ATV Riding on Big Island: Honda & UTV Options

You ride the machine, not watch from a seat.

ATV riding on Big Island's Hamakua ranch land with your choice of Honda 4x4 ATV or Side x Side UTV, including instruction on a practice track, scenic photo stops with views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific, and a 20-minute break with snacks and a dip in Umauma's private waterfall pond. All experience levels are welcome; a valid driver's license is required, and riders must be at least 16 years old.

The Experience

You choose between a single-rider Honda 4x4 ATV or a Side x Side UTV that seats two or four, then head to the practice track for instruction from guides before moving onto the ranch trails. The machines are fully automatic with power steering, so the learning curve is short even if you've never ridden before. Miles of trail wind through Hamakua land with 1,000 feet of elevation gain, opening views of Mauna Kea above and the Pacific Ocean below.

The ride takes you through terrain that changes with the weather—fresh rain brings mud that some riders seek out specifically. Guides stop for photos at scenic points along the route, breaking up the riding with moments to take in the landscape. After roughly 90 minutes of trail time, you pull in for a 20-minute rest with snacks, then wade into Umauma's private waterfall pond to cool off.

Goggles, helmet and snacks are included; you'll need closed-toe shoes and full clothing. Passengers aged 4 to 11 ride with a parent or guardian in the four-seater UTV. Drivers must present a valid license at check-in, and anyone under 16 needs parental permission and a parent on the tour.

What’s included

• Goggles, helmet and snacks during the 20-minute break.
• instruction on a practice track before heading onto the ranch trails.
• scenic photo stops with views of Mauna Kea and the Pacific.
• a dip in Umauma's private waterfall pond.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by The Umauma Experience

Is this one for you?Pick the single-rider Honda ATV if you want full control of the machine and the freedom to set your own pace on the trail. Choose the two or four-seater UTV if you're riding with family or friends and want to share the experience in the same vehicle.

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Top questions

Can I ride an ATV if I've never done it before?

Yes. The practice track includes instruction from guides, and the fully automatic ATVs with power steering are designed for all experience levels. Beginners and experienced riders book this activity regularly.

What's the difference between the Honda ATV and the Side x Side UTV?

The Honda 4x4 ATV is a single-rider machine. The Side x Side UTV seats two or four passengers, so you can ride with family or friends in the same vehicle. All machines are fully automatic with power steering.

Do I get to swim in the waterfall?

Yes. After the trail ride, you have a 20-minute stop at Umauma's private waterfall pond where you can wade in and cool off. Bring a change of clothes or plan to dry off before heading back.

What's included in the price?

Goggles, helmet, snacks during the break and instruction on the practice track are included. You'll need to bring a valid driver's license and wear closed-toe shoes and full clothing.

Can my young child ride with me?

Children aged 4 to 11 can ride as passengers in the four-seater UTV with a parent or guardian. Children under 4 are not permitted. Drivers must be at least 16 years old with parental permission and a parent on the tour.

What happens if it rains?

The activity runs in rain. Fresh rain actually creates muddy conditions that some riders enjoy. Wear full clothing and closed-toe shoes as required, and be prepared for wet trail conditions.