Maverick Horseback Riding

Joan Marie at Maverick Horseback Riding has been a wonderful teacher and mentor for my 8 year old daughter. Throughout the last three years, my daughter has learned skills, responsibilities, and thought exercises that will aid her beyond horseback riding. As far as the riding goes, safety and skill is always presented very well. It is a beautiful facility and we always enjoy our time there. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Great ride! Accommodated us at short notice and managed both of us with totally different riding experience. Even got a go in the river which was a great way to cool off. Lovely horses and the owner is great fun. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Brought my 12 y/o niece to the Lockhart location as a birthday present and we had a wonderful time. It was educational, the horses we rode were calm/tame plus well maintained and the property was beautiful.

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have taken my wife for her birthday twice. We had Jo and Jill as our guides and they were both top notch! Very knowledge and great teachers. For a great time with the family (kids included) try Maverick's Horseback Riding. Great adventure! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

This is not your average trail ride- It is much much better! As an experienced rider who’s had my own horses, I am sometimes wary and picky about trail rides, because I don’t want to pay a ton of money to be bored or walk around in a large circle. The scenery is gorgeous, and it’s a great, appropriately challenging ride. I was really happy with the quality of the horses, and even though there were beginners on the ride, the owner/instructor was very flexible to make sure everyone had a good time based on their capabilities, comfort and experience level. I really enjoyed the full Horsemanship ride, and we had a gorgeous summer night for it! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I've been riding horses for almost 20 years now. I had horses through college, and have done tons of commercial trail rides on family vacations, etc, since my family knows I love horses. This place is great for lots of reasons. The horses are well cared for, the facility is clean (for a barn) and functional, and you can expect to learn something while you're here. There are a few options now at Maverick's, and I've participated in two different ones here: the horsemanship experience and the ranch ride. The ranch ride is great for big groups who have a little less knowledge of horseback riding. The trail is a little more defined and it's more like the trail rides you may have been on before. However! It still isn't the nose-to-tail trail you may have been on before, and the horses take cues. The horsemanship experience was kind of like a private lesson without an arena. We didn't have a defined trail and instead went on a winding journey through the Lockhart property. It's great for someone who, like me, thinks the best way to be outside is to be on horseback. In either setting, you'll enjoy the natural landscape of central Texas, and in either setting you'll learn something about horses and about where you are. And in either setting, you'll end up in Lockhart, where you can grab some world famous bbq and get some of those calories you burned back. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

What an amazing experience miss jo and miss Susie were excellent teachers patient kind and informal. Thanks again for the great time with my family and for my nieces 12th bday.

Reviewed on Google Maps

Informative, clear, flexible, fun, varied rides and trails - set in a beautiful part of Lockhart with amazing view and horses. The experience is so amazing you'll want to come back. Owner and Staff are very friendly, as are the horses! I wouldn't recommend staying at the ranch however. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My trail ride with Maverick Valley and Maverick the horse was so much fun! Molly walked me through all of the proper procedure and guided me throughout the process. I was grateful for her patience and willingness to answer my questions. We loved the beautiful scenery and seeing all of the horses, wildflowers and pretty vistas. Thank you Maverick for giving me a day to remember! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I have been going to Maverick's for the past three years and every year it gets better and better! Personally, I prefer the Horsemanship Experience, which is a great learning experience and super fun. Jo Marie is the best! She's is super knowledgeable and I learn at least 10 new things every time I go. If you're looking for a hands on ride then I would 100% recommend the Horsemanship Experience!! However, if you prefer a more laid back ride, they offer trails rides now! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

A friend and I did the horseback experience with Joan. It was truly unforgettable. Not did we learn the basics 101 of preparing the horse for a ride (did you know that they need a nice back massage with a brush? !) but we learned finer, technical points of riding along our ride. I get way more confident and cool on a horse under Joan’s leadership than ever before. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Went for a trail ride today, Joan Marie (Owner) and Molly (A trail guide/employee) were absolutely amazing! Both were extremely patient and helpful with riding prompts and instructions. The trails are absolutely gorgeous and filled with wildflowers and tranquil ponds that the horses loved trotting around. The owner offers a wide variety of cowboy boot styles and sizes, giving you that authentic Texas feel as you ride. The experience was also hands on, as I got to brush and saddle my horse. One caveat, when you book be sure to read the email confirmation!!!! As this includes the address of the stables. Do not go by the one in Austin. This a security measure put in place by the owner. Please do not publicly post the address either. She provides instructions and a description of the property. One detail that also helps to not confuse her property for her neighbors, is a colorful, eight foot tall metallic rooster in the front yard. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

