Master backcountry packing and livestock management near Bishop, CA, with expert guidance to prepare you for remote wilderness travel.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness due to physical handling of pack animals and gear loading.
Wildlife
History
Bishop lies near historic Native American Paiute lands and was a key gateway during Sierra Nevada mining and logging eras.
Conservation
The school advocates Leave No Trace principles to maintain the natural balance and prevent trail erosion in the region.
Rock Creek Pack Station
Master backcountry packing and livestock management near Bishop, CA, with expert guidance to prepare you for remote wilderness travel.
Rock Creek Pack Station operates as a Sierra Nevada pack station and trail outfitter offering horseback rides, pack-supported hikes, and multiday backcountry trips. Based at Rock Creek, the outfitter runs a range of experiences: short All Day and Day in the Sierra rides at Cottonwood, family-focused Parent & Child Trail Rides, seasonal specials like Fourth of July and Fall Color Trail Rides, and extended wilderness journeys including 3-day, 4-day, 7-day, 11-day, and 31-day expeditions along the John Muir Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and routes into Yosemite National Park and the John Muir Wilderness.
Riders aged six and up are welcome on select rides, and safety measures accommodate younger participants. Trips combine riding, fishing, and camping with opportunities to learn basic horse care and pack-stock skills. Hilton Lakes trips camp near Davis Lake and explore upper lakes and alpine meadows; Yosemite itineraries traverse Virginia Lakes, Twin Lakes, and scenic passes to secluded high country camps. Multi-day John Muir Trail and Pacific Crest Trail offerings cover long-distance travel over alpine terrain, wildflower valleys, and trout fishing in remote lakes and streams. Rock Creek Pack Station also supports hiking with pack stock, allowing hikers to extend range while carrying gear. Booking information, seasonal schedules, and packing recommendations are available through the pack station. The station emphasizes safe, family-friendly backcountry access and memorable outdoor experiences across the Sierra backcountry, from single-day scenic rides to month-long wilderness treks. Guests can photograph wildlife, watch alpine sunsets, and return home with lasting outdoor memories and new skills.
Routes
John Muir + Yosemite
Iconic Sierra trails and wilderness
Family Friendly
Ages 6+
Rides available for young riders
Trip Lengths
Day–31 days
Short rides to epic thru-rides
Pack Stock
Horse & pack stock
Hiking and riding with pack animals
Secure day rides, family trail experiences, or long-distance John Muir Trail departures — limited space on peak dates.
Practice Safe Animal Handling
Always approach pack animals calmly and stay aware of their body language to prevent accidents.
Pack Efficiently
Distribute weight evenly and secure loads tightly to keep animals comfortable and balanced.
Respect Local Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from native species to avoid disrupting their habitat or behavior.
Minimize Camp Impact
Use designated trails and campsites to protect fragile alpine meadows and waterways.
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Provides protection and stability when managing livestock over uneven terrain.
Durable Gloves
Protects hands during rope handling and animal packing.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
spring
Hydration System
Necessary to stay hydrated during physically demanding outdoor training.
summer