Saddle Up, Tomball: Sam Houston Trail Riders to Gallop Through Town with Festivities at the Depot Plaza
The heart of Tomball will beat to the rhythm of hoofbeats and the spirit of the Old West as the Sam Houston Trail Riders return for their 71st annual ride to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The community is invited to welcome the riders on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the beloved Tomball Depot Plaza, located at 201 S Elm St, Tomball, TX 77375.
This free, family-friendly trail rider reception promises to be a Texas-sized celebration of heritage and tradition. Attendees can expect lively country music, line dancing, and photo opportunities with both horses and wagons. Kids can enjoy free refreshments and fun giveaways (while supplies last), making this an exciting afternoon for all ages.
Special guests at this year’s Tomball trail stop include Dusty Trails (cousin of Rusty Rails) and K-Star Country 99.7 FM's own Lisa Christi, who will bring added excitement to the event. Admission and parking are both free, making this a perfect way to celebrate community and Texas culture.
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A Trail of Tradition: The Ride and Its History
Established in February 1955, the Sam Houston Trail Ride has become a beloved part of the lead-up to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Starting this year from Ransom’s Steakhouse in Montgomery, the group of 50–75 riders and 5 wagons will travel 70 miles over several days, honoring a tradition that dates back even further to 1952, when just four riders set out from Brenham, Texas.
Since then, the tradition has grown dramatically, with more than 3,000 riders from across Texas and Louisiana now participating in the 11 official trail rides that converge on Houston each year. These trail rides together cover over 1,300 miles, recreating the spirit of the Old West and preserving the legacy of the cowboy lifestyle for future generations.
Meet the Team Behind the Ride
The Sam Houston Trail Ride is led by Trail Boss David Supak, with support from Assistant Trail Boss Mark Sechelski, Dustin Polan, and Secretary Taryn Sims. As with all trail rides, the Trail Boss plays a vital role in keeping riders, animals, wagons, and the public safe throughout the journey. From planning routes and securing permits to coordinating with scouts and wagon bosses, it’s a massive undertaking that speaks to the passion and dedication of all involved.
More Than a Ride: A Living Piece of Texas History
Trail rides like the Sam Houston are more than just a nod to history—they're moving stories of community, education, and endurance. Many of the horses are rescues, and the wagons include relics from a century ago. Riders often span multiple generations of families, and some rides offer scholarships to local students or visit schools to share the history and heritage of Texas trail culture.
These rides echo the old trails that once carved paths across Texas, connecting settlements long before roads and highways. Today, they continue that journey—not just across the miles, but across time—reminding all of us of the roots of our Lone Star State.
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Don’t Miss It, Tomball!
Whether you're a longtime Tomball resident or a visitor in search of authentic Texas charm, this annual Sam Houston Trail Riders Reception is a can’t-miss community event. With a legacy over seven decades strong and deep ties to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, this celebration brings locals face-to-face with living history—complete with boots, wagons, and cowboy hats.
So round up your family and neighbors, throw on your western wear, and head to Tomball Depot Plaza at high noon on Tuesday, February 24. It’s not just a parade—it’s a celebration of Texas pride, community spirit, and trail-riding tradition.
For more local Tomball events and community news, stay tuned to My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.