todo el servicio la atención de su propietaria el lugar en fin todo completo

Reviewed on Facebook

Was absolutely beautiful and the horses actually responded to the riders unlike normal trail rides. Very fun and educational at the same time and you got to get to know the horses. I would recommend for anyone who likes to ride! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Not just yes, but heck yes. This is a great place to ride. Joan Marie, knows how to lead all experience levels. She made our trip as a family a fantastic experience. Definitely a must for folks looking to enjoy a ride with some beautiful scenery and landscape. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

maverick horseback riding is a one of a kind place to learn anything and everything about horsemanship! I personally would recommend anyone that loves horses and wants to feel a true horseback riding experience to maverick's. They are extremely understanding with the way the horses work. Mavericks strives to make sure they are PARTNERS with their horses, something that is rare to find at most trail riding companies. You are walked through step by step on how to properly groom and tack the horses. Jo Marie strives to put her partners (the horses) before ANYTHING. very clean, and positive vibe environment! Highly recommended! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Went out with my family last summer, Jo Marie helped me stay calm and gave some confidence even though I was very afraid of riding the horse. I never have before. She taught me a lot that day. I completely trusted her,I ended up calling her "boss lady ". Because she is the boss and dont you forget it, haha! My kids never did this before and they had a great time. She took her time with us all. The view was amazing, the whole experience was amazing . My brother and his kids will be coming out to do this soon. Thank you for this experience and Fadi says hi ! I'm not sure if you remember but you guys spoke about pouring some concrete out there, haha! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Fantastic experience for my girlfriend’s 30th birthday! Very nice horses, beautiful landscapes, fun riding trails, and an overall excellent time for everyone. Highly recommended for beginner to advanced riders who are searching for horseback riding close-to-town (20-30 minutes from central Austin), yet just far enough away from the city life to enjoy the nature and animals. :) More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Took my 11 year old grandson for horseback riding at Maverick. Great experience, great staff and great scenery! Trail guide, Brit, was outstanding. ..knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

This place is a dream come true for me! A whole horse experience in the beautiful Texas hill country. The property is beautiful, the guides are incredible (and actual horse people! ) and the horses are stunning and appropriate for varied experience levelsq. If you’re looking to plop on a horse and go mindless in a circle this is probably not for you! This is a community-based real trail ride experience where you can expect to actually learn about the human/horse relationship and your part in it. Joan Marie cares deeply about the horse/human relationship and has an undeniable connection to the land. Come with a listening and learning attitude and you will walk away with a rich, grounded experience. I cannot recommend owner Joan Marie’s hospitality, her beautiful herd and her talented guides enough. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Me and Mekayla’s first experience at horseback riding was amazing. Jo Marie was a great instructor as she had great relationships with all her horses. She properly greet us and instructed us with her great sense of humor about how to ride a horse. Her horses were greatly well mannered and groomed very well. Her staff were amazing as they taught us how to correctly groom the horses as a way to bond with the horse we were assigned to. The trail ride was fun as her property was so beautiful that it was calming which helped us remained calm while riding our horses. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

This place is just the best one!

Reviewed on Facebook

This is such a great place to ride horses! The land is beautiful and Joan Marie does a great job of explaining everything you need to know and making sure that everyone gets an amazing experience. This is not a trail ride where one horse follows the other and there is no break in the line - the horses are responsive and you, as the rider, get the experience of actually being in control of how things go. The rides are much longer than most that I have been on and you get to spend as much time as you want to with the horses. Joan Marie is an excellent teacher and I hope more people come out and experience this excellent opportunity! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

A couple years back, I was seized with the desire to go horseback riding. I hunted around for options and was drawn to Maverick because of their educational approach. Months slipped by without making a reservation, but this was finally the year! Online reservation process was pretty seamless: select which location you want to visit, pick from the available appointments, and submit payment. I texted their contact number with a few questions and was pleased the staff member ensured I knew exactly what sort of experience to expect at the location I'd selected. The ride itself was fabulous!! Makayla was my guide and she did such a wonderful job educating. We lightly groomed the horse and then she talked me through the tacking up process before actually getting on. Since I hadn't ridden in about 14 years, she let me know she was going to stay on foot to provide extra guidance while I was mounted. I LOVED this approach. I felt much more relaxed knowing it would be very easy for her to help if I needed it. She was kind when correcting my technique and generous with genuine praise. It was such an enjoyable experience! Definitely worth repeating! My only critical feedback for Maverick would be to provide customers with a bit more direction for procedure after entering the property. GPS took me right to the address, but then I wasn't sure if I was supposed to wait for someone to come get me, or go off and try to hunt someone up. More...

