Central Otago Horse Treks
Ride out onto Earnscleugh Station which boasts stunning high country plateaus steeped with Central Otago gold mining history and the most outstanding Alexandra rocks as your backdrop.
Backcountry Saddle Expeditions is one of the longest standing horse trekking operations in New Zealand.
Back Country Saddles had been operating in the Cardrona Valley for the past 35 years BUT due to the extensive development within the Cardrona Valley has now relocated the horses to the Hidden Valley in Earnscleugh.
It has always been about that “off the beaten track” and that “Backcountry” feel.
Debs, the owner, has spent most of her life around horses and was invited to help develop the Quality Tourism Standard for Horse Trekking.
Debs is a staunch advocate for natural horsemanship and over the years her style has developed BUT her package remains the same… Appaloosa horses outfitted in western saddles that cope with the mountainous conditions in the Hidden Valley, Earnscleugh.
Discover Hidden Valley
Backcountry Saddles is now located in the Hidden Valley between Clyde and Alexandra off Earnscleugh Road. The stables is situated 11 kms from Clyde and 11kms from Alexandra in what is known as the Earnscleugh Triangle.
We are on Fraser Dam Road which is known as the Hidden Valley… how much more “Backcountry” can you get!!!
It’s an easy 30 minute drive from Cromwell, the Central Otago Junction, via the magnificent Cromwell Gorge which follows the meandering Lake Dunstan to towards the impressive Clyde Dam.
From Queenstown allow 70 mins for a scenic drive via the Kawerau Gorge, Cromwell, Clyde and then us at 153 Fraser Dam Road, Earnscleugh, Alexandra.
From Wanaka allow 60 mins via Cromwell, Clyde and then us at 153 Fraser Dam Road, Earnscleugh, Alexandra.
Horse Treks
Our standard 2 hour horse trekking route varies from day to day through the historic gold mining valley and high country farm plateaus with the schist rock hillsides of the Hidden Valley as your backdrop. As an outdoor activity it combines mountain views with history and the experience of the positive interaction with your mount.
Back Country Saddles operates all year round with our Appaloosa horses equipped with western saddles. 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. It is a saddle designed to be sat in for long periods of time. The horn on the front of the saddle (although built for an entirely different purpose) 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.
Backcountry Saddles Expeditions is open to “Bespoke Rides”. Prices would be negotiated on request.
