BEN LOMOND GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Lake Shore Trek: A 45‑Minute, Beginner‑Friendly Horse Ride Around Moke Lake
A guided 45‑minute horseback ride along the shores of Moke Lake for ages 5 and up — ideal for families and first‑time riders, with a guide sharing local insights.
Lake Shore Trek: A 45‑Minute, Beginner‑Friendly Horse Ride Around Moke Lake.
Adventure brief
Lake Shore Trek: A 45‑Minute, Beginner‑Friendly Horse Ride Around Moke Lake
The Lake Shore Trek is a short, scenic horse ride around Moke Lake that threads through grassy meadows and across gentle streams, framed by rugged mountain ranges and the lake’s clear water. Designed as a relaxed walk for beginners and families, the 45‑minute outing pairs steady horses with friendly guides who share local history, wildlife and natural features to deepen the experience.
Located in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Moke Lake offers a captivating setting for a relaxed yet intimate horseback riding experience. Just a short drive from Queenstown, this pristine glacial-fed lake is framed by rugged mountains and lush green meadows, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. The Lake Shore Trek, operated by Moke Lake Horse Treks Ltd, provides an accessible adventure suitable for families and beginners eager to connect with nature on horseback. The 45-minute ride takes riders on gentle loops around the lake’s shoreline, passing through open meadows, alongside trickling streams, and under a canopy of native trees. Guides share engaging stories about the area's geology, history, and local flora and fauna, enriching the riding experience. The terrain is flat and manageable, making this trek perfect for those new to horseback riding or looking for a relaxed outing in a stunning setting. Moke Lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks, creating perfect photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. This spot is also notable for its tranquility—far from busier tourist hubs—offering a genuine escape into New Zealand’s wilderness. The lake and its surroundings support an array of native birdlife, including fantails and kingfishers, making it a quiet haven for birdwatching as well. The operation emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact while providing an authentic, responsible adventure. Whether you're a first-time rider or seeking a peaceful trek in the outdoors, Moke Lake provides a memorable slice of New Zealand’s scenic beauty—accessible, family-friendly, and loaded with natural charm.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic
A concise loop with distinct moments — meeting and horse assignment, meadow riding, stream crossings and lakeside views.
Meeting Point — Moke Lake Road (opposite campsite)
Check‑in and a brief orientation before being introduced to the horse best suited to your weight and ability.
Grassy Meadows
A gentle amble through open, grassy farmland and meadowland where the pace stays relaxed and views open to the surrounding ranges.
Stream Crossings
Short, careful crossings of shallow streams that punctuate the ride and lead toward the lake shore.
Lakeside Return
Riding alongside stretches of Moke Lake’s clear water with mountain backdrops before the loop returns to the meeting point.
This ride has safety and participation limits: minimum age 5 (children 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian), maximum weight 100 kg; clients may be weighed at check‑in and will be allocated a horse to suit weight and ability. For safety all clients must be able to understand and communicate in English for the duration of the activity.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Moke Lake’s framed panoramas
The route opens onto sprawling farmland and grassy meadows before tracing the crystal‑clear shorelines of Moke Lake, all backed by stark mountain ranges — scenery condensed into a concise, accessible ride.
A relaxed 45‑minute introduction to riding
The trek proceeds at a calm walk for approximately 45 minutes, making it an easy, low‑stress way for families and first‑time riders to connect with horses and the landscape.
Friendly guidance and horse matching
Guides accompany the ride, sharing insights about the local area, and participants are introduced to horses chosen to match riding ability and weight to ensure both rider safety and the horses’ wellbeing.
What the day feels like
What the ride feels like
Expect a short, unhurried circuit that encourages observation over speed: a steady walk through meadows, the occasional crossing of shallow, flowing streams, and stretches along the lake where the horses and riders can absorb the surrounding peaks and clear water while the guide points out local natural and historical notes.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The guided ride lasts approximately 45 minutes. Meeting location is Moke Lake Road (opposite the campsite).
Dress for the weather: long comfortable pants, sturdy closed footwear (no large heels, crocs or sandals). Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, sunglasses and a phone or small camera if you wish to record memories (your responsibility).
Maximum weight is 100 kg; horses are matched to rider weight and ability and clients may be weighed at check‑in to ensure safety.
Minimum age is 5 years. All children aged 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the activity.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Lake Shore Trek?
The ride is approximately 45 minutes long.
Where do we meet for the ride?
Meeting is at Moke Lake Road (opposite the campsite).
What is the minimum age for participants?
The minimum age is 5 years; children 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes — the maximum rider weight is 100 kg; clients may be weighed at check‑in and will be matched to an appropriate horse.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear long comfortable pants and sturdy closed footwear (no large heels, crocs or sandals). Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a water bottle, sunglasses and a phone or small camera if desired.
Is the ride suitable for beginners?
Yes — the Lake Shore Trek is suitable for beginners and is conducted at a calm walking pace with guide support.
Are refunds offered if someone is turned away for not meeting requirements?
No — the operator states that no refunds are offered if you are turned away due to breach of the English language safety requirement.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:16.732Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.