Explore the beauty of Crowley Lake on a two-hour horseback or mule ride to Horsetail Falls. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this scenic adventure takes you through vibrant wildflowers and stunning fall colors.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders with basic fitness; ability to sit comfortably for two hours is recommended.
Wildlife
History
The area around Crowley Lake was historically used by local Native American tribes and later by early settlers for livestock grazing.
Conservation
McGee Creek Pack Station practices low-impact trail use and promotes wildlife preservation by educating visitors about the local ecosystem.
McGee Creek Pack Station
Explore the beauty of Crowley Lake on a two-hour horseback or mule ride to Horsetail Falls. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this scenic adventure takes you through vibrant wildflowers and stunning fall colors.
McGee Creek Pack Station is a trail ride outfitter based at Crowley Lake, California, offering guided horseback and mule rides that explore McGee Canyon, Horsetail Falls, and nearby scenic areas around Mammoth Lakes. The operation provides a range of ride lengths and experiences including one-hour and two-hour loops, a four-hour half-day ride, and a full seven-hour canyon tour along the historic Baldwin mining road.\n\nRides are offered on horses and mules and are tailored to different skill levels and group types. Family-friendly options include the Beaver Meadow half-day ride, which welcomes riders aged 6 and up. The Horsetail Falls Ride is a two-hour loop to Horsetail Falls and McGee Gorge, while the McGee Creek Loop provides a gentle, panoramic route along McGee Creek and views of the White Mountains. The McGee Canyon Tour covers longer backcountry terrain with lodgepole pines and seasonal wildflowers, and guests are encouraged to bring a packed lunch for the seven-hour excursion.\n\nIn addition to natural-history rides, McGee Creek Pack Station presents a specialty Lone Pine Film Festival Horseback Tour that visits iconic Alabama Hills filming locations accompanied by Western Film Historian Douglas Grieve. All descriptions focus on factual route highlights, scenery, and ride durations to help visitors choose the right trail experience in the Mammoth Lakes and Crowley Lake area.
Location
Crowley Lake, CA
Near Mammoth Lakes and McGee Canyon
Ride Lengths
1–7 hours
Short loops to full-day canyon rides
Family Friendly
Ages 6+
Children welcome on half-day ride
Ride Types
Horse & mule rides
Guided loops, canyon and film tours
Reserve a Horsetail Falls, McGee Canyon, or Beaver Meadow ride today — family-friendly options and specialty film tours available.
Wear Long Pants for Comfort
Long pants help protect your legs from brush and saddle friction during the ride.
Bring Water and Snacks
Pack a water bottle and light snacks to stay hydrated and energized on the trail.
Arrive Early for Orientation
Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before your start time for safety briefing and horse selection.
Dress in Layers
Weather can change quickly, so layering ensures comfort throughout the ride.
Sturdy Closed-Toe Shoes
Provides foot protection and stability while mounting and riding.
Wide-Brim Hat or Cap
Shields your face and eyes from sun exposure on open trails.
summer
Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment for changing weather conditions during the ride.
all
Light Rain Jacket
Provides protection against unexpected showers and wind.
spring|fall