easy
1.5 hours
Suitable for most physical fitness levels; no prior horseback riding experience required.
Saddle up with High Country Horses on the Ride of the Rings—a 1.5-hour horseback journey through the legendary filming grounds of Lord of the Rings in Paradise Valley, New Zealand. Witness snow-capped peaks and enchanted forests on exclusive trails that bring Middle Earth to life.
Age 7+ • Most Popular • 1.5 Hours • Experience middle earth on horseback!
Embark on a magical 1.5-hour horseback journey through Paradise Valley, the iconic filming location for legendary movies like Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Experience breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to enchanted forests, while riding exclusive trails. This unforgettable adventure brings Middle Earth to life in a truly unique way.
Please allow 2.5 hours for this activity, includes transfer time from our Glenorchy base to Paradise and 1.5 Hours for your ride experience.
Your cinematic adventure starts now!
This beginner friendly 1.5 hour scenic trail takes clients on an exclusive guided trail through the stunning Paradise Valley - the world renowned filming location for some of hollywood's biggest blockbusters, including Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit (Isengard, Lothlorien forest, Bormir’s death, Beorns hut, aerial shots of two towers and return of the king, etc) as well as The Chronicles of Narnia, Xmen Origins: Wolverine and Taylor Swifts "Out of the woods" music video, just to name a few.
Your adventure starts with a 20-30min scenic transfer from our home base in Glenorchy to Paradise Valley, where you'll then be introduced to your experienced guide and trusted companion for the next 1.5 hours.
Be awe inspired by the mystical snow capped mountain ranges, enchanted forests and fantasy based landscapes that have inspired some of the biggest films ever made in New Zealand. If your dream is to ride through middle earth on horseback - this is the ride for you! Who knows, you might even be lucky enough to meet one of our movie star horses on your adventure.
High Country horses has exclusive commercial horse riding rights through this beautiful part of the world, and work closely with the Paradise trust to bring you the most magical and unforgettable experience possible on horseback!
Walk pace only due to terrain.
Please dress to the weather conditions and temperature. YEAR ROUND: Long pants, suitable sturdy closed covered footwear (no large heels or sandals permitted), sunglasses, sunscreen/insect repellant. A water bottle is also recommended in summer months or if you get thirsty. During winter please bring warm layers including jackets, gloves and scarf. A phone or small camera is recommended to capture your memories!
Long pants and solid shoes protect your legs and feet during the ride.
Be at High Country Horses 15 minutes before your scheduled ride to ensure smooth boarding.
Bring layers and waterproof gear, as the Central Otago climate can shift quickly.
Maximum rider weight is 95 kg to ensure horse welfare—riders will be weighed at check-in.
Paradise Valley’s cinematic fame began with Lord of the Rings filming in the early 2000s, transforming the area into a pilgrimage spot for film and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
High Country Horses collaborates with the Paradise Trust to protect native flora and fauna, ensuring that commercial riding maintains a low-impact footprint in this fragile alpine environment.
Protects feet during the ride and when mounting or dismounting.
Keeps legs protected from brush and saddle friction.
Adjust for the variable temperatures and conditions throughout the journey.
all specific
Shield your skin from UV rays and bugs, especially on sunny days.
spring|summer|fall specific