The Top 10 Horse Riding Trails You Must See in Australia
Horseback riding is a popular pastime in Australia, with riders of all skill levels taking to the trails to explore the country's beautiful scenery. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, there are plenty of great horse riding trails in Australia to choose from. In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into some of the best horse riding trails in Australia to consider planning your next trip around.
1 - The Bicentennial National Trail - New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland
The Bicentennial National Trail is a truly unique and challenging horse riding trail that stretches over 5,000 kilometres and passes through New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland! It is one of the longest recreational trails in the world, and it's also known as the BNT.
The trail follows the old stock routes and droving tracks that were used by the early settlers to move livestock across Australia. The trail passes through some of Australia's most beautiful and diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, rivers, and rugged outback terrain.
However, The BNT is not for the faint-hearted and is only suitable for experienced riders. It is recommended that riders undertake a significant amount of preparation before embarking on this trail. The trail takes around six months to complete, but riders can choose to do sections of the trail if they don't have the time or experience to do the entire thing.
Riders on the BNT will experience a wide variety of landscapes and environments, from the rainforests of Queensland to the high country of the Snowy Mountains. Along the way, they'll encounter a range of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, emus, and wombats.
The BNT is not just a trail, but it's a journey through Australia's history and heritage, giving you the opportunity to pass through towns and villages that are steeped in history and tradition, whilst meeting the local people and experiencing rural Australian life.
One of the significant advantages of the BNT is that riders can camp along the trail, so it's an affordable way to see some of the most beautiful parts of Australia.
If you think you're ready to tackle this great trail, be prepared and be smart on your journey, but most importantly, enjoy!
2 - Great Ocean Road - Victoria
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria is a popular tourist destination, but did you know that it's also a great place to go horse riding? This trail follows the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the rugged coastline - a must see in our opinion.
Riders can choose a variety of paths that allow them to embark on completely different adventures! Pick from riding along the beach, through the forest, or up in the hills. Bask in the adventure solo or with company - additionally there are plenty of riding stables and tour companies in the area that offer guided rides.
The trail starts at the township of Gellibrand and winds its way through the Otway Ranges and Great Otway National Park, before reaching the coast and following the Great Ocean Road itself. The trail takes riders through a variety of landscapes, from lush rainforests and tall eucalyptus forests to open farmland and windswept beaches. Experience it all!
The Great Ocean Road horse riding trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. One of the highlights of the trail is the opportunity to ride along the beach at Johanna, a stunning, secluded beach that's only accessible by foot or horseback. Riders can take their horses into the surf and enjoy the feeling of freedom as they ride along the sand with the ocean stretching out before them.
3 - Kangaroo Island - South Australia
Kangaroo Island is a beautiful and unspoiled island off the coast of South Australia, and it's a great place to go horse riding! The island has a variety of trails to choose from, including trails that run along the coast, through the bush, and up in the hills.
The horse trail takes riders through some of Kangaroo Island's most iconic landscapes, including rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and native bushland. Riders will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and a range of bird species.
One of the highlights of the Kangaroo Island horse trail is the chance to explore Flinders Chase National Park, which is home to some of the island's most impressive natural features, including the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. These rock formations are unique and breathtaking and offer stunning photo opportunities for you and your horses (bonus!).
Experience sandy beaches, rocky coastal cliffs, and forested areas along this trek. Riders will have the chance to canter along the beaches and enjoy the fresh sea air, as well as explore the bushland and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Kangaroo Island horse trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels, with experienced guides available to lead the way and ensure the safety of all riders. Riders can choose from a range of trail options, from short one-hour rides to full-day or multi-day adventures.
4 - The Victorian High Country - Victoria
The Victorian High Country is a stunning area in the northeast of Victoria, and it is a popular destination for horse riders. The area has a variety of trails to choose from, including trails that run through the mountains, along rivers, and through the bush. You can spot kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife along the way, which makes the trail even more exciting. There are several riding stables in the area that offer guided rides, and there are also opportunities for self-guided rides throughout the trail.
The Victorian High Country horse trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels, however it is important to note that it can be a challenging ride. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, and riders should be comfortable with riding for extended periods of time over varied terrain. If you choose to take on one of the guided rides throughout this area, you'll get the chance to choose a horse suited to your riding style and experience, whilst being guided by a professional on your journey.
5 - Daintree Rainforest - Queensland
The Daintree Rainforest in Queensland is a World Heritage-listed area, and is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. This forest is a beautiful Australian landscape that makes for the perfect riding trail.
Horse riding is a fantastic way to explore the stunning beauty of the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland. The region offers a range of horse riding trails, from leisurely rides through lush tropical rainforest to more adventurous trails that take riders through river crossings and mountainous terrain. Riders can experience the incredible diversity of the rainforest up close, from towering trees to hidden waterfalls and cascading streams.
