moderate
2–6 hours
Suitable for those with basic fitness; no advanced riding skills needed but stamina for full day rides is helpful.
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.
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.
Reservations well in advance increase your chances of booking private trips or seasonal specialty rides.
Mountain weather shifts quickly; prepare with moisture-wicking base layers and a windproof outer shell.
The high-altitude sun can be intense—carry enough water and apply sunscreen before your ride.
Respect local fauna such as mule deer and marmots by letting guides manage horse behavior near animals.
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.
Rock Creek Pack Station practices sustainable horse packing and trail stewardship to minimize human impact on fragile alpine ecosystems.
Supports feet and ankles securely during horseback rides.
Provides protection from intense mountain sun exposure.
summer specific
Allows adjustment to changing mountain temperatures throughout the day.
Useful for unexpected rain or thunderstorms common in mountain areas.
spring|fall|summer specific