Horseback Riding At Pi’iholo Ranch In Maui, Hawaii

Peter Baldwin

The Baldwin Family can truly be called pioneers of Maui, having participated in the missionary era of the 1830s to the monarchy period of the late 19th century and from World Wars I and II through the plantation era to the present. Six generations later, the Baldwin’s’ legacy trail makes for a fascinating ride. The ranch is also famous for a great zipline that the public can use.

From their website:
“Welcome to Upcountry Maui’s premiere Horseback Riding experience at historic Piiholo Ranch located on the edge of the rainforest 2,000 feet above the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean. With plenty of wide open ranges for horseback riding and panoramic views, come participate in the legacy created by seven generations of Maui’s preeminent ranching family. Owned and operated by Peter Baldwin and his family, Piiholo Ranch shares the family’s skill in cattle ranching and caring for the land and Hawaiian history for more than one hundred years.

“While enjoying one of the horseback rides and soaring through the towering Eucalyptus forest and green Kikuyu and Pangola pastures on Hawaii’s newest Canopy Tour or side-by-side Zipline, you will be part of this working cattle ranch, bearing witness to the many native plants and indigenous Hawaiian trees that line the property, all the while catching sight of colorful, endemic forest birds. You can also observe the majestic state bird, the endangered Hawaiian Nene goose, at the preserve and nursery established on the Ranch.

“While there are many activity companies on Maui, only one offers the traditional Hawaiian paniolo cowboy adventure.

Head Wrangler Tamalyn Baldwin

“As you ride through towering Eucalyptus, Koa, and Ohi`a trees, and green Kikuyu and Pangola pastures, you will be treated to a 360 degree majestic view from high up on Haleakala Crater to the blue Pacific Ocean 2,000 feet below. With the finest horses on the island, Piiholo Ranch provides a horseback ride second to none. After being expertly paired with your horse, you will find plenty of open range on the historic working cattle ranch to move freely among the many native plants and indigenous trees of Hawaii, and catch glimpses of the colorful, endemic forest birds.

“Our Daily Rides are limited to 6 guests per group, making it a friendly and one of a kind activity. You will have plenty of opportunity to interact with the guide and group.

“We are open Monday through Saturday, closed on Sundays.

Kids “Wrangler” Camp

“Piiholo Ranch is excited to offer your child a unique and wonderful experience through their new Kids “Wrangler” Camp. During Spring, Summer & Christmas break, Piiholo Wrangler camp sessions are held Monday through Friday with a cost of $400 per week. Class size is limited to 4 children per Wrangler, with a maximum number of 8 participants total. Lunch is available for an additional charge of $30 for the week.

“The goal of these camps is to introduce young riders to the great joys of riding while building confidence and balance. Camp Wranglers will teach the fundamentals of working safely with Horses, both on the ground and riding. They will cover the proper way to groom, saddle and lead a horse. While riding they will learn to use their four natural aides: legs, weight, voice and hands. The Participants will practice starting, stopping, circles, changing direction, control as a group and equitation.

“All participants must be 8 years of age or older.

“Safety is our number one priority, and we will do everything possible to ensure the safety of all riders. There will be a briefing before the ride concerning safety and basic riding instruction. We use a standard height-weight ratio to establish a safe weight limit for each individual, and to maintain the well-being of out horses. In the event of extreme weather, the ride will be canceled or rescheduled. If it is misty or lightly sprinkling, the ride will go out (remember, we are on the edge of a rainforest). Variable weather lends itself to incredible textures of the landscape with the ever-changing light, mist, shadows and usually brilliant blue skies. This experience will lift your spirits.

“Advance reservations with a credit card or voucher are required. All riders must be at least 8 years old and in good physical condition. All rides are suitable for experienced and first-time riders. Western saddles are provided. Cancellation requires 24 hours notice, “No shows” will be charged full fare. Rides go out rain or shine, but if the weather is extreme, we may cancel or reschedule to suit you. We can accommodate large groups of 10-14 people at a special rate.”

You can get more information at their website by clicking HERE.