Horsing around in Hawaii

[caption id="attachment_1463885" align="aligncenter" width="604"] ©istockphoto/danhieux[/caption] There’s just nothing better than breaking out on the open road on horseback. Unless, of course, you can unleash the cowboy within by breaking out on beautiful beaches and tropical trails—in Hawaii—instead. Here are Hawaii’s top five trails to try (and trot) out. Waipio Valley, Big Island
Mount up and prepare yourself for a ride through a majestic mountain trail aptly titled, “Valley of the Kings.” This secluded stretch of scenery offers amazing jungle vegetation, gurgling streams and sweetly rolling rivers to accompany you along your ride. Local ranches are nearby to provide guided excursions of this not-to-be-missed experience. Ka’naio Beach, Maui
Unlike any other landscape on the island of Maui, meandering along the breathtaking beach scene of Ka’naio Beach is truly a treat. This secluded, sandy beach - often called “The Oasis” - offers tranquility and time to come away from the hustle and bustle of the everyday. Just visiting here is a gift, yet add to that galloping and riding along the wondrous waves and shoreline this beach has to offer only multiplies the blessing and experience. Maui’s local Triple L Ranch will even coordinate an entire day’s getaway, including mouthwatering meals. North Shore, Oahu
Voted Best of Honolulu Magazine 2014 for a reason, this trail ride winds its way along the world famous waves of Oahu’s North Shore. Mokuleia is an often overlooked, tucked away beach where you can truly tap into the tranquility and peace of paradise, like no place else. Enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific’s pounding power as you ride along the white sands of this pristine stretch. Kualoa Valley, Oahu
Considered to be one of the most sacred spots in all of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu’s Kualoa Valley has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. With the Koolau Mountains looming in the background, the beauty of this ancient Oahu landscape truly is breathtaking. When you visit, you will most likely recognize some familiar scenes, as numerous Hollywood films and TV shows, including Jurassic Park, Hunger Games and Pearl Harbor have adopted its angles and views as settings. To add to your adventure, ride through this historic wilderness with a guided excursion hosted by one of Hawaii’s oldest working cattle ranches, offering exclusive access to trails, open pastures and landmarks (even an ancient ice pond) otherwise closed to visitors. Princeville, Kauai
Pristine in a beauty all its own, Kauai’s wild and more rural landscapes attract tourists in droves—seeking quiet and peaceful solitude. Picturesque panoramas and lush jungle landscapes are what one can expect when cruising horseback in this neck of the woods. Refreshing mountain pools and even secluded waterfalls all await on this idyllic island. If you are really up for an adventure, sign up to explore with Kauai’s local Princeville Ranch, offering several exciting outdoor hike-and-ride option combinations. —Andy Beth Miller