Reviewed on Facebook

This place is so beautiful and unique. Riders get hands-on experience I've never been offered before on a trail ride. You prepare your horse (cleaning and tacking), get educated on horse behavior, and ride in open spaces that are much more interactive than a narrow trail with fifteen horses in a line. Brit, the guide and trainer, is fun to be with, very welcoming, and very serious about treating horses with respect. It's even great for beginners, as long as you're willing to take the time and learn. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I wanted to thank Jo for a wonderful riding experience at her beautiful ranch. I am using my daughter's computer to type this review since i don't know how to do it on mine, but what i don't know about computers I learned about horses under Jo's expert and watchful eye. The ranch is lovely and the experience of learning about the horses and how to care for them and groom and saddle them really put me at ease before mounting and riding. Jo was expertly assisted by a Sam, a master horseman in his own right, and Sam was a delightful addition to our extensive and highly enjoyable trail and ranch ride. It is a wonderful way to spend a day and i highly recommend the experience to anyone regardless of their experience level. Thanks Jo and Sam! Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas. Jack McGuire More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Great experience riding. it is a blast to find a place to ride horses that is a different experience than your average trail ride. No nose to tail dead head horses here! I have been riding for few years and learned so much from Joan. Gorgeous land, beautiful ride, wonderful day! Grab some brisket at Blacks after your ride. Legit! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

An excellent place for a riding experience near Austin Texas! Real riding instruction, not just a nose-to-tail trail ride. Great for tourists or groups.

Reviewed on Facebook

Awesome instruction for beginners!

Reviewed on Facebook

Really appreciated the chance to canter.

Reviewed on Google Maps

This was a awesome experience. The ride was great not like a typical boring trail ride. I’m a beginnner si I was a little intimidated but by the end of my ride I was comfortable and more knowledgeable thanks to Joan and her team. I definitely will be back next time I visit Austin. You guys are great. Thanks Joan Marie! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

This was an awesome experience! I have always been afraid of horses, the sheer power and size they possess has always made me keep my distance. I’ve always been told to keep my distance but I always face my fears... so when they told me I was riding Higante (a giant/ gigantic mammoth) I was very much intimidated. They took us through some very key, simple instructions, taught us some important TLC the horses need and how to put on the saddle. The ride was amazing, you really do bond with the horse as you ride and by the end I felt like me and Higante became best buds! First time riding a horse ever in my life and the instructor Mary Joe, was phenomenal, really professional, assertive and makes it fun but most importantly insures your safety. I recommend this place, if you really want to learn and have a safe and great experience with horseback riding. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I️ would definitely recommend Maverick Horseback Riding to my friends and family when traveling to Texas! My boyfriend and I️ had Savannah as our instructor and she was wonderful! The horses were great and she taught us so much and kindly answered all of our questions about the horses. I️ was a bit nervous (had never been on or near a horse) and my boyfriend was a bit more experienced. Savannah was great at instructing both of us despite our skill differences! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

This was a awesome experience. The ride was great not like a typical boring trail ride. I’m a beginnner si I was a little intimidated but by the end of my ride I was comfortable and more knowledgeable thanks to Joan and her team. I definitely will be back next time I visit Austin. You guys are great. Thanks Joan Marie! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

Joan Marie and the rest of the staff at Maverick Horseback Riding are phenomenal! Joan Marie has a deep relationship with each horse and is great at reading people and matching them with the proper animal. She tailors each ride to fit the needs of the group and pushes people to challenge themselves in a safe environment. Before she begins each ride, she allows the riders to bond with their horses through grooming, helping riders ease their anxiety and get to know the animals before riding. Once everyone is on the trail, she and her staff regularly check in with the riders to make sure they are comfortable and enjoying themselves. The scenery is amazing and the animals are treated kindly and given the best care. I would definitely recommend this place to people from all riding backgrounds and look forward to riding with Maverick Horseback Riding again! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Meagan was a amazing instructor. Taught me alot of stuff. Also can't remember the other instructor , but personality was amazing. She had me entertained. they both know what there doing and very nice. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Joan Marie and the rest of the staff at Maverick Horseback Riding are phenomenal! Joan Marie has a deep relationship with each horse and is great at reading people and matching them with the proper animal. She tailors each ride to fit the needs of the group and pushes people to challenge themselves in a safe environment. Before she begins each ride, she allows the riders to bond with their horses through grooming, helping riders ease their anxiety and get to know the animals before riding. Once you are on the trail, she and her staff regularly check in with the riders to make sure they are comfortable and enjoying themselves. The scenery is amazing and the animals are treated kindly and given the best care. I would definitely recommend this place to people from all riding backgrounds and look forward to riding with Maverick Horseback Riding again! More...

