Big Island Horseback Riding

Big Island Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Hawaii is always fun, and each island has its unique offerings that makes each horseback riding experience memorable no matter which Island you choose. Two of these unique horseback riding experiences on the Big Island include lush Waipio valley and the ranches of Waimea.  

Besides being one of the oldest ranches in the United States, Parker Ranch spreads approximately 150,000 acres of the island, Parker Ranch is also one of the country’s largest cattle ranches. The ranch was founded in 1847 after King Kamehameha commissioned Mexican cowboys to round up the wild cattle that were overrunning the area. Many horseback riding tours, on Parker Ranch and other ranches, encourage you to wear cowboy duds and allow you to ride freely rather than single file. Experienced riders get to canter too.  

Parker Ranch is located in Kamuela (also known as Waimea) where other ranches also offer horseback riding tours. Green rolling hills with views of the Kohala Coast and Mauna Kea (snow capped in winter) define the landscape. Upland country is cool and misty, and as you move toward the coast the landscape becomes sunny and dry and is dotted with barrel cactus in true Western fashion.

Horseback riding Hawaii style often means trail rides to secluded waterfalls. The Big Island is no exception. Waipio Valley, overlooking the northern coast of the east side of the island, offers horseback riding tours that take experienced riders to the spectacular Hiilawe Falls. From there you go to a series of smaller, beautiful waterfalls and secret pools. Then you can tie your horse and hike down to a very private waterfall and pristine ginger-lined pool.

Beginning riders can also take tours into the sacred and beautiful Waipio Valley. You may even spot one of Waipio's famous wild horses, a herd descended from one of King Kamehameha's stock.

• Kauai Horseback Riding – Horseback riding on the Garden Island is a true delight, from the sunny Poipu to the incredibly scenic North Shore.
• Oahu Horseback Riding – Horseback ride through Jurassic Park's setting or on the North Shore overlooking the Bonzai Pipeline, or enjoy a magnificent sunset while on a horseback riding tour.
• Maui Horseback Riding – Trail rides on the Valley Isle range from leisurely rides through Haleakala Crater and along the coast of Hana to canters across the open range in gorgeous Upcountry Maui.