Lana’i, Hawaii Western Adventures: Horseback Riding with Cowboy Cody

Of the things I wanted to do while in Hawaii this time around, horseback riding was at the top of my list.  Not ever having done it before was in the back of my mind, sure.  But, I imagined my husband and I galloping across the sand, wind blowing in my hair, and thought that’s about as romantic as it gets.

Though it didn’t go exactly like I had fantasized, horseback riding in Lana’i was a great experience. The Stables at Koele was are starting spot for our hour long plus  adventure.  Just down the road from the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele, you can arrive by shuttle or it’s a nice walk from the resort if you’re staying there.  Cowboy Cody greeted us dressed the part and I worried that my track suit looked so out of place.  Mentioning that it was basically our first time (my husband rode over 20 years ago), I was assigned the horse named Dusty, who is generally the horse the kids ride.  My husband rode Gib and we saddled up along with two other riders we met on the shuttle.Heading to the hills where we had explored with Rabaca’s SUV tour, I worried slightly for my lower back pain to set in.  I have arthritis, but the casual trot that we ambled in single-file was actually a lot more comfortable than I expected.  The rocking motion was relaxing and I even felt as I’d be lulled to sleep.  Only at times when I needed to give Dusty a slight nudge to the side and give the kissing sound to him to catch up to the group did the trot speed up to a gallop and holding on was of my utmost importance.  Luckily Cowboy Cody only egged Dusty on once for my benefit to experience how quick the pace can be picked up.The weather was fantastic that morning, cool yet the sunshine heated me up through my black clothing.  It’s funny that I worried my weight would impact Dusty’s performance, especially uphill, but the sweet horse only lost a little footing once through our trek on the moist dirt as it had rained earlier that morning. Through the dirt trails, around the ironwood trees, through the rocky landscape and to the greener brush, the ride was a peaceful way to experience the island.  Though we didn’t ride across the beach alongside the endless ocean, I had a memorable experience.  The horses cooperated so well, our ramble through the unspoiled landscapes, valley, and our unobstructed views were priceless.  Cowboy Cody was the utmost gentleman, knowledgeable, friendly, and a superior tour guide.  If you get the chance to visit Lana’i, take a ride via horseback and Lana’i Hawaii Western Adventures,  you’ll love it!

My ride was hosted by the Lanai Visitor’s Bureau, while my husband’s was at media rate.  All opinions are ours.