tonimbuk trail rides

I went on a trail ride with Tonimbuk Trail Rides in a group for a two hour trail ride. There were older (teenage) children of varying levels of experience, some experienced riders, and some people who had very little experience. Prior to the ride, the group received some very basic instruction on how to mount, hold reins, steer, use legs, etc - enough for a trail ride. Horses were clearly chosen carefully, with newer riders on very lazy, quiet horses that took great care of them, and more experienced riders on horses that were more lively and forward - everyone seemed pretty well matched. Contrary to other reviews, on my ride there were a couple of staff on the ride to ensure all riders were looked after, and they were all quite obviously adults. The trails were gorgeous, often quite narrow and relatively steep, and the horses managed them very well. We mostly kept to a walk, but had some nice flat areas for trotting or cantering on the ride as well. When it was time to trot, the trail leader (Damon) asked if anyone wanted to just keep to a walk, and then separated the riders into two groups to ensure that everyone was able to ride at a pace they were comfortable with. Overall, the more experienced riding friends of mine very much enjoyed themselves, and the less experienced/scared of horses friends found themselves feeling safe and secure and enjoyed their experience more than they thought they would. I felt that consideration of safety issues were quite adequate. It is important to understand that horses are animals and will never be completely predictable. Even the most reliable of horses will sometimes shy at something that is unfamiliar, or stumble occasionally or kick if startled. They're not robots. If you have a concern with this, riding is not the activity for you. I would most certainly go again for my next trail ride!

We took 8 girls (mostly 10 year olds and a couple of younger sisters) here today for a 1 hour ride. Four had never ridden before, and all were beginners. They LOVED it. Damon and his partner could not have been lovelier and more helpful. the ride went throught the national park along some beautiful forest trails. I walked with the ride, but believe me, it was a strenuous quite difficult walk, as it was steep and at times narrow. Perfect! I'm not quite sure what people are expecting when they write such poor reviews, but this was the perfect day. The scenery was beautiful. The horses were good because while they were very tame, they weren't just mindless plodders - they had personalities and occasionally would break into a slow trot. The organisers were lovely. The price was very competitive. The kids went home tired and happy. What more could we ask for?

We did a 3 hour ride here - most of which was walking down a very long dirt road. We were lead by only one guide - a 15 year old girl. The regulations state that you must always have 2 guides and one must be over 18!!! Our guide seemed to be able to ride well, however when we entered the Bunyip State Forest, we ran into a family walking their very large (Great Dane) dogs. The dogs were controlled and on leads. The horse our guide was riding freaked at the dogs and she put me in the lead to guide everyone past the dogs. I am not a very experienced rider and was quite taken aback by this responsibility!! Safely past the dogs we enjoyed our (short) time in the state park. Walking back along the road, my husband's horse spooked at a dead wombat on the road. He was thrown off and injured quite badly. Our guide didn't seem to know what to do. I doubt that she had any first aid training which is also required by the regulations. She did have a mobile phone and was able to ring for help. My husband was able to get back onto the horse eventually and we walked back. If you do decide to ride here, beware of the safety aspects. I think there might be a bit of cost-cutting going on.

Very enjoyable ride. My daughter and I both inexperienced but loved the trail and were able to canter and trot and find some water to slog through. Guide experienced and knew what he was doing but not over instructive. Will go again

Did a 2 hour ride there today. I've been riding for over 40 years. They promised me a forward going, spirited horse because I am an experienced rider. Instead, they gave me a Clydesdale horse that was sweet, but just a very average, typical trail ride horse. I was lumped in a group of people who'd never ridden before, so we walked, did a few trots and had 2 very short canters. Most reputable trail riding places will actually pair a decent horse for their experienced riders and will break the group into experienced riders and novices. This place didn't...To top it off, the the ride didn't even go for 2 hours. This place is OK for novice riders, but if you're an experienced riders, give it a wide berth.

Tonimbuk website stated that horses would be appropriate for our size. Children were placed on large horses. There were two guides, one at front and one at back of group. Children in the middle of the group were left without any guidance. Scenery was attractive, but a some parts hilly not flat, could not relax and enjoy it. When the group commenced trotting, which we were not expecting, my 8 year old daughter fell from her large horse. Overall not a relaxing experience and would not recommend to families with small children.

This is exactly what we were looking for. An experience where we could enjoy the Australian bushland and see beautiful views. We aren't very experienced riders, but the guides were very patient with us and in no time we felt safe and comfortable on our friendly horses. We really enjoyed our ride - even though we wish it could have gone for longer! Highly recommend this place. Bit far, but definitely worth the trip.