaxing the experience was—even for a first-timer. Another guest, Sarah, recommended finding the stable on the map beforehand, which can help streamline your day.

A notable comment from a reviewer was about the well-maintained trails and the horses’ calm demeanor, making it ideal for people new to riding. Many reviews also mention the opportunity to see wildlife, especially deer, which makes the ride more memorable.

A few critiques pointed to helmet cleanliness, which the staff is aware of and promises to improve. It’s a reminder to perhaps bring your own helmet if you’re extra cautious.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Memphis Horseback Trail Ride offers a genuine, family-friendly trip into the natural side of Memphis. It’s an experience that combines beautiful scenery, wildlife sightings, and the chance to connect with animals in a safe setting. For those new to riding or looking for a peaceful outdoor activity, it delivers more than just a fun ride — it’s an opportunity to unwind and enjoy nature.

The tour’s excellent reviews highlight the professionalism of guides, the quality of the horses, and the value for money. The small group size fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere that enhances the experience for everyone.

While it might not satisfy hardcore equestrians looking for a long or challenging ride, it’s perfect for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a pleasant, authentic horseback experience in Memphis.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, the minimum age is 7, making it family-friendly. Children should be tall enough (at least 50 inches) to ride comfortably.

What is the price for the tour? The cost is $85.00 per person, which includes all equipment, a guide, and taxes/fees.

How long is the horseback ride? The actual trail ride lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a manageable yet satisfying outdoor activity.

Are the horses suitable for beginners? Absolutely. Multiple reviews mention how easy the horses are to handle and how guides give helpful instructions, especially for first-timers.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably, and consider wearing closed-toe shoes. Helmets are provided, but you might prefer to bring your own if you’re particular about hygiene.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations due to weather are free, and you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund if needed.

Is there a group size limit? The tour caps at 12 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

How far in advance should I book? Most travelers book about 14 days ahead, though last-minute bookings might still be possible depending on availability.

To sum it up, this horseback trail ride in Memphis is a wonderful way to experience the city’s natural beauty. It’s a relaxed, authentically charming activity that appeals to all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a curious beginner or just looking to enjoy some peaceful scenery, you’ll find plenty to love about this tour. Just saddle up, enjoy the ride, and take in the sights and sounds of Shelby Farms.