About High Country Horses |
High Country Horses is nestled in the foothills of Merrijig. Owner/operator, Chris Dunlop has been in the Merrijig area for 30 years and setup Merrijig Lodge in1982 followed by Merrijig Trail Rides in 1990. In 2001 Chris purchased a rival trail riding business, Mount View Safaris. The two trail riding businesses have now been combined to form High Country Horses and run approximately 55 horses on rides ranging from 2 hours to multi- days.
As well as having a keen interest and understanding of horses, having worked with them all his life, Chris has a passion for the High Country and the integrity of the environment in which he is privileged to operate. Chris and his partner Fiona take a great pride in sharing the magic of the High Country with everyone that ride with them.
On our shorter rides, our main area of operation is through the foothills of Merrijig. Ride through the Dead Wood Forest as featured in 'The Man From Snowy River 2', splash through creeks and enjoy the serenity of the natural bush where the wild life abounds.
Our extended camp out rides travel up the headwaters of the Delatite River over the Summitof Mt Stirling, to Craig's Hut and down into the lush King River Valley taking in the breathtaking views along the way as we pass through forests of majestic Alpine Ash and the twisted, gnarled multi coloured Snow Gums. For the more adventurous spirits, we run rides into the mysterious Wonangatta Valley, the beautiful Howqua Valley, and explore the surrounding areas of Mt Howitt, Mt Cobbler, Mt Magdala, the Bluff and beyond.
Our horses are tried and true mountain horses as honest as the day is long. We have horses to suit every level of rider and the flexibility to adjust the ride according to your ability. Our tour guides are professional horseman with a sound knowledge of the environment they travel as well as a good knowledge of the local folklore. Our aim is to provide rides that take in as much of the magnificent high country as we can ensuring our guest have a memorable, but most importantly, a safe experience.