Discover Rock Creek Canyon on horseback with serene lake views or panoramic ridges on the 2 Hour Trail Ride—perfect for families and first-time riders looking for an easy mountain escape.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical condition suitable for sitting and light riding; no prior horseback experience required
Wildlife
History
Rock Creek Canyon has long served as a route for indigenous Paiute hunters and later settlers using horses in the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Conservation
The area emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile high desert and forest ecosystems for future riders.
Rock Creek Pack Station
Discover Rock Creek Canyon on horseback with serene lake views or panoramic ridges on the 2 Hour Trail Ride—perfect for families and first-time riders looking for an easy mountain escape.
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.
Book morning or afternoon for distinct views
Choose the 9:30 AM Ride for lake-side tranquility or the 2 PM Panorama for elevated vistas.
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet during mounting and dismounting; boots with a small heel are best.
Bring water and sunscreen
The trail is exposed in spots; stay hydrated and shield skin from high-altitude sun.
Notify guide of any horse-riding experience
Letting your guide know helps them assign a horse best suited to your comfort level.
Closed-toe riding boots or sturdy shoes
Provides secure footing and protects feet while riding.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Keeps you warm during cool mountain mornings.
spring
Sunscreen and hat
Protects from sun exposure at high altitude.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the two-hour ride.