Texas Longhorn Experience

Texas Longhorn Tours commenced in 2009 at Leahton Park situated just 10km from Charters Towers, one of the most famous and historical towns in Australia.

Family owned and operated by Michael (Mick) & Lynda Bethel, this is one of the most unique tourism experiences in Australia. Guests are taken by Safari Ranger or Horse Drawn Wagon to see the spectacular and historical Texas Longhorn herd.

The Texas Longhorn viewing tours are super comfortable and utilise either the easy access fully automatic all-terrain Polaris Rangers or a horse drawn wagon that was purpose built by us at Leahton Park. Being the one stop shop that we are, the harness used on the horses was also made right here in the Bethel Saddlery saddle shop.

The full experience also includes a traditional Aussie smoko of Billy Tea or Cowboy Coffee and other home-cooked delicacies. The Chuck Wagon Smoko is served from a fully outfitted, exact replica 1866 chuck wagon, made in Texas by master wagon maker Glenn Moreland.

You will also get to see an exact replica 1880's Texas trail herd saddle made in the saddle shop by Mick who has been making saddles for more than 30 years. This saddle is on display at the JR Gallery of Horns where you will get to see a collection of beautifully polished horns but the one and only world famous Guinness World Record steer JR.  Another not to be missed part of the experience is Lynda's tour of the 'Longhorn Love Shack' where you will see the facilities used to handle the huge horned Texas Longhorn cattle.

Texas Longhorn Tours have featured on television shows such as No Leave No Life, Making Tracks, Queensland Weekender, Hamish & Andy's - Caravan of Courage, Dr. Harry on Better Homes and Gardens, Channel Seven's Sunrise to name a few and are a multi award winning attraction.

Both experiences operate from early May through to the end of October depending on seasonal conditions.