Big River Ranch
Big River Ranch
4.5
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
23 within 5 kms
Attractions
17 within 10 kms
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.5
155 reviews
Excellent
92
Very good
36
Average
8
Poor
12
Terrible
7
Mamph
Perth, Australia7 contributions
July 2021 • Family
Thanks to the owner he managed to squeeze me, my husband and 2 daughters onto a trail ride. The day arrived and it had been raining the previous night, the owner was very adaptable and just changed the times of our ride. We had our ride with our family of 4 which was lovely. Scenery was beautiful, riding through the river was awesome. The guides were knowledgeable, but a bit inpatient and at times brash with several comments that were made in particular by the leader.
The horse that I was on was so slow and kept trotting without warning to catch up to the others. I’m a novice horse rider so it startled me the first few times it happened. Overall though it was a fun experience.
The horse that I was on was so slow and kept trotting without warning to catch up to the others. I’m a novice horse rider so it startled me the first few times it happened. Overall though it was a fun experience.
Written 10 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tomandkris
Perth, Australia1 contribution
Apr 2021 • Friends
The place smelt like dirty old people. Was told we had to stay for two nights if we wanted a room. Agreed THEN got to room and discovered it had no AirConditioning. 46 degree day 😥
Left next morning after being woken by a large spider on my hand. Doesn’t look anything like the photo s online. Soooo disappointed. NEVER AGAIN!!!
Left next morning after being woken by a large spider on my hand. Doesn’t look anything like the photo s online. Soooo disappointed. NEVER AGAIN!!!
Written 2 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tony A
2 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
Was camping there. Was given a site by the receptionist, and went there and set up the tent. About an hour later, someone, I assume the manager, came up to me and asked if that was my tent. When I said yes, he told, not asked, told me I had to move because another group, arriving later had dibs on that site. When I explained that was the spot I was told to go, he said that person didn't really work there and he was down to less than half staff.
He attitude made me feel very unwelcome, so we packed up and left.
I put a review on Google Maps, and his response is attached below.
He attitude made me feel very unwelcome, so we packed up and left.
I put a review on Google Maps, and his response is attached below.
Written 2 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Liv
1 contribution
Jan 2021 • Friends
Looked really good and we were really looking forward to a trail ride. Made the mistake of trying to book over the phone. Unfortunately when it came to the time of confirmation our booking hadn't made it into the system and as a result we missed out. I recommend booking online to secure your spots.
Written 23 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gaye L
1 contribution
Jan 2021 • Family
Visited the Big River Ranch with my husband and our two kids (21yrs and 16yrs). We went on a trail ride through bush trails and along the river, and even crossed through the river which was fun, and great on quite a warm day. Very nice scenery too.
Our two guides were very competent and friendly and we all had a great time and enjoyable ride. Thanks also to our four beautiful horses who were all so well behaved!😊
Our two guides were very competent and friendly and we all had a great time and enjoyable ride. Thanks also to our four beautiful horses who were all so well behaved!😊
Written 15 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sue R
Perth, Australia114 contributions
Apr 2016 • Couples
Really Really wanted to go but was disappointed with the cost $115 each for 2 hrs, really, they would be better to charge half that and get twice the amount of customers
Do horses eat that much??
Do horses eat that much??
Written 25 April 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JaG_40s
Perth, Australia3 contributions
Dec 2014 • Friends
If you want your children to walk and canter in the bush, along the river bank and even to wade in the river, then this is a safe ride.
But this review is aimed at capable riders. If you are an adult and an experienced rider expecting enthusiastic responsive horses, go somewhere else.
We were asked our experience and the group included an instructor, another person who has worked at a ranch that takes public rides, and another who has done many trail rides in several countries. We expected to be able to 'ride' our horses. As soon as we had mounted we were instructed to 'park' our horses facing a fence. The next instruction was when we set off, to just follow the horse in front. That was it for the next 75 minutes (not 90 minutes as published) of plodding plus a couple of canters (blink and you've missed them) during which we were held up by inexperienced riders.
The prices charged are higher than currently advertised on Big River Ranch's website.
In summary, we desperately wanted to be on the horse that the guide was riding.
But this review is aimed at capable riders. If you are an adult and an experienced rider expecting enthusiastic responsive horses, go somewhere else.
We were asked our experience and the group included an instructor, another person who has worked at a ranch that takes public rides, and another who has done many trail rides in several countries. We expected to be able to 'ride' our horses. As soon as we had mounted we were instructed to 'park' our horses facing a fence. The next instruction was when we set off, to just follow the horse in front. That was it for the next 75 minutes (not 90 minutes as published) of plodding plus a couple of canters (blink and you've missed them) during which we were held up by inexperienced riders.
The prices charged are higher than currently advertised on Big River Ranch's website.
