Zara Houghton National Trail Horse Expedition 2026
Mon, Jun 01
|Kilkivan
Self-reliant long-distance horse expedition along The National Trail, approximately 2,500km over 5+ months. The National Trail follows historic stock routes, packhorse tracks, travelling stock reserves and bush roads. It remains one of the longest continuous riding routes in the world
Time & Location
Jun 01, 2026, 7:00 PM – Oct 31, 2026, 11:00 PM
Kilkivan, Kilkivan QLD 4600, Australia
About the event
Overview
In June 2026, I will set out on a long-distance horse journey along The National Trail, travelling from southern Queensland through New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory before finishing in Victoria.
This expedition has developed gradually over several years. It brings together my experience in outdoor education and expedition leadership, my connection to rural Australia, and my long-standing interest in travelling with horses in a practical and self-reliant way.
Moving at the pace of my three horses, I expect the journey to take around five months. Every night will be spent camping and will involve long periods in remote terrain with limited services and changing environmental conditions.
I am drawn to journeys that require patience and consistency. Long-distance travel creates space for careful observation, decision-making, steady progress and meaningful connection with the land and community.
The Route