Parker Ranch is one of our nation's oldest and most historic ranches and is counted among the largest ranches in the United States with nearly 250 horses and over 35,000 cattle.
Founded in 1847 by John Parker, a New Englander who jumped ship on the Big Island and married the daughter of a member of the Hawaiian royalty, it is also the home of Hawaii's cowboys - the paniolo. Paniolos are a tough, hard-riding breed who for six generations have worked the Parker Ranch.
In October 2009, in an effort to get back to basics by focusing on livestock production and managing its 150,000 acres, the ranch eliminated several tours including the popular Cattle Country Tour.
In addition, the ranch's historic homes are now only open to the public on special occasions. Hunting adventures and horseback rides with Cowboys of Hawaii are still available. The Parker Ranch store also remains open to the public.
Related Features About the Parker Ranch and the Waimea Area of the Big Island
A Brief History of Waimea and the Parker Ranch.
Profile of Waimea also known as Kamuela.
Read our review of a horseback ride with Cowboys of Hawaii at Parker Ranch.
View our gallery of 32 photos of our horseback ride at Parker Ranch.
Contact Information
Parker Ranch
67-1435 Mamalahoa Hwy.
Kamuela, HI 96743
(808) 885-7655
Parker Ranch website