In summary, we desperately wanted to be on the horse that the guide was riding.
Written 17 January 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cst123452017
Greater Perth, Australia1 contribution
Dec 2017 • Solo
I'm writing this review because of the lack of interest in the feedback I emailed the stables after an incident on Boxing Day. Here's the email:
"When I said I was an intermediate rider it meant in the English style. I've ridden for 50 years but never Western style.
I received conflicting advice:
Sarah tells me not to keep in touch with Ali's mouth all the time but that I'll not be riding in the Western style.
Jason tells me to pull Ali back whenever she gets too close the horse in front and to ride in the Western style. The horse in front didn't keep up with the one in front of it as it's pace was much slower and the rider was a beginner. Every time I pulled Ali up she resisted and then as soon as I let the reins out she sped up and caught up with the horse in front. Not an easy ride!
For half the ride Jason disappeared. So when the incident happened with horse behind me spooking and Ali freaking out he wasn't there. Where the hell was he?
Lesson I've learnt - always say you're a beginner and never get on a 6yr old ex-racehorse thoroughbred mare and ride it in a Western style without any previous experience.
I didn't enjoy a minute of those 2 hrs and my face is sore and bruised with two huge blood blisters in my mouth. Accidents happened and I accept that but I hope you take on board the feedback I've given."
I know that accidents happen but their incidence can be reduced. But it's the total disregard and lack of concern following my email which has disappointed me. I also sent a photo of the swelling and bruising on my face but the company have remained silent. Maybe I understand that they wouldn't want to acknowledge any responsibility for the incident but their silence speaks volumes. In hindsight I should have raised these issues immediately after the incident whilst at the stables, but the shock and pain of the injury made me want to get back to my accommodation as quickly as possible.
If you're an intermediate or advanced rider in the Western style then Ali will be an exciting ride. Or if you're in a group of similar experienced riders on equivalent horses then the ride should be enjoyable. But if not then it's probably best to avoid Ali. I hope the stables accept this feedback, have some decency and reconsider their lack of response.
"When I said I was an intermediate rider it meant in the English style. I've ridden for 50 years but never Western style.
I received conflicting advice:
Sarah tells me not to keep in touch with Ali's mouth all the time but that I'll not be riding in the Western style.
Jason tells me to pull Ali back whenever she gets too close the horse in front and to ride in the Western style. The horse in front didn't keep up with the one in front of it as it's pace was much slower and the rider was a beginner. Every time I pulled Ali up she resisted and then as soon as I let the reins out she sped up and caught up with the horse in front. Not an easy ride!
For half the ride Jason disappeared. So when the incident happened with horse behind me spooking and Ali freaking out he wasn't there. Where the hell was he?
Lesson I've learnt - always say you're a beginner and never get on a 6yr old ex-racehorse thoroughbred mare and ride it in a Western style without any previous experience.
I didn't enjoy a minute of those 2 hrs and my face is sore and bruised with two huge blood blisters in my mouth. Accidents happened and I accept that but I hope you take on board the feedback I've given."
I know that accidents happen but their incidence can be reduced. But it's the total disregard and lack of concern following my email which has disappointed me. I also sent a photo of the swelling and bruising on my face but the company have remained silent. Maybe I understand that they wouldn't want to acknowledge any responsibility for the incident but their silence speaks volumes. In hindsight I should have raised these issues immediately after the incident whilst at the stables, but the shock and pain of the injury made me want to get back to my accommodation as quickly as possible.
If you're an intermediate or advanced rider in the Western style then Ali will be an exciting ride. Or if you're in a group of similar experienced riders on equivalent horses then the ride should be enjoyable. But if not then it's probably best to avoid Ali. I hope the stables accept this feedback, have some decency and reconsider their lack of response.
Written 31 December 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonathan M
1 contribution
Oct 2019 • Family
We rode the 2 hour trail ride along the Murchison river, the scenery was fantastic and perfect for beginners like me.
Unfortunately the experience was ruined by Jason who has no idea how to instruct without shouting and patronising if you so much as drop back by half a horse length to the horse in front or step slightly out of line, in the end I couldn’t wait to get back and get off. The rest of the team were great however.
This place relies on tourism and the guides are the ones who should make it a place to recommend and return to.
After reading other reviews I see it’s a recurring theme with this guy...........
Unfortunately the experience was ruined by Jason who has no idea how to instruct without shouting and patronising if you so much as drop back by half a horse length to the horse in front or step slightly out of line, in the end I couldn’t wait to get back and get off. The rest of the team were great however.
This place relies on tourism and the guides are the ones who should make it a place to recommend and return to.
After reading other reviews I see it’s a recurring theme with this guy...........
