Gold Discovery Trail Horse Trek Cardrona - Most popular!
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Enjoy a beautiful crisp morning horse trek in the Cardrona valley, Wanaka. All horse riding experience levels are catered for and the group sizes are small. A scenic trail takes you under the willow trees and through the river then up into the hills for some stunning views down the valley and across to the surrounding mountains. Learn about the 1860s gold rush and a working farm among other interesting facts from the informative guide.
**PLEASE SPECIFY YOUR HORSE RIDING ABILITY UPON BOOKING SO THE APPROPRIATE HORSES ARE SELECTED FOR YOUR RIDE**
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age is 5 years
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
**PLEASE SPECIFY YOUR HORSE RIDING ABILITY UPON BOOKING SO WE CAN SELECT THE APPROPRIATE HORSES FOR YOUR RIDE**
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Ride a horse along Cardrona River and up in to the mountains whilst enjoying amazing views and commentary about the 1860s gold rush Cardrona experienced. **PLEASE SPECIFY YOUR HORSE RIDING ABILITY UPON BOOKING SO THE APPROPRIATE HORSES ARE SELECTED FOR YOUR RIDE**
What‘s Included
Guided Tour
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Options
Gold Discovery Trail Horse Trek Cardrona - Most popular!
Reviews
146 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Absolutely beautiful
julia dominga,,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was such a beautiful experience! We are both absolute beginners, but Hanna was such a great teacher and we felt very safe and comfortable. The view on the tour is just stunning and the photos that Hanna takes look so professional. We really enjoyed this beautiful experience which is definitely one of our top three experiences in New Zealand. Thank you, Hanna!
A must-do family adventure: Golden Trail Ride with Hannah!
edwardgX5955ZC,,Dec 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An epic family adventure on the Golden Trail Discovery ride! As parents of boys aged 6 and 9, we couldn’t have asked for better. Hannah and Kay our guides was phenomenal; patient, fun and expert at easing first-timers into the saddle with safety tips, horse matching and engaging tales of local history. The 2 hours trail wove through stunning NZ valleys-wild lupine, stream crossing and epic mountain view. Hannah’s enthusiasm turned nerves into giggles; by the end, our boys were trotting confidently. Perfect for familles, easy pace, Kiwi warmth and pure joy. Hannah and Kay, you are legends! We will be back, 10/10 highlight of our NZ trip.
Must do experience!
jennapT7843BO,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We went for my birthday and it was the best experience of my New Zealand trip so far! Hannah was an amazing guide and instructor. The horses are all so beautiful and gentle. Would highly recommend and definitely would book it again. Thanks for an awesome experience and lasting memories! ❤️
Beautiful Outdoor Experience
Flyer04734628309,,Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00One of the members in our group was a complete first timer on a horse and the instructor Hannah was absolutely lovely to deal to with. Made us feel very comfortable and gave us plenty of guidance. She also had a lot of local knowledge which was great. The horse was super friendly and calm and easy to navigate. The horse responded well and made the whole trip a breath taking experience. Really nice to see how well the horses are treated. Overall, it’s a lovely way to see the beautiful scenery. Would recommend!
★★★★★ An Absolutely Perfect Experience!
658tsew,,Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A fantastic horse riding tour made even better by our wonderful instructor, Hanna. She was incredibly friendly and shared fascinating stories about New Zealand's history throughout the ride. The scenery was stunning, and we even got to meet the adorable and friendly farm cat, Ettie, who was happy to be hugged! A perfect experience that made our day. Highly recommend!
Great time.
Christiaan M,,Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were very hospitable and have received a clear explanation about the horses even if they were a bit rebellious. A very nice ride through the meadows of cardrona and through some streams with the horses. Even galloped a few times if we wanted to. Very sweet girls with a great passion for horses.
Stunning 🤩
Voyage46189649153,,Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00From the moment my 11 year old daughter (a beginner) and I arrived at the ranch, we instantly felt welcome. Even the resident cat, Ettie, sprang to her feet and offered us a warm hug. We loved every minute of the horse ride. The views were stunning and the horses were easy to handle. We even had a few little trots along the way. The guides were both very cheerful and helpful with clear quick tips on how to handle a horse before we set off and as we went along if needed. It was evident that these horses are very well looked after and we would both love to return one day for the pub trail trek.
Great ride!
Holly G,,Oct 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This shorter ride takes you through beautiful countryside. The guide takes pictures too so you have memories to take with you. I had beautiful weather despite forecasts. Guide Phoebe is very friendly & tells you a lot about the area & local farming.
Pat the Horse
sassyzhart,,Oct 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00We had a lovely morning riding along this scenic location. My 14yr old son and I chose this tour and were well looked after and guided by the team. The horses were excellent and the scenery was gorgeous despite the low cloud cover. My son is keen to come again!
Horse riding
fOxHsiao,,Sep 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fun horse riding experience, will be around the ancient gold land (now no longer exists) and nearby hills around a round, not very difficult, the horse is basically very controlled, recommend a try
From NZ$499.00
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Operated by The Cardrona