Lake Wanaka

Wanaka Horse Riding Treks in the Cardrona Valley

Backcountry Saddle Cardrona

Welcome to Backcountry Saddles, offering unforgettable horse trekking experiences through the historic Cardrona Valley. 

Our two-hour horse treks take you through the Hidden Valley’s stunning schist rock hillsides, across high country farm plateaus, and past remnants of the area’s gold mining history, providing the perfect mix of scenic mountain views and an authentic connection with your horse.

Operating year-round, we pride ourselves on tailoring each ride to the needs of our guests. 

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to horseback riding, our experienced guides will match you with one of our calm Appaloosa horses and adjust the trek to your skill level. 

Our Western saddles, known for their comfort and security, especially for beginners and children, make every ride enjoyable and safe.

At Backcountry Saddles Cardrona, we specialise in family-friendly adventures. 

Children as young as five can join us, with specially sized equipment and gentle horses to ensure a positive experience. Safety is a priority, and our guides are fully trained, offering helmets and wet weather gear if needed.

Book your Backcountry Saddles experience today for a truly unique way to explore New Zealand’s Cardrona high country.

 

Join Debs to share her passion for Appaloosa horses
and the thrill of a horse ride in the historic Cardrona Valley.

 

Price: $150 Per person – Children $125 pp ( aged 5 years to 10)
Treks Depart:  9:30 am & 1:00 pm
Duration: 2 Hours approx ) allow 30 mins before trek & cuddle time after the ride)

Our horse trekking routes vary from day to day through the historic gold mining valley and high country farm plateaus with the towering mountains of the Cardrona Valley  combining mountain views with history and the experience of the positive interaction with your mount.

Our Appaloosa horses are equipped with western saddles, there are plenty of trusty steeds to choose from and the treks last for 2 hours departing twice daily at 10.00am and 1.30pm.  Sometimes during high summer a later horse riding trip is scheduled to cater for larger numbers.  Bookings are always essential.

The horses are selected based on the age, height, weight and most importantly the ability of the rider. All rides are also adjusted to suit the experience of the rider. The well-trained and experienced guides ensure a high standard of safety and all hold a current first aid certificate.

The Western Saddles offer comfort and security, especially for children or beginner riders, designed to be sat in for long periods of time.

The horn on the front of the saddle is great to either balance on or hold when the terrain gets challenging or you’re moving into a faster pace. Backcountry Saddles supply helmets and wet weather gear if required.

As we are a family operation children are well catered for. There is appropriately sized equipment and the horses’ calm nature has seen us often taken children as young as five years out riding.

It’s important for parents to call ahead to discuss their childrens’ riding with Debs.

 

Price: $150 Per person – Children $125 pp ( aged 5 years to 10)
Treks Depart:  9:30 am & 1:00 pm
Duration: 2 Hours approx ) allow 30 mins before trek & cuddle time after the ride)

 

Phone:  03 443 8151                   Freephone: 0800 472 335

Email: [email protected]            Visit our Website:  www.backcountrysaddles.co.nz/