This horse riding track is suitable for riders of all levels, and experienced guides are available to lead the way and ensure the safety of all riders. The trail provides a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Daintree Rainforest on horseback, whilst taking in the stunning views and brush with beautiful Australian wildlife.
6 - The Margaret River Region - Western Australia
The Margaret River Region in Western Australia is a beautiful area that's known for its wine, surf, horse riding and rich Aboriginal culture - you're guaranteed to love it! The area has a variety of horse-riding trails to choose from, including trails that run through the forest, along the beach, and up in the hills. Riders can spot kangaroos, wallabies, and other wildlife along their journey in this region.
This is a great location for your own solo trek or you can follow guided tours throughout the area. Explore the lush forests, scenic vineyards and breathtaking coastline, whilst also getting to experience some of Australia's beautiful wildlife, including kangaroos and native birds along the way.
Horseback riding in the Margaret River Region offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Western Australia.
7 - The Snowy Mountains - New South Wales
The Snowy Mountains region of New South Wales is a stunning alpine landscape that offers a range of horse riding trails for riders of all skill levels. The region is known for its incredible natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and vast expanses of bushland.
The horse riding trails in the Snowy Mountains offer a unique opportunity to explore this stunning landscape on horseback. Riders can choose from a range of guided tours and self-guided trails, with options ranging from short, leisurely rides to multi-day camping trips.
One of the highlights of horseback riding in the Snowy Mountains is the chance to see a range of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of bird species. The region is also home to a rich history and culture, with many of the trails passing through historic towns and landmarks.
Experienced guides are available to lead the way and provide insight into the region's history and culture, and riders can select horses that are suitable for their level of experience and riding ability.
Whether it's a leisurely ride through the snow-capped mountains or a multi-day camping trip through the rugged bushland, horse riding in the Snowy Mountains offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the stunning alpine landscape of New South Wales.
8 - The Blue Mountains - New South Wales
The horse riding trails in the Blue Mountains offer a unique opportunity to explore the region's breathtaking landscape on horseback. Riders can choose from a range of guided tours and self-guided trails, with options ranging from short, leisurely rides to full-day adventures.
The trails take riders through lush bushland, past cascading waterfalls, and up to breathtaking lookout points with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The region is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird species.
Experienced guides are available to lead the way and provide insight into the region's history and culture. Riders can select horses that are suitable for their level of experience and riding ability, with options available for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Horse riding in the Blue Mountains is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of New South Wales. Whether you're seeking a relaxing ride through the bushland or an exhilarating adventure up to a stunning lookout point, there's a horse riding trail in the Blue Mountains that's perfect for you.
9 - The Yarra Valley - Victoria
The Yarra Valley is a beautiful region located in Victoria, known for its stunning scenery and world-class wineries. Horse riding is a popular activity in the area, with a range of trails available for riders of all skill levels.
The horse riding trails in the Yarra Valley offer riders the chance to explore the region's breathtaking landscapes on horseback. Riders can choose from a range of guided tours and self-guided trails, with options ranging from short, leisurely rides to full-day adventures.
The trails take riders through lush bushland, past rolling vineyards, and up to breathtaking lookout points with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The region is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and a range of bird species.
Experienced guides are available to lead the way and provide insight into the region's history and culture. Riders can select horses that are suitable for their level of experience and riding ability, with options available for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Horse riding in the Yarra Valley is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of Victoria. Whether you're seeking a relaxing ride through the countryside or an exhilarating adventure up to a stunning lookout point, there's a horse riding trail in the Yarra Valley that's perfect for you. Plus, with the added bonus of being able to explore the region's renowned wineries and indulge in some of the best food and wine Australia has to offer, it's an experience not to be missed.
10 - The Flinders Ranges - South Australia
The Flinders Ranges is a stunning mountain range in South Australia that offers a range of horse riding trails for riders of all levels. The region is known for its rugged terrain, stunning scenery, and rich cultural history.
The horse riding trails in the Flinders Ranges take riders through a range of landscapes, from towering peaks to lush valleys, and past ancient rock formations and Aboriginal cultural sites. The region is also home to a range of wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and a variety of bird species.
Riders can choose from a range of guided tours and self-guided trails, with options ranging from short, leisurely rides to multi-day camping trips. Experienced guides are available to lead the way and provide insight into the region's history and culture, and riders can select horses that are suitable for their level of experience and riding ability.
One of the highlights of horse riding in the Flinders Ranges is the chance to see the landscape from a unique perspective and to experience the region's rich cultural heritage. Whether it's a gentle ride through the valleys or an exhilarating adventure up to a scenic lookout point, horse riding in the Flinders Ranges is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a truly immersive way to explore this stunning region of South Australia.
So which trail are you excited to experience first? This list is comprised of the best horse riding trails in Australia that truly are bucket list items. Start ticking these off your list today and experience the beauty in which Australia has to offer.
