Trail Ride and Zipline Combo at Sauderland Homestead — Palmer, AK
Saddle up and clip into a zipline on a full-day combo at Sauderland Homestead near Palmer, Alaska. Spend the morning on horseback, lunch under a clear-top tent, then soar through spruce treetops with mountain panoramas on the zipline.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring ankle-supporting footwear
Sturdy boots help on uneven trail sections during the horseback portion and provide better footing at zipline platforms.
Check weight and health requirements before booking
Operators require weight details and ask about back or pregnancy restrictions—be upfront to ensure safety.
Hydrate and pack a small daypack
Even with a provided lunch, bring water and a light pack for layers and essentials between transfers.
Time your camera use
Keep cameras secured on ziplines and follow guide instructions—phones on lanyards are fine but not handheld during rides.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lunch tent lookout with unobstructed views of both Chugach and Talkeetna ranges just after the morning ride
- •Short homestead tour behind the barn where you can meet heritage breeds and see seasonal produce plots
Wildlife
- •Moose
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Stay on designated trails, follow guide instructions around pastures, and pack out trash; the operation emphasizes low-impact use of pastureland and forest corridors.
The Matanuska Valley was developed in the 1930s as an agricultural colony; many local homesteads preserve that farm-and-ranch heritage alongside modern recreation.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking or riding bootsEssential
Protects ankles and provides traction on trails and at platforms.
Layered synthetic clothingEssential
Quick-dry layers keep you comfortable as temperatures shift in the valley.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Sun can be strong at elevation; protect skin during breaks and while riding.
Small daypack or waist pack
Carries water, camera, and a light layer while shuttling between activities.
Common Questions
How long is the full experience?
The full outing runs about eight hours total, with horseback activity roughly 11:00–13:00, lunch, and a second activity (zipline or trail) from 14:00–16:00, plus drive and transfer time.
Is transportation provided from Anchorage?
The tour includes private transportation; pickups are arranged from Anchorage as part of the booking—confirm pickup point when reserving.
Are there any restrictions for participants?
Not recommended for pregnant travelers or guests with spinal injuries; operators will ask for passenger weights and may restrict participation based on safety limits.
What’s included in the price?
Typical inclusions are guided activities, deli-style lunch (ham/turkey or vegetarian salad), private transport between sites, and required gear briefings—confirm exact inclusions with the operator.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Palmer, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to mount/dismount horses, walk short uneven trails, and tolerate short bursts of exertion on platforms and lines.
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