Giddy Up! Gold Coast Horse Riding Trails & Tours

Select your steed and saddle up to experience the Gold Coast on horseback. Never ridden before? Rest assured that the following Gold Coast horse riding facilities will breeze you through the basics and you'll be up and riding one of these majestic creatures in no time.

Whether you want to learn in a lesson format or take to the trails and explore the Hinterland on horseback, there's an equestrian experience to suit you. Follow our lead to discover the best trail rides, horse riding tours and stables on the Gold Coast.

Historic Rivermill

Saddle up at Historic Rivermill in the lush green surroundings of Mount Nathan, beside the peaceful Coomera River. Embark on a horseback adventure through the Hinterland on one of the ranch’s beautiful Peruvian Pasos. 

The unique horse breed is not only adorable but known for their ‘paso illano’, a four-beat lateral gait that means a super smooth ride no matter your skill level. There are lessons available for kids over 8 and adult riders of all skill levels. Or take a guided private scenic farm ride through the picturesque property along riverside trails and tree-lined tracks. On Saturdays and Sundays, short, 8-minute horse rides are offered for just $25.

Enjoy a delicious morning tea or meal after your ride. The rustic cafe at Historic Rivermill has tranquil river views, a delicious menu and the petting zoo of friendly farm animals makes it a big hit with the kids.

Location: 950 Beaudesert Nerang Road, Mount Nathan

Currumbin Valley Scenic Horse Trail Rides

For a stunning Gold Coast Hinterland horse ride, head to the hills of Currumbin Valley where nature, adventure and animal encounters combine in one wonderful experience. Currumbin Valley Scenic Horse Trail Rides are perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike, and you get a 10 minute lesson beforehand where you’ll learn all the basics and get comfortable on your steed. The horses here are chosen for their temperament and gentle nature - they’re a pleasure to ride.

Once you’re in the saddle, your guide will take you out to explore trails that weave through lush native rainforest and bushland, up to an escarpment where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. It’s a stunning way to explore the Gold Coast on horse back.

Equine Interactions are also available - a skills based learning program that harnesses the therapeutic influence of horses, to help those with mental health struggles and physical disabilities.

Gold Coast Equestrian Centre

Located in the delightful hinterland hamlet of Clagiraba, this Gold Coast horse riding school delivers a diverse range of horse riding activities for both adults and kids. Choose from private and group lessons, holiday camps and guided trail rides through beautiful native bushland. 

Suitable for beginners, trail rides last one hour and begin with a 15-minute lesson in the arena before you and your noble steed venture out in a group to explore the beautiful 50-acre property on horseback and ride along the river. It’s a wonderful way to experience the stunning hinterland setting. 

All riders will learn a love and respect for these gorgeous creatures and coaches are highly qualified and experienced with a focus on fun. Gold Coast Equestrian Centre also offer coaching for advanced riders, themed parties, private and group lessons for beginners and agistment services.

Location: 212 Stewart Rd, Clagiraba.

Red Gum Riding

The core ethos of Red Gum Riding is to gift children a powerful and positive interaction with their equestrian friends. Their 30 minute or 1 hour private horse riding lessons teach beginners about equipment and take, grooming, basic riding skills, and horse care tips and hints. Horses are like family here at Red Gum Riding so come along and meet Koko, Chandon, Jessie, and the rest of the herd. This facility features a safe fenced riding area, stables, and four large paddocks for grazing and frolicking. 
Location: 533 Gold Coast Springbrook Rd, Mudgeeraba 

Bonogin Valley Horse Retreat

The team at Bonogin Valley Horse Retreat has all aspects of horse riding on the Gold Coast covered. Perfect for private coaching, introductory kids’ classes and group development lessons - the latter is a 2-hour clinic that teaches participants how to build trust with the horse, follow communication cues, and improve your horse-riding confidence overall. 

Arundel Park Riding for the Disabled has an outstanding reputation - for 40 years the volunteer, not-for-profit organisation has been sharing the joy and healing power of horses. The real heroes here are the herd of incredible horses who play the most important role in teaching life lessons and bringing joy to so many.

Arundel Park RDA offers a range of lessons, riding programs and horsemanship courses as well as guided trail rides. All programs are led by qualified RDA/Equestrian Coaches and supported by highly trained volunteers. Check out their (very popular) school holiday horse riding programs for able-bodied beginners/kids too or the Paddock Pals program, where young people learn basic horse knowledge, skills and safety through games and riding activities. Be sure to book well ahead as programs fill up fast.

Location: 387 Brisbane Rd, Arundel

Pony Rides at Paradise Country

Pony rides are a right of passage for those too young to take the reigns themselves. Paradise Country provides this wholesome experience, perfectly tailored to suit the little ones in your life. Note: children must be 130cm or under and 50kgs max. The dedicated pony area is found directly behind the shearing shed – which is another cool farm-style highlight for kids to experience whilst here. The pony rides are an additional cost to Paradise Country entry but it’s certainly worth a few extra pennies to create such magic memories. So, trot on in with kids and keep your camera ready.

Location: Prodcution Dr, Oxenford

Australian Outback Spectacular

While you can’t ride the horses at Australian Outback Spectacular, it’s an experience any equestrian enthusiast will love. You’ll be treated to an unforgettable night of entertainment while enjoying a delicious three-course meal and drinks. The show is set in an incredible arena, and with the immersive projection technology, the space is transformed into a variety of Australian landscapes and sets. While cows, sheep and cattle dogs make an appearance, it’s the horses who take the starring role in this show. Along with the talented trick riders, stockwomen and stock men, actors and performers, they tell they retell true stories of the outback and rural life. You can snap a pic with some of the beautiful horses in the pre-show area or book a behind the scenes tour where you can meet the magnificent and talented animals in this world-class production.  

Location: Entertainment Dr, Oxenford

Want to explore more? Check out The Ultimate Gold Coast Guide For Sports Fans.