Reviewed on Facebook

I used to own a horse when I was 16 for 4 years. I wanted to get a ride in to see if I still liked being on horse back and if it was still as awesome as I remembered. I set up a time to come do the trail ride with Joan Marie at Mavericks. Upon arrival she greeted everyone and was very easy to follow as she explained each step of the way and what we were going to do next to prep for our ride. She was very calming and answered every question I had with intent and what seemed to be an insane amount of knowledge. She offered me 2-3 different horses to ride and was able to pair me with one that I felt like was PERFECT for me. I loved how she also paired my breathing with the horses breathing and reminded me that not all horses are like my horse . I dropped everything I knew about horses (my horse) and allowed myself to be the beginner again and immediately my entire experience changed. I had some notion I my mind that I knew what I was doing based off one horse I had 10 years ago. LOL!! I loved how she gave us tips and pointers while we were riding she was amazing at going around us and giving us quick little tips or tricks to make it more enjoyable. I literally (after 15-20 mins) felt so relaxed on her horse she let me have the pleasure of riding that I was feeling like I was about to fall asleep as we were riding . I literally could have nodded off. JUST SAYIN'! The swaying and rocking to each side was so awesome.We finished our ride and I booked again for the following weekend as soon as I was barely even off the horse yet!! I would recommend this to anyone of any age and experience level and I really believe that based on her KNOWLEDGE she will have you rocking it and relaxed and confident very quickly. I will be going back for sure!! Very excited to continue going to her Ranch!! Thank you Joan Marie!!! More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Amazing doesn't cut it! Such a great experience, with fantastic scenery, you will not be disappointed. I was on holiday from the UK and was lucky enough to get in on short notice and so pleased I did. Joan Marie has so many good conservation ideas for her land it's a pleasure to hear someone so interested in preserving and looking after the land and wildlife. I can't recommend Maverick enough, beautiful horses and stunning scenery. Make sure you don't miss out! : ) More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

We are visiting our daughter here in Austin and she and my husband surprised me with a trail ride for my birthday. My husband knows not to take me to your usual trail ride experiences, since I grew up riding in Europe, ( but have not done much in the US due miserable “usual” experiences. ..)Well this is NOT your usual experience... Joan Marie is a very responsible and caring horse owner - and you as a guest ride her horses! Any horse owner is very picky who gets to ride their animals. So, Joan Marie in a very short time will make sure you get to know your horse, feel comfortable with it and have a clue what you are doing on top of it! She matches your horse to your ability, teaches you how to saddle your horse, sit correctly and hold the reigns before you get out on the land. This is very much a teaching experience - you don’t just trot along the trail. I am amazed in what a short period of time JM got people comfortable and doing some drills, meanwhile she corals a group of 12 where most have little to no experience. Her horse are wonderful and you can tell they enjoy doing this- which all the more reflects on JM and her ownership!!If you are in the market to learn how to ride a horse/ improve your skills - Joan Marie is your horse woman!! ( I wish I lived here for more !) More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

