Epona is one of the most iconic companions in gaming history, serving as Link's reliable steed across the vast fields of Hyrule in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. While obtaining her is an optional quest for traveling faster, unlocking her unlocks essential gameplay advantages and makes traversing the overworld far more enjoyable. Understanding the specific timeline and steps required ensures you will not miss out on bonding with this legendary horse during your adventure.
Visiting Lon Lon Ranch as Young Link
Your journey to claim Epona begins during the child timeline early in the game. You must visit Lon Lon Ranch, situated in the center of Hyrule Field, during the daytime to meet Malon and her father Talon. Speaking with Malon near the central corral introduces you to Epona, who is initially shy around strangers.
To gain Epona's trust, pull out your Fairy Ocarina while standing near her and speak with Malon until she teaches you Epona's Song. Playing this melody allows Link to calm the skittish horse whenever he approaches her. Establishing this connection early is a mandatory prerequisite before advancing into the future timeline.
Returning to the Ranch as Adult Link
After pulling the Master Sword from the Pedestal of Time and traveling seven years into the future, return to Lon Lon Ranch. You will find that the villainous Ingo has taken over the ranch from Talon under Ganondorf's reign. Ingo now charges visitors rupees to ride the horses kept inside the corral.
Pay Ingo 10 rupees to enter the riding ring for a timed session. Once inside, play Epona's Song on the Ocarina of Time to call Epona directly to your side. Mounting her allows you to ride around the enclosed area and get accustomed to her movement controls.
Challenging Ingo to a Horse Race
While mounted on Epona, approach Ingo and speak to him to initiate a race for 50 rupees. Thanks to Epona's superior speed and stamina, you can easily outpace Ingo by using carrots strategically near the inside corners of the track. Be careful not to deplete all your stamina carrots at once so you maintain top speed until the finish line.
Enraged by his initial loss, Ingo will immediately challenge you to a second race, betting Epona herself on the outcome. Defeat him a second time using the same inner-track racing strategy to claim permanent ownership of the mare. Upon winning, Ingo will lock the gates of the ranch in a desperate attempt to keep you trapped inside.
Escaping Lon Lon Ranch with Epona
With the main exit locked shut, you must build up enough speed on Epona to jump over one of the surrounding fences. Line up your run toward the outer walls or the front entrance barrier, using a carrot boost right before impact. Epona will leap gracefully over the obstacle, securing your freedom and unlocking her for the remainder of your journey.
Once escaped, playing Epona's Song anywhere across Hyrule Field will summon her to your location instantly. Riding her allows Link to cross long distances quickly, jump over broken bridges, and shoot arrows while mounted. Mastering her controls enhances your efficiency when tackling remaining quests across Hyrule.
