Please note that these represents the planned itineraries. Weather or other factors may affect the choice of campsites and daily travel. All decisions are made by the Head Packer with attention to the safety and comfort of guests and stock.

Sample Itinerary: Evolution Valley Trail Ride

Day 1: Rock Creek Pack Station to Mono Creek
Arrive at Rock Creek Pack Station by 7:00 AM where your gear will be weighed, and you will be served breakfast. Your personal vehicles will be left in the pack station parking area. The pack station will have a pre-packed lunch for you.
Leaving Rock Creek Pack Station, our route follows the Mono Pass Trail which ascends Mt. Starr to 12,045’ Mono Pass. During the first part of this section one has a panoramic view of Little Lakes Valley, an area with more than twenty lakes framed by towering mountains. The final rocky ascent achieves the barren landscape of Mono Pass, five miles into the ride. The route starts an easy descent past Summit Lake to views of Pioneer Basin, Hopkins Basin and the northern Sierra range. The trail switchbacks down past Trail Lakes to Golden Creek where we enter the heavier timber and headwaters of Mono Creek. Passing the junction to Pioneer Basin, the trail reaches the bottom of the canyon. We will cross streams cascading into Mono Creek, ride below majestic Mono Rock, and pass through a series of meadows to our camp near the creek. This area was once the center of the Native American summer trading camps.
Riding approx. 11 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Mono Creek

Day 2: Mono Creek to Quail Meadows
Our route continues to follow Mono Creek west as it cascades down to through several life zones with groves of lodgepole pine giving way to Jeffrey and juniper pine forest and, finally, aspen thickets. Lush meadows nourished by lateral streams break up the forest ride with the naked granite walls of the glacial cut valley rising almost 2,000’ above the valley floor. Our five-mile descent along the creek is blocked by a rocky knoll, requiring us to switchback up to the junction with the John Muir/Pacific Crest Trail (JMT). Our path follows the JMT south, following the North Fork over a mile before turning right at the bridge to follow the Lake Edison Trail ½ mile to Quail Meadows.
Riding approx. 8 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Quails Meadow

Day 3: Quail Meadows to Bear Creek
We return to the JMT, crossing the bridge to the south side of Mono Creek. The trail follows the creek briefly before starting a long series of switchbacks up the shaded north side of Bear Ridge, gaining 2,000’ over the next three miles. The trail levels out briefly and then begins a descent dropping 1,000’ over two miles to the Bear Creek drainage with superb mountain views to the right. Over the next hour, our route to camp follows Bear Creek as at alternates between cascades and pools through forest and meadows.
Riding approx. 9 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Bear Creek

Day 4: Layover
You could use this layover day as a rest day, but Bear Creek abounds with excellent options for day excursions.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Bear Creek

Day 5: Bear Creek to South Fork of the San Joaquin River
We continue to follow the John Muir/Pacific Crest Trail south, rising above tree line to ride along the shore of beautiful Marie Lake before easily climbing to 10,860’ Seldon Pass. The views from the pass, both north and south, warrant a stop to take in the majesty of the Sierra. Remounting, the trail begins a long descent past Heart Lake and between the Sallie Keyes Lakes before reinterring the trees. Some six miles and 2,200’ below the pass, you will follow the cutoff trail for the Muir Trail Ranch and then turn left at the junction with the Florence Lake Trail to our camp on the San Joaquin River. Remember that junction, because there is a hot spring near the other side of the river.
Riding approx. 11 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near San Joaquin River

Day 6: San Joaquin to Evolution Valley
Our day begins with an easy ride along the San Joaquin River, reconnecting with the John Muir/Pacific Crest Trail in ½ hour. The trail crosses the bridge over Piute Creek to enter Kings Canyon National Park and soon follows the edge of the rushing river before crossing another bridge to the deep forest at the head of Goddard Canyon. We cross yet another bridge to start the 800’ climb along Evolution Creek to Evolution Valley. A beautiful cascade is the reward near the top. Our route continues into the valley to our camp, alternating between forest and large meadows with the creek meandering through the grass.
Riding approx. 11 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Evolution Valley

Day 7: Layover
The meadows of Evolution Valley are expansive. This is a great day to fish the river, wash out some clothes, read a good book, or follow the unmarked trail from Colby Meadow toward McGee Lakes.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Evolution Valley

Day 8: Evolution Valley to Little Pete Meadow
Our route continues the gentle wander through the meadows of Evolution Valley before climbing 950’ on forested switchbacks to Evolution Lake. The view of the lake and surrounding mountains is simply spectacular and deserves a stop to take in the majesty of the Sierra. The trail follows the east shore of Evolution Lake and then climbs steadily past a series of lakes, gaining 1,300’ in 6.5 miles to the 11,955’ Muir Pass. The terrain is open and rocky, encircled by the towering peaks. Austere, tremendous, stark, primeval, all apply to this pass and the barren surrounding peaks. Leaving the pass, the trail drops down through equally stark terrain past Helen Lake and more unnamed lakes. The flora will slowly return, first as alpine vegetation, then stunted trees, and finally, at the lower lake, forest. In all, we drop more than 3,000’ over six miles to our camp at the edge of Little Pete Meadow.
Riding approx. 18 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Little Pete Meadows

Day 9: Layover Day
This is a comfortable camp at the edge of the Middle Fork of the Kings River. There is good fishing, bathing pools, and beautiful views. While this is a great camp to rest after the long trip over Muir Pass, a trip down canyon toward Grouse Meadow is available for those interested in exploring this picturesque canyon.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camping near Little Pete Meadows

Day 10: Little Pete Meadow Over Bishop Pass
This is the way to finish a trip through the Sierra. The John Muir/Pacific Crest Trail follows the Middle Fork of the Kings River for ½ hour to the Le Conte ranger station and the junction of the Bishop Pass Trail. We leave the John Muir/Pacific Crest Trail and switchback up first through forest and then rocky meadows with wonderful views across Le Conte Canyon. The trail climbs steadily to gain 2,000’ in three miles before arriving at the meadows surrounding the lakes of lower Dusy Basin. Our route continues to climb another 1,200’ past lakes, rocky slopes, and alpine meadows surrounded by the magnificent peaks of Dusy Basin to 11,972’ Bishop Pass. The trail drops down 2,100’ from Bishop Pass through a series of meadows and along a chain of beautiful lakes to reach the trailhead near the north end of South Lake. We will continue along the trail to the waiting trucks below Parchers Resort.
Riding approx. 16 miles
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

-----------------------

Sample Itinerary: Mono Creek Trail from Rock Creek (not offered in 2022+) - subject to changes

Day 1: Rock Creek to Mono Creek
Leaving the Pack Station (10,000 ft.), our route follows the Mono Pass Trail which ascends Mt. Starr to Mono Pass (12,000 ft.). During the first part of this section one has a panoramic view of Little Lakes Valley, an area with more than twenty lakes framed by towering mountains including Mt. Morgan (13,748 ft), Bear Creek Spire (13,705 ft), Mt. Dade and Mt. Abbott. During this climb to Mono Pass, the trail goes through meadows with scattered limber pine and wild flowers, crosses a few small creeks and then climbs above timberline. At all times there is an unrestricted view of the overwhelming landscape.
After crossing the pass, the route starts an easy descent going by Summit Lake; immediately afterwards, Pioneer Basin, Hopkins Basin and the northern Sierra range comes into view. The trail proceeds down past Trail Lake to Gold Creek where we enter the heavier timber and headwaters of Mono Creek alongside which we travel through a long valley with green meadows, wild flowers, stretches of lodge-pole pine, continually broken by small feeder creeks coming from tributary watersheds. Imposing Mono Rock towers over the valley as we head down Mono Creek.
We make camp near the confluence of one of the many streams cascading into Mono Creek. Majestic Mono Rock towers over the canyon to the south. There are a series of meadows and camping areas from Fourth Recess to Hopkins Meadow. This area was once the center of the Native American summer trading camps.
Riding approx. 5.5 hours ( about 10 miles)
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Mono Creek

Day 2: Layover Day
Great areas to explore from a central camp alongside of Mono Creek. Side trips available to Third Recess Lake, Fourth Recess Lake, Hopkins Basin and Pioneer Basin.
Exploring Hopkins Basin to Lower Hopkins Creek, which is a climb, is a 1 hour ride from the confluence of Mono Creek and Third Recess Creek. Once at the meadow, there is a trail that climbs straight up to Lower Hopkins Lake (about a 20-minute ride). Lower Hopkins Lake is the most beautiful lake in the Sierra – if sets on a high shelf, you would never know it’s there unless you have been there before. To make a circle route, continue up the inlet stream and drop over a small hill to Hopkins Creek. The green meadows, winding crystal blue creek winding through the meadow and the red talus slopes of Red Slate Mountain make Hopkins Pass one of the most colorful vista points of the trip. The views looking south over the Recesses are awesome. Carpets of shooting stars, buttercups and yellow flowers alternate with the lush meadows dotted by gushing springs.
Third Recess Lake is a forty-minute hike or ride. This canyon opens up south of camp and provides a remote basin to explore.
Fourth Recess Lake is a thirty-minute trek up Mono Creek and Fourth Recess Creek. This is an easy hike for those not wanting to spend much time on the trail.
Pioneer Basin is a one hour ride to Mud Lake (Pioneer Lake #1). This wide-open basin has six lakes with Golden, Rainbow and Brook trout. An ideal day trip is to follow the streams and meadows to Lake #4, cross country over to Lake #5 and circle the basin following the shores of Lake #3, #2A and Lake #2. This sub-alpine region represents the finest in high mountain meadows, flowers and panoramic views of the Sierra.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Mono Creek

Day 3: Hopkins & Mono to First Recess
Traveling west to the John Muir Trail, ride through several life zones with groves of lodge pole pine giving way to the Jeffrey and Juniper Pine Forest. The trail parallels Mono Creek cascading to the side of the route. There are a wide variety of flowers, shrubs and trees as we descend to the large White Fir forest and tall aspens of First Recess. We head down for lunch at a secluded camp overlooking a lake beneath the smooth polish granite cliffs of this narrow valley of lower Mono Creek canyon. We commonly see bears, eagles and deer in the meadow visible from the ridge where we camp. Outstanding fishing for golden trout in Mono Creek near First Recess.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at First recess

Day 4: First Recess to Camp near Third Recess and Mono Creek
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Third recess

Day 5: Layover
Beautiful meadows and a quiet pond invite a leisurely hike. Alternatively, you can ride to one of the few remaining log cabins in the wilderness. A day ride to Second Recess and fishing in Mills Creek are options, as well. Outstanding golden trout are waiting for you in Mills Creek and in Mono Creek, near camp.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Third recess

Day 6: Mono Creek to Rock Creek Pack Station
The ride up Gold Creek and back to Mono Pass seems easier on the way home. Lunch at Trail Lake. The views of Abbott, Dade, Mills and Bear Creek Spire frame the view as we crest Mono Pass and turn the corner to view the countless lakes in Upper Rock Creek. The views of Wheeler Ridge, Rock Creek Lake and Boundry Peak are in view as the trail winds its way alongside the westside of the canyon. 
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

-----------------------

Sample Itinerary: Virginia Lakes - subject to changes

This trip passes many lakes and creeks, so available drinking water is not a problem in normal water conditions. Be prepared for creek crossings. Most of the crossings can be made on rocks or logs

Day 1: Virginia Lakes to Virginia Canyon
Arrive at Virginia Lakes Pack Outfit by 7 AM. Your gear will be weighed and you will be served breakfast. Your vehicle will be left in the parking area of the pack station for the duration for the trip.
You will be ferried one mile from the pack station to the trailhead.
The trail follows the north side of Blue Lake and then climbs fairly steeply in open forest to Cooney Lake in the first mile. The trail climbs 750’ past the Frog Lakes on shale slopes to a saddle at mile 2.6. The rocky path descends steeply to the Green Lake Trail junction at mile four. Turn left at the junction toward Summit Lake and climb 170’ in 0.4 miles to the lake. The trail drops steeply as it enters Yosemite National Park, turning into a gentle descent down through Virginia Canyon after the junction to Virginia Pass. The path down the canyon is through lodgepoles and meadows, with areas of trees downed by avalanches during high snow years. Camp is about 3.2 miles down canyon from the Virginia Pass junction. Virginia Canyon is a destination in itself, but two layover days allow day trips to the beautiful Miller Lake and McCabe Lakes.
Riding about 9.2 miles, 1,550’ gain, 2,650’ loss
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Virginia Canyon 

Day 2: Layover - possible day trip to Miller Lake
The day starts with a gentle descent down Virginia Canyon to the junction of the Pacific Crest Trail at mile 0.8. The trail to the right continues down the canyon before climbing 1,000’ fairly steeply up Spiller Creek to a saddle at mile 4.6. Wonderful views to the west open up as the trail undulates another 1.4 miles to Miller Lake. The lake is shallow which makes it a good swimming lake. There are wonderful views across the canyon of the Tuolumne River as far as the Cathedral Range to the south from near the outlet of the lake or the low dome to the west of the lake. Return to camp by the same route.
Riding about 8.6 miles round trip / 4.3 miles, 1,300’ gain, 500’ loss to Miller Lake
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Virginia Canyon 

Day 3: Layover - possible day trip to McCabe Lakes
Follow the trail down to the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) at mile 0.8. Turn left, crossing Return Creek and McCabe Creek and then climb 570’ through forest in one mile to the McCabe Lakes junction. Follow the trail to the left, climbing an additional 730’ in 1.5 miles to the lake.
Riding about 6.8 miles round trip / 3.4 miles, 1,300’ gain, 150’ loss to Lower McCabe Lake
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Virginia Canyon 

Day 4: Virginia Canyon to Tuolumne River
Follow the trail down to the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) at mile 0.8. Turn left, crossing Return Creek and McCabe Creek to climb 570’ in one mile to the McCabe Lakes junction. Continue right to follow the PCT through open forest to a long meadow at mile four and then reinter the forest to continue the descent to the Tuolumne River at Glen Aulin. Leave the PCT before crossing the bridge, at mile 8.8, following signs toward Waterwheel Falls. A very brief climb offers a beautiful view down the canyon. Be sure to look behind you for views of Tuolumne Falls and Wolf Cascade. The trail drops along a cascade to follow a serene section of the Tuolumne River for a mile to our camp.
Riding about 9.7 miles, 800’ gain, 1,700’ loss
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp 

Day 5: Last Day
Return to Glen Aulin, turning right at mile 0.9 to follow the PCT toward Tuolumne Meadows. Ignore the wooden bridge crossing Cold Creek immediately to your left that goes to the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp. Continue straight to cross the Tuolumne River on a metal bridge and then climb steeply for 0.2 miles to the May Lake junction. Continue left to follow the PCT another 0.2 miles to the base of Tuolumne Falls. Ignore your last-day urge to rush to the trailhead and leave the trail at the base of the falls to spend some time enjoying the power of the water. The trail swings away from the river twice, returning after a quarter mile to a series of cascades before crossing the river on a bridge at mile 2.2. A brief climb up a riprapped trail brings you to a magnificent view of northern Yosemite. Watch for the Little Devil’s Postpile on the opposite side of the river as you leave the viewpoint. The path enters the forest, emerging at times to cross the polished rock at the base of a dome or touch the river with views of the Cathedral Range across the meadow. The trail crosses Dingley Creek at mile 3.7 and Delaney Creek at mile 5.3. A junction just past the Delaney Creek crossing shows the stables to the left and the PCT to the right. Most hikers follow the PCT, passing the Soda Springs connector, mile 5.9, and the John Muir Trail (JMT) junction, mile 6.1, before following a trail to the left to the stables parking lot, mile 6.2. If you pass through a gate and arrive at a gravel road, you missed the side trail. Follow the road to the left to the stable parking lot.
Plan to meet the driver at Tuolumne Meadows stables for 1:00 pm to return to the Virginia Lakes Pack Outfit station.
Riding about 6.5 miles, 1,050’ gain, 200’ loss
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

-----------------------

Sample Itinerary: History of the Sierra - subject to changes

Binoculars and gloves are useful for this trip!
Ride open to anyone aged 13 years and older.

Day 1: Horseshoe Meadow Trailhead to base camp (specific campsite location will be dependent upon the ground conditions)
Meet at 7am at the Cottonwood Pack Station for breakfast and prep to ride. (It is suggested that camping out the night before at Horseshoe Meadow Campground will help with acclimatization to the 10,000’ elevation).
We head east through a beautiful Lodgepole pine forest adjacent to meadows with Belding ground squirrels. We then ride switchbacks to Cottonwood pass at 11,000’ then start down toward out base camp at Big Whitney Meadow (10.000’). The views beyond show peaks of the Great Western Divide in Sequoia National Park where Big Horn sheep again roam in their historic range. At lunch we will discuss the Geology of the Sierra Nevada and the incredible forces that carved them, including rivers and glaciers.
After we settle into camp and have an incredible dinner, we sit around the fire and discuss weather, climate... (Should the weather forecast show clouds for the next days we may have our astronomy night tonight). The calls of the frogs and coyotes at night are sublime.
Meal included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Basecamp

Day 2: Rocky Basin lakes
Breakfast and then an introduction to birds and bird biology. We will walk through a variety of environments, creek, meadow, forest, and the all-important edges where these areas come together. Bring binoculars.
We’ll have made our lunches and now take a day ride to Rocky Basin lakes. The spectacular double headwall is unique in the glacially carved Sierra and in these lakes are where endangered Yellow-legged frogs have been reintroduced. The trail crosses meadows and forest and begins a climb. Along the way we can see Alpine paintbrush, Evening primrose, carpets of red and yellow monkey flowers, shooting stars, buttercups, columbine and more. At the lakes we will have lunch and talk about the Alpine environment and wildflowers. We will also learn about the early explorers of the Sierra.
That evening after dinner we will have the Wild World! Skins and skulls and stories about animals and their adaptations, including bear biology.
After the sun sets we will look at the Night Sky and learn the stars, planets, constellations, and the stories behind them. (Unless we have had to present this the night before).
Meal included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Basecamp

Day 3: Golden Trout Creek
Today’s day ride we will travel leisurely down Golden Trout Creek. The trail parallels the creek cascading to the side of the route and contains endemic Golden trout. There are a wide variety of flowers and shrubs as we descend. Before and after lunch, we will discuss the mixed conifer forests, trees, succession, and dendrochronology, the study of tree rings and what they can tell us.
In the evening we will have a twilight walk. How things change in the evening will be discovered as we use a Bat Detector to “hear” the many bats above us, our Night-Vision Binoculars, and Ultraviolet black light to search out night-time critters.
Meal included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Basecamp

Day 4: Siberian Outpost & History
After breakfast we will start our journey through time, following people from around the world and how they eventually came to the Sierra Nevada. Who were they, what did they hunt, gather and eat? Who did they trade with? Then you will learn how they survived by participating in activities that have been lauded as some of the most fun of the trip. You will learn to use an actual atlatl, an ancient spear thrower, and throw them at a target. As your skill quickly increases, there is always a friendly competition as to who will “bring home the supper!” Then we will learn to make arrowheads. Obsidian and flint chert, and ancient and modern tools will be provided as you learn this craft and gain an appreciation for how difficult it is. Bring leather gloves.
After lunch we will ride to the Siberian Outpost. A ride through our glacially-carved valley brings us to a delightful little used trail to Siberian Outpost where we enter Sequoia National Park. This open boreal plateau surrounded by trees is a place Paleo-Indians hunted. Arrowheads have been dated by park archaeologists to over 6.500 years-old. We will learn about the minerals in the granite and in particular, gold. The history of the Gold Rush and how gold was mined will be discussed. Then lunch as you relax in the peace of the mountains.
That evening in camp we will again sit around the campfire. Your guide will have a guitar and provide song books and stories on our last night in camp.
Meal included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Basecamp

Day 5: Last Ride
We break camp and head out along our entry trail to Cottonwood Pass (5 hour ride). Lunch just below the pass will allow a final thought on conservation and preservation that made this backcountry possible.
Meal included: Breakfast & Lunch

-----------------------

Sample Itinerary: Northern Yosemite - subject to changes

Day 1: Tuolumne Meadows to Glen Aulen
We ride north on the Pacific Crest Trail from the largest meadows in Yosemite. The trail follows the Lyell Fork of the Tuolumne River. The cascades and water falls as we head to Glen Aulin make this one of the most scenic rides in the Sierra.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Glen Aulen

Day 2: Cold Canyon to Matterhorn Canyon
The morning ride goes through meadows and alternating forest before we switchback through the Hemlock Forest to reach Virginia Canyon. We travel through wildflowers, meadows and small lakes before reaching the deep Matterhorn Canyon. The deep granite canyon has beautiful campsites.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Matterhorn Canyon

Day 3: Matterhorn Canyon to Smedberg Lake or Neal Meadow
This remote part of Yosemite has beautiful vistas of glacial polished mountains, lush meadows and wildflowers. We climb to the top of Benson Pass and meander down to Smedberg Lake. Volunteer Peak frames the panoramic view to the west. Rodgers and Neal Lake are only a short ride from the lake. The group will camp to be able to enjoy the excellent fishing and many ponds, lakes and streams to enjoy for the two nights.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Smedberg Lake or Neal Meadow

Day 4: Layover Day
Great fishing for large rainbows. There are many secluded meadows and places to explore from camp.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Smedberg Lake or Neal Meadow

Day 5: Smedberg Lake to Lower Kerrick Meadow
We descend to Benson Lake and climb up through the manzanita to Seavy Pass. This is an enchanting area of small ponds, streams and trees. At Kerrick Creek the trail heads east to a camp in Kerrick Canyon. Small granite domes rise out of the canyon and it seems like a miniature Yosemite Valley.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Lower Kerrick Meadow

Day 6: Lower Kerrick Canyon to camp near Upper Kerrick
The trail winds up through a series of meadows to a camp near the crest of the Sierra. Once at camp spend the afternoon at Pealer Lake or exploring the Buckeye Pass area.
Riding approx. 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Lower Kerrick Meadow

Day 7: Upper Kerrick Canyon to Twin Lakes
We exit Yosemite National Park and wind our way down to Twin Lakes.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Kern River & Golden Trout - subject to changes

Day 1: Horseshoe Meadows to Little Whitney Meadow
Guests meet at Cottonwood Pack Station for gear drop off, breakfast and trip orientation. After breakfast our crew will introduce you to your surefooted riding animal (horse or mule) and teach you how to safely ride in the backcountry. Shortly after saddling up we hit the trail; turning our backs on civilization and entering the vast Golden Trout Wilderness. Settling into stride with our animal we traverse the massive Horseshoe Meadow which sits below Trail Pass (10,500 ft), the highest point of our journey. We switchback through groves of ancient Foxtail Pines climbing toward Trail Pass where we will be rewarded with stunning views of the Golden Trout Wilderness. We cross the Pacific Crest Trail at the top of the pass then switchback down towards Mulkey Meadow for lunch. From here, relatively flat single track trails cut through sprawling meadows allowing riders to appreciate the isolated beauty of the Golden Trout Wilderness. We follow Golden Trout Creek through Tunnel Meadow to our first night. There will be time to fish for brightly colored golden trout in their native waters before dinner. We enjoy a hearty meal around a warm campfire while watching our horses and mules graze in the nearby meadow.
Riding approx. 14.5 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Little Whitney Meadow

Day 2: Little Whitney Meadow to Kern River
Packers and wranglers gather the stock at first light while our cook serves hot coffee and breakfast around the campfire. After breakfast, guests will have time to fish while the packers break down camp and load the mules. Shortly after leaving Big Whitney Meadow we drop off the Kern Plateau and begin our descent towards the Kern River. We cross the picturesque Natural Bridge then continue down into the canyon below. The suspension bridge crossing the waters of the Kern marks the entrance to Sequoia National Park; our backcountry home for the next few days. A scenic hour of riding upriver leads us to camp situated along the bank of