I went to visit a friend in Austin about a week ago, and after reading great reviews from other visitors, I decided to give Maverick Horseback Riding a try myself. I am really glad that I did, so here I am adding my own review to the bunch. I had a really good time all throughout my riding experience, and Joan Marie (the owner) was both friendly and instructive. This does bring me to an important thing to note about Maverick Horseback Riding: it's INSTRUCTIVE. Signing up for a session means signing up for a LESSON in horseback riding. Before deciding to book with Maverick, please make sure to read the FAQ on the website, especially the section "What should I expect?" (I would also strongly recommend checking out the link "What to Expect During Your Horseback Riding Lesson on the Trail" included in that section). If you are looking to just sit on a horse while the horse walks along a trail, this may not be a good choice for you. Joan Marie emphasizes horseback riding as an interactive rather than a passive activity, and the horse as a responsive animal. If you are, however, looking for an authentic horseback riding experience, and open to receiving instruction, then I promise that Maverick will be both a fun and informative experience.With that disclaimer out of the way, let's talk about what the actual experience was like for me and my friend. I opted for the private session, as I have zero horseback riding experience, and my friend was nervous about how much she remembered from her childhood. Upon my arrival to the ranch, my friend and I were greeted by Joan Marie and a helper, Sam, who assisted with getting us ready for the ride, including checking to make sure our waivers were signed, and picking out appropriate footwear and helmets.My horse was a large gelding about 17 hands tall by the name of Gigante (Spanish pronunciation), while my friend rode a slightly smaller horse by the name of Rowdy. Before choosing our mounts, Joan Marie made sure to check with my friend and I about how we felt about our upcoming horseback riding experience, and also specifically how we felt about riding larger, taller horses. Before riding, we were also taught about picking stones and packed dirt from the horses' hooves, brushing down the horses, and properly saddling the horses.Once we were all riding (myself, my friend, Joan Marie, and Sam), Joan Marie clearly communicated with us on how to direct our horses (some basics had been covered prior to mounting, such as how to hold the reins and basic commands, but nothing beats actually putting those words into action), and corrected us whenever needed (e.g., heels down, look in the direction you want the horse to turn and not at the horse, etc.). She was attentive, and also adapted to our comfort levels. The entire ride itself last about an hour and 15 minutes, and took us well around the 100+ acre property, mostly at a peaceful walk, but Joan Marie did give us a few chances to try cantering as well, which I enjoyed. After the ride was over, Joan Marie let my friend and I wait on the back porch of a small house near the entrance to the ranch to be picked up, where we had a great view of the area and the company of one of the ranch dogs, and were introduced by Sam to an adorable two-week old bunny. My friend and I laughed over the next day or two at being sore in interesting places, but both felt the experience was well worth it. I would definitely like to return someday to continue learning, and heartily recommend Maverick Horseback Riding to anyone else, beginner or experienced rider. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Horseback riding at Maverick Ranch is one of my favorite Texas experiences. Joan Marie runs the ranch and leads the rides. She is an excellent instructor and really wants to cater the rides to what the riders want, whether it's something more relaxing or something more instructional, she really is there to give you the experience you want. With each session you start by getting to know your horse so that you can establish a relationship before the ride. You are taught how to groom the horse and how to steer and control the horse. The group rides vary in levels of experience, but Joan Marie manages amazingly to cater to everyone's experience, leaving no one left out. I have never ridden a horse before. I was kind of nervous and didn't know at all what to expect. Joan Marie gave clear and simple instructions and is very patient with me. Even in my follow up private session, when at times I felt exasperated or frustrated, she was patient and calm and and very encouraging. No matter what, she is encouraging and positive. I cannot recommend riding here enough! You will definitely have a fun time and learn a lot about horses :) More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

Amazing Place for both New & Experienced Riders. Awesome Instructor, Miss Joan M has amazing skills of teaching, riding and horseman ship.

Reviewed on Google Maps

I can’t describe the experience, it was just beautiful. While riding I had a surge of happiness. Things to know:First, make sure not to walk into the house! I did that. It was quiet embarrassing. Walk all the way down to the end of the road. Second, this is a teaching/learning ranch. It’s not like other horse back riding places where the horse just follows a path and technically you can fall asleep and the horse will continue to follow the guide. You are actually going to learn to ride the horse and take control. It’s a magnificent experience, you won’t know what you’re missing out until you come here. Be prepared to really learn. Third, you’ll learn to trot and cantor. It’s a special and fun experience. Most horse back riding places don’t let you do that. Forth, the owner has a perfect personality of firm and gentle. Just follow her instructions and you’ll have an experience you won’t forget. More...

Reviewed on Google Maps

My husband and I went on a private ride with Joan Marie and Kate and had an absolutely amazing experience. As a kid I spent a good portion of my adolescence doing equestrian as a sport and had my fill of horse training (english style), and have prior experience jumping for shows. I haven't been on a horse in 14 years and Joan Marie provides a lesson based opportunity to understand the mentality of a rider as well as how comprehending how a horse will respond to you (they can be stubborn creatures). It's certainly not easy to control a 1000+ pound animal between your legs, but Joan Marie gives you the proper guidance (and mental focus) to learn. You are introduced to the horse (and the horse to you) prior to your ride through maintenance grooming of the horse so you both become acclimated to each other which is key prior to any ride. The trail you take is stunning and secluded. I highly recommend experiencing a trail with Joan Marie as it is by far one of the best horse back riding experiences I've ever had. It took me back to my days as a rider and I was provided with a concise lesson and coaching prior to my ride, making the transition back into the saddle amazing. Thank you Joan Marie, Kate (Carmella & Moonshine). More...

Reviewed on Google Maps