If you’d like to go for a trail ride in the Black Hills down by Custer, Blue Bell Stables is one of a few legitimate trail ride outfits in the area.  It is also the only one licensed to operate inside Custer State Park.

Blue Bell Stables is recommended for novice and first-time riders, families with children, and beginners who want to see Custer from horseback.  Intermediate and experienced riders will usually enjoy the ride if they do not expect too much from the ride itself.

As far as the horses go, the horses are all personally owned by the stable manager.  These animals go far beyond the typical trail horse attitude, so make sure that you tell the office your CORRECT riding level, don’t exaggerate.  An experienced rider will usually get a horse that requires more attention than a beginner’s would.

1 hr. ride – Recommended for first-timers, large groups of non-horse people, families with someone made uneasy by horses, and/or families with small or impatient children who may or may not “love the ponies”.  This ride is more than enough for young kids who aren’t in love with horses.

2 hr. ride – Recommended for those wanting scenery and possible wildlife viewing (deer, occasionally buffalo, rarely elk).  This is also a good ride for young horse lovers and their families.  This ride covers more ground and sometimes involves a stretch of trotting, but even first-timers don’t usually have a problem with the paces.

Half-day and All-day – For those who have ridden before or are determined to explore the backwoods of Custer State Park.  Be warned, if your butt is not used to hours in the saddle, you will be sore after this.  Also, this ride can get to be very hot during peak summer months.