What level of riding experience is needed?

The Wrangler Ride is best suited for intermediate to expert riders comfortable with trotting and cantering in open terrain.

Is prior horseback riding experience required?

Yes, riders should have previous trail riding experience and be confident managing a horse at varying speeds.

Are helmets provided or required?

Helmets may be provided by the operator; riders are encouraged to wear helmets for safety.

How do I book the Wrangler Ride?

Bookings can be made online through the provided referral link or by contacting the operator directly.

What should I bring on the ride?

Wear appropriate riding boots, sun protection, and bring water to stay hydrated.

Can children participate?

This ride is designed for adults and experienced riders; children are not recommended due to the ride's challenging pace.

Wrangler Ride in Waimea Hawaii: Thrilling Open Range Horseback Adventure | Guided Tour

Set against the rugged backdrop of Waimea, Hawaii, the Wrangler Ride offers a stirring 4-hour horseback adventure designed for riders with intermediate to advanced skills. This trail ride bursts beyond the usual scenic route, inviting you to experience Hawaii’s lesser-seen open range landscapes where sweeping pastures meet volcanic soil and distant ocean horizons. Waimea, situated on the northern slopes of Hawaii’s Big Island, is known for its rich paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage and wide open spaces—a perfect setting for this exhilarating ride.

The Wrangler Ride isn’t your casual trot through fields; it’s an active exploration with ample chances to canter and trot, letting riders feel the power and freedom of their horses amid diverse terrains. You’ll traverse grassy expanses framed by rolling hills and volcanic rock formations, offering views that capture the essence of Big Island’s unique geology. The ride includes a well-timed rest mid-journey to hydrate and soak in the scenic surroundings, making the experience both invigorating and manageable.

What sets the Wrangler Ride apart is its immersive connection to Hawaii’s working ranch culture. Waimea is home to many ranches where paniolos have tended cattle for over a century, and this ride taps into that spirit of rugged outdoor skill paired with respect for the land. Participants often leave with more than memories—they gain a genuine sense of place rooted in local tradition and landscape.

This trail challenges riders to work with their horses in a natural setting rather than a controlled arena, elevating the experience for those seeking a physically engaging, skill-developing adventure. The operator behind this ride offers a small group experience ensuring personal attention and safety, and the timing of check-in at 8:30 am makes the most of cooler morning temperatures.

Visitors can stay in Waimea itself, a charming town with farm-to-table eateries and galleries that complement your outdoor adventure. Whether you’re an experienced rider eager to explore Hawaii’s wild side or a rider looking to advance your horsemanship in a new environment, the Wrangler Ride delivers genuine adventure and connection.

From volcanic vistas to open-range freedom, this ride embodies the raw spirit of horseback exploration on the Big Island—a rare chance to ride where paniolos still roam and nature’s rugged beauty dominates.

About Paniolo Adventures

Paniolo Adventures is a horseback riding operator on Kohala Mountain and Ponoholo Ranch that runs guided rides across an 11,000-acre working cattle ranch. The company offers a range of scheduled and private horseback experiences that highlight ocean views, ancient Hawaiian ruins, pastureland, and volcanic panoramas. Guests can choose beginner-friendly options like the City Slicker Ride, family-oriented Afternoon and Morning Paniolo Rides, or more advanced outings including the four-hour Wrangler Ride for intermediate and expert riders.

Rides vary in length and pace: 2.5-hour Afternoon Paniolo Rides, Morning Paniolo Rides that traverse the ranch, two-hour private Sunset Rides from 3,000 feet, and an extended Wrangler Open Range Ride with opportunities to trot and canter. Private experiences provide a personal wrangler and exclusive group access. All standard rides include provided riding gear and guidance suitable for mixed-skill groups.

Paniolo Adventures operates on maintained Ranch trails with local wranglers familiar with cattle-ranch terrain and Hawaiian landmarks. Safety protocols and experienced wranglers accommodate trotting and cantering opportunities while prioritizing guest comfort. The business emphasizes authentic ranch-style horseback experiences that connect riders to Hawaiian landscape and paniolo heritage. Booking information, ride durations, and specific trip details are published with each tour offering, and private booking options support tailored group experiences.

Operating with experienced wranglers and provided gear, Paniolo Adventures accommodates riders of all ages and skill levels, offering informative local narration about ranch history, cattle operations, and Hawaiian cultural sites while maintaining safety standards and respectful stewardship of the land that enhance visitor understanding and appreciation.