Oahu: Horseback Ride North Shore Trails & Ranch Lookout

Summary

Ride through Oahu forests & pastures to a North Shore view

You’ll ride horseback through Oahu’s shady forests and open pastures alongside a small group and local guide. Watch for wild pigs and island birds as you climb toward a lookout over North Shore’s coastline and Laie town. There’s time for photos—and maybe a laugh or two—before heading back down with memories that linger longer than any picture.

What’s the experience like?

We swung up into the saddles at Gunstock Ranch, the horses shifting under us—mine was called Hoku, which means “star,” though he seemed more interested in grass than anything cosmic. Our guide, Kaleo, checked everyone’s stirrups and grinned when I admitted I’d only ridden once before. “No worries,” he said, “these guys know the way better than we do.” The air smelled like wet earth and hay, and you could hear cattle lowing somewhere out in the fields.

The trail wound through patches of cool shade where the trees tangled overhead—one moment you’re blinking in the sun, next you’re ducking under branches with bird calls echoing around. We spotted some wild pigs rooting around (I almost missed them until Kaleo pointed them out), and then there were these flashes of red from birds darting between the leaves. My jeans picked up dust every time Hoku decided to speed up for no reason. It felt kind of peaceful, but not quiet exactly—there’s always some animal noise or someone laughing about their horse ignoring directions.

After maybe an hour or so (I lost track), we came up over this rise and suddenly there it was—the North Shore coastline just stretching out below us. You could see Laie tucked right up against the ocean, all blue and green. Everyone went quiet for a second; even the horses seemed to pause. I tried to take a photo but mostly just stood there breathing in salt air that somehow made me hungry. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so connected to this place—or maybe it was just how relaxed everyone got by the end. Anyway, we headed back down with sore legs but big smiles.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback ride through Hawaiian countryside

• Climb into the saddle
• Ride through shaded forest trails
• Trek across open pastures
• Spot grazing cattle and island birds
• See wild pigs if lucky
• Reach lookout over North Shore coastline
• Relax and take photos at lookout

Top questions

How long is the horseback ride at Gunstock Ranch?

The horseback ride lasts about 90 minutes from start to finish.

Is this Oahu horseback tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s beginner-friendly with guidance from experienced wranglers.

Are helmets provided on this North Shore horseback ride?

Yes, use of helmets is included for all riders.

What should I wear for horseback riding at Gunstock Ranch?

Long pants and covered shoes are recommended; bring a light jacket if it’s cold.

Is lunch included on this Oahu horseback tour?

No meals are included; only helmets, guide services, and free parking are provided.

Can children join this horseback riding tour?

The minimum age is 7 years old; infants and small children cannot ride but may wait in a pram or stroller nearby.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The tour runs rain or shine unless weather is unsafe—in that case you can reschedule or get a refund.

What’s included

Your day includes use of helmets for safety, guidance from a local wrangler throughout your ride across Oahu’s Gunstock Ranch trails, plus free parking at the ranch before your group heads out together into the countryside.