Horseback Trail Rides with Rock Creek Pack Station in Lone Pine - Mammoth Lakes

Horseback Trail Rides with Rock Creek Pack Station in Lone Pine

Mammoth Lakesmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for those with basic fitness; no advanced riding skills needed but stamina for full day rides is helpful.

Overview

Experience unforgettable horseback rides through the eastern Sierra Nevada with Rock Creek Pack Station near Lone Pine, CA. From day-long alpine journeys to family-friendly trips, discover a truly unique way to connect with the high country’s rugged beauty.

Details

Rock Creek Pack Station offers an authentic gateway to the eastern Sierra Nevada, set just south of Mammoth Lakes in Lone Pine, California. Known for its pristine environment and lesser-known trails, this pack station is a standout destination for horseback riders seeking immersive day trips and special rides that venture through dramatic mountain terrain and alpine lakes. Located near the Sierra crest, riders follow routes that wind along glacial valleys, through towering pines, and past rocky outcrops formed from ancient granite—hallmarks of the Sierra Nevada’s rugged geology. These rides showcase features such as Little Lakes Valley and Chicken Foot Lake, where reflective waters mirror jagged peaks, offering an intense connection to the landscape.

Rock Creek Pack Station distinguishes itself with a variety of well-curated trips. Their “Day in the Sierra” ride delivers a six-hour journey through backcountry trails, complete with a packed lunch featuring local specialties like Schatt’s Sheepherder Bread. Family-friendly options like the Parent & Child Trail Ride create accessible adventures, while seasonal specials—such as the Fourth of July and Fall Color Trail Rides—offer unique experiences tied to exceptional natural events.

The station is praised for its excellent care of horses and mules, knowledgeable and personable guides, and clean facilities free of typical ranch odors—a detail that enhances the overall experience. Guests often highlight the opportunity for private or small-group rides, adding a personal touch uncommon to larger, busier outfitters. With access to some of the Sierra’s best vistas, including views that rival Mammoth and the Tetons, Rock Creek Pack Station places riders directly into an environment both wild and welcoming.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging full day on the trail or a leisurely afternoon ride, this pack station provides a practical yet awe-inspiring way to traverse California’s high country on horseback, making it an essential stop for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the region.

Adventure Tips

Book Early for Private or Specialized Rides

Reservations well in advance increase your chances of booking private trips or seasonal specialty rides.

Wear Layers for Changing Mountain Weather

Mountain weather shifts quickly; prepare with moisture-wicking base layers and a windproof outer shell.

Bring Sunscreen and Hydration

The high-altitude sun can be intense—carry enough water and apply sunscreen before your ride.

Stick to Guide Instructions Around Wildlife

Respect local fauna such as mule deer and marmots by letting guides manage horse behavior near animals.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Chicken Foot Lake for pristine alpine views
  • Little Lakes Valley’s reflective waters and granite formations

Wildlife

  • Mule deer
  • Golden-mantled ground squirrels

History

The Rock Creek area has been traversed by indigenous Paiute people and was later developed as a pack station to support miners and hikers in the Sierra Nevada.

Conservation

Rock Creek Pack Station practices sustainable horse packing and trail stewardship to minimize human impact on fragile alpine ecosystems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunrise and sunset
Mid-morning for clear light

Best Viewpoints

  • Overlook at Little Lakes Valley
  • Edge of Chicken Foot Lake
  • Along granite ridge trails

What to Photograph

Alpine lakes reflecting peaks
Horses with Sierra backdrop
Wildflowers and pine forests

Recommended Gear

Riding boots or sturdy hiking boots

Essential

Supports feet and ankles securely during horseback rides.

Sun hat and sunglasses

Essential

Provides protection from intense mountain sun exposure.

summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows adjustment to changing mountain temperatures throughout the day.

Light waterproof jacket

Useful for unexpected rain or thunderstorms common in mountain areas.

spring|fall|summer specific