Written 7 October 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pete H
Subiaco, Australia19 contributions
I ended up at Big River because the girlfriend had organised the horse ride, and when you can't come up with a better plan, you horse ride.
In the end, it was an excellent day. Our group, and this is important, consisted of 12 ppl, some experienced, some very inexperienced. I, and the missus, were in the toddler category. We'd been on trail rides when kids (last century) usually on glue factory contestants that didn't even know they had a rider on their backs.
So, I could get a good horse started, control it, trot, maybe canter on a prayer and stop it...just.
Back to the ride...these horses were in excellent condition. Big, strong and fit. Most, if i heard correctly, are retired racehorses, and I felt I was riding a fantastic animal.
Once we were introduced to our horse, we had to endure the standard critique of equipment from our fellow horse women in the group and the non subtle riding resume that needed to be shared with the group...yes Victoria, I get that you normally use a different bridle and saddle when you are eventing or making your horse walk backwards whilst wearing a velvet jacket and top hat, but...stop, please, now.
But, I digress.
We, the ones who weren't bought horses by daddy at breastfeeding, were given very simple and very clear riding instructions which took away any doubts about my ability to control this beast. I.e. you're in charge, keep turning his nose to his bum if he won't turn. What do you know, it works.
The trail ride in riding terms was simple, because of our group size and varying experiences. We had to ride strictly nose to tail and for us beginners, this was just fine. It was a big group and tricky conditions.
Water, slippery mud, slopes, narrow paths, and sand.
It suited me just fine.
Victoria and the gun riders may have wanted more. The experienced riders were taken off for two brief canters with one of the instructors. They said they enjoyed it.
I wanted to go, but my age acquired sensibility overrode my macho ego and I stayed with the plebs. And one of the polo set fell off...glad I stayed.
So, if you want to show everyone how worthwhile all that time and money you have spent in the equine ecosystem is, this is the place for you too. But just book a group with just you. The staff here are really great. They make learners feel safe and pretend to genuinely be interested in dressage despite them only being rodeo riders, horse breakers, trainers and jockeys.
The stars of this setup are the staff, horses and mainly the trail itself. It is beautiful, different and a great way to see some of Kalbarri. We didn't do a river crossing as planned because the river was too high, but didn't detract from our ride.
Sure, I'd like more freedom to ride independently, but I'll be booking a private group next time.
In the end, it was an excellent day. Our group, and this is important, consisted of 12 ppl, some experienced, some very inexperienced. I, and the missus, were in the toddler category. We'd been on trail rides when kids (last century) usually on glue factory contestants that didn't even know they had a rider on their backs.
So, I could get a good horse started, control it, trot, maybe canter on a prayer and stop it...just.
Back to the ride...these horses were in excellent condition. Big, strong and fit. Most, if i heard correctly, are retired racehorses, and I felt I was riding a fantastic animal.
Once we were introduced to our horse, we had to endure the standard critique of equipment from our fellow horse women in the group and the non subtle riding resume that needed to be shared with the group...yes Victoria, I get that you normally use a different bridle and saddle when you are eventing or making your horse walk backwards whilst wearing a velvet jacket and top hat, but...stop, please, now.
But, I digress.
We, the ones who weren't bought horses by daddy at breastfeeding, were given very simple and very clear riding instructions which took away any doubts about my ability to control this beast. I.e. you're in charge, keep turning his nose to his bum if he won't turn. What do you know, it works.
The trail ride in riding terms was simple, because of our group size and varying experiences. We had to ride strictly nose to tail and for us beginners, this was just fine. It was a big group and tricky conditions.
Water, slippery mud, slopes, narrow paths, and sand.
It suited me just fine.
Victoria and the gun riders may have wanted more. The experienced riders were taken off for two brief canters with one of the instructors. They said they enjoyed it.
I wanted to go, but my age acquired sensibility overrode my macho ego and I stayed with the plebs. And one of the polo set fell off...glad I stayed.
So, if you want to show everyone how worthwhile all that time and money you have spent in the equine ecosystem is, this is the place for you too. But just book a group with just you. The staff here are really great. They make learners feel safe and pretend to genuinely be interested in dressage despite them only being rodeo riders, horse breakers, trainers and jockeys.
The stars of this setup are the staff, horses and mainly the trail itself. It is beautiful, different and a great way to see some of Kalbarri. We didn't do a river crossing as planned because the river was too high, but didn't detract from our ride.
Sure, I'd like more freedom to ride independently, but I'll be booking a private group next time.
Written 17 April 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Can we just do a horse riding activity?
Or do we have to stay at farm for riding horses along Murchison river?
We have a baby 2 years old, can he ride with us?
Written 27 May 2021
Sorry mate I think this should have gone direct to the ranch. Mind I'm sure they do have a website
Written 4 February 2015
Showing results 1-2 of 2
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing