Master Backcountry Skills at the 2 Day Horse and Mule Packing Clinic in Bozeman, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to navigate rocky terrain and stand for extended periods during instruction.
Overview
Learn hands-on horse and mule packing skills near Bozeman, Montana with this 2-day clinic that prepares you for carrying gear safely through rugged backcountry trails. Perfect for hunters, campers, and outdoor adventurers looking to build confidence with pack animals.
2 Day Horse and Mule Packing Clinic
Pack in Your Own Camp!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the art of horse packing at Sunrise Pack Station's hands-on classes. Learn essential skills like saddle fitting, load tying, and backcountry stock management while practicing with real animals. This unique opportunity combines education and adventure, ensuring you gain confidence and expertise in the world of packing.
Sunrise Pack Station offers packing classes to teach you how to do your own horse packing. These classes will give you the opportunity to PRACTICE what you are learning on one of our animals. The topics discussed will include:
Working around pack stock, Choosing a pack saddle, Fitting the saddle to you animal, What to take, How to tie manties, Putting the load on the animal, Basket Sling, Crow's Foot, Arizona Hitch, Box Hitch, Diamond Hitch, Stringing animals together, and Back Country Stock Management
Adventure Tips
Arrive with sturdy boots
Good boots help you handle uneven terrain while working around horses and mules.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing
Mountain weather can change rapidly; dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Come with an open mind and readiness to learn
This clinic focuses on hands-on, practical skills that may be new to many participants.
Keep a safe distance around animals
Respect animal personal space to avoid startling them during packing exercises.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Merriam's turkey
History
Montana’s pack animal heritage dates back to the early 19th century when fur trappers and settlers relied heavily on horses and mules for accessing remote wilderness.
Conservation
The clinic promotes low-impact packing techniques to preserve fragile trail environments and minimize disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bozeman
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Durable hiking boots
Provide ankle support and traction while working around pack animals.
Layered clothing
Allows for temperature adjustments throughout changing mountain weather.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects you from strong sun exposure during outdoor sessions.
summer specific
Work gloves
Protects hands when handling tack and gear during packing tasks.