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Journey through historic McGee Canyon on horseback and witness stunning mountain vistas and vibrant fall colors. An unforgettable adventure amid Sierra Nevada wilderness awaits.
Journey through historic McGee Canyon on horseback and witness stunning mountain vistas and vibrant fall colors. An unforgettable adventure amid Sierra Nevada wilderness awaits.
Book with McGee Creek Pack Station
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by McGee Creek Pack Station · Crowley Lake, California
Nestled in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada, McGee Canyon offers a rugged escape into wildflower-laden valleys and towering lodgepole pines. McGee Creek Pack Station has been guiding outdoor enthusiasts through this scenic terrain for years, providing a top-tier horseback or mule riding experience that immerses visitors in the area’s natural beauty. The 7-hour guided tour follows the historic Baldwin mining road, a route steeped in local history and surrounded by striking vistas. Riders get sweeping views of distant mountain peaks and lush forest pockets, with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as mule deer and a variety of songbirds along the way.
One of the most captivating moments arrives in late September, when the landscape turns ablaze with fall foliage. The vivid reds, oranges, and golds make for perfect photos, turning an already memorable trip into a visual feast. The terrain varies from gentle inclines to more challenging sections, making this adventure accessible yet engaging for most fitness levels. To optimize your day, pack a lunch and some water, as you’ll want energy for the full trek.
McGee Creek Pack Station’s attentive guides ensure safety and foster a genuine connection to the wilderness, making it ideal for families, groups, or solo explorers eager for a true outdoors experience. Located near the small community of Lee Vining, this canyon tour provides a fantastic escape from the bustle of nearby towns and a chance to connect with Sierra Nevada’s timeless landscapes. Whether tackling the trail in summer’s lush fullness or soaking in the fall colors, this adventure offers a snapshot of California’s rugged, unspoiled beauty and a memorable day on horseback that’s perfect for outdoor lovers seeking authentic mountain terrain.
Moderate.
6–8 hours.
Moderate fitness required; participants should be comfortable with outdoor activity.
Yes, guides tailor the experience to accommodate riders of all skill levels, including beginners.
The 7-hour round-trip ride involves moderate activity but is manageable for most fit individuals.
Bring layers, a packed lunch, water, and camera for a full experience.
Yes, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot.
Absolutely, families with children aged 8 and above enjoy this adventure.
Guides will notify you of weather conditions; alternative arrangements or rescheduling may be available.
The Baldwin mining road was once a bustling route during California's gold rush era, now a scenic trail that reveals the area's rich history.
Guides follow Leave No Trace principles, helping preserve the area's pristine wilderness and minimizing environmental impact.
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.
Book with McGee Creek Pack Station