Horse riding is a great way to experience the diversity of Tasmania’s parks and reserves. You can explore the Cradle country with the mountain as your backdrop, or amble along Narawntapu’s coastal scenery. Though riding is not allowed in most parks, there are several areas open for horse lovers and a number of tour groups operating around the state.
Where to do it
Peter Murrell Reserve
The Huntingfield Pony Club leases 25ha of the conservation area, this includes both arena and trail riding areas. The reserve has a horse riding trail and a horse riding zone that are marked with signage. Horse riding is permitted in these areas only.
Narawntapu National Park
Narawntapu National Park offers holding yards and two horse trails to choose from; the original beach trail and a bush trail. A permit is needed to bring horses into the park and bookings must be made at least 4 days in advance. More information can be found by contacting the Narawntapu Visitor Centre on (03) 6428 6277 or narawntapu.parks@parks.tas.gov.au.
If you are unfamiliar with the trails, or guidelines for riding, it is recommended that you visit the Visitor Centre or request further information such as maps and advice.
Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area
Trevallyn Nature Recreation Area has an equestrian area, complete with a fenced, grass dressage arena and an extensive cross country jumps circuit, all of which are managed by a local riding club. Horse riding is also permitted on some of the wider fire trails.
Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area (TWHHA) -
Central Plateau Conservation Area and areas of the
Cradle Mountain National Park.
You need to be a proficient rider with a horse used to travelling in rough country, but the efforts are worth it to experience the changing landscape with Cradle Mountain as your backdrop. For less experienced riders, tour groups operate in the area and can provide a horseback adventure for all skill levels. Some areas require permits and have number limits.
Safe riding guidelines
- It is strongly recommended that all riders wear helmets when riding in Tasmanian parks.
- As some areas are multi-use, it is important that your horse is accustomed to other trail users such as dog walkers and mountain bike riders. It is expected that other users make way for horses, and where possible stop until the horse has passed.
- In order to maintain the area, it is important to stay on the trails, pay attention to signage and avoid taking shortcuts. This prevents soil and track erosion, and track braiding.
- No hay or chaff should be fed to horses in restricted areas, such as the Central Plateau Conservation Area, as they contain weed seeds – please use pellets only.
Permits
Permits are required in some parks and conservation areas. For more information on permits, please contact the visitor centre or field office for the area you wish to visit.