Horseback Riding / Trail Rides

Horseback Riding in The Black Hills

Palmer Gulch Stables is the ONLY barn of this kind to hold a riding permit in the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. The most beautiful trails in the Black Hills National Forest are found in this wildlife sanctuary!

We offer 1hr and 1 1/2hr customized trail riding tours tailored to our guests. 
The rides are small groups, typically 5-8 people per tour.  A larger party can be requested. Choose the ride length that best suits you and your family, then proceed to the book now page and secure your horseback adventure.
Book Online Now

Plan Your Ride

What does it cost?

1 Hr trail ride: Adult $50.00 Child $50.00
1.5 Hr trail ride: Adult $65.00 Child  $60.00

What Is The Minimum Age and Can We Double Ride?

Minimum Age = 6 yrs. old. NO DOUBLE RIDING!

Small children need to be at least 45 lbs. and must be willing and able to follow instructions. Most 6-year-olds are led by a guide.

Is There A Weight Limit?

Yes. The Maximum Weight of a horseback rider is 230 lbs.

To ensure the health and safety of both riders and horses, anyone that signs in at  200 pounds or more are subject to being weighed on a scale at the check-in window.

Note: trail riding can be more difficult for people with poor height to weight ratios.

How Soon Should I Book My Trail Ride?

These rides routinely fill up on a daily basis during the summer. Securing your horseback tour now secures this important vacation activity.

This is especially true if you have a large party. The best way to book is online. Simply click “Book Now,” and follow the online instructions and you’re done!

Otherwise, you can call us to book a reservation. The barn office opens May 26th for phone-in reservations. (605)574-3412

Will I need to arrive early?

Yes! We’re glad you asked. We do have some paperwork for each member of your group to fill out. All participants must complete a liability waiver and verify age, height, and weight.

You will be introduced to a guide and a detailed orientation will precede each ride departure.

Ride times are posted as DEPARTURE TIMES. Riders that miss their departure times will not be refunded. * See cancellation policy

Are the ride time lengths exact?

No. Just like people, horses do not all walk at the same speed. Some are fast walkers and some are slow walkers. So, each ride can vary by several minutes.

Is it ok if I spend a little time with the horses first?

Yes! We encourage you to stop by anytime to see the barn, ask questions, and let the kids pet a few of our amazing horses!

The barn is open:

Memorial Day to Labor Day
Open 7am-7pm
7 Days a week