The History
The Mesquite Trail Ride was organized in 2010 by a group of cowboys and cowgirls who simply love to have fun and ride horses. After years of participating in other rides that eventually ended, the group decided to create their own adventure. Over time, MTR has grown from a small gathering into a larger event, and for safety reasons, we’ve limited the number of riders to 70, giving priority to returning participants. We include the hard parts, a big tent to gather under, Chuck Wagon breakfast and dinner, along with various other group activities and the One of a Kind World Renown Gymkhana and Team Games! You bring your sleeping arrangements, drinks, lunch, snacks and a horse (or rent one from our rental partner). We invite you to join us and experience the fun and camaraderie that makes this ride special. We look forward to seeing you at this September’s ride!
No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle.
Winston Churchill
Congratulations Jamie Jameson
2025 Mesquite Trail Ride Spirit award Buckle Winner
Jamie is everyone’s friend, and it only takes a moment with him to understand why. With a heart bigger than the mountains surrounding Tucson, His tireless energy is one of the main reasons so many projects on the MTR get completed—or at least get a strong start. We love you, Jamie, and we’re so grateful for YOU!
MTR's One of a Kind World Renown Gymkhana
and Team Games!
It is our very own way to test one's horsemanship and have a lot of fun all at once. These are not your "normal" gymkhana events that you may be used to or have even heard of and then again maybe they are. One thing for sure they are a lot of fun. Whether you participate in these events or participate in cheering, you will not want to miss Saturday's competition.
One of a Kind World Renown Gymkhana
The One-of-a-Kind, World-Renowned Gymkhana at MTR is truly something special—it’s the bomb! This thrilling event is the ultimate display of skill, speed, and horsemanship, bringing together the best of the best riders from near and far. It’s not just a competition; it’s a high-energy celebration of talent, grit, and heart. Add in a whole lot of camaraderie, and the points—and friendships—start stacking up fast!
If you’ve never experienced it, we highly recommend checking out photos from previous years. The passion, the power, and the unforgettable moments captured say it all. You won’t want to miss what makes this event a true standout at MTR!
Team Games
Team Games is a relatively new addition to MTR, but from the very first year, we knew it was a winning idea. It quickly became a favorite—both for the crowd and the riders! From the wild partner licorice run to the challenging egg-on-a-spoon relay to the hilarious ball bowling, each event brings its own twist of fun and unpredictability. You never know what will be next on the list!
It’s the perfect mix of fun, focus, and friendly competition. Laughter echoes across the arena or tent as teams give it their all, and the winning pair walks away with the ultimate prize: bragging rights until next year!
Evenings on the Mesquite Trail Ride...
Each evening at camp, settle in and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by our caterers.
Afterward, kick up your heels for a true “boot-stomping” good time. Whether under the tent or beneath the stars, you’ll enjoy live music and dance the night away.
Disclaimer: The dancing might get a little spicy!
Wrap up the night around the campfire—or a propane heater if the weather calls for it—and join in the storytelling, laughter, and camaraderie.
Great riding, catered dinners, live music… and you bring the dancing, laughter, and fun.
It just doesn’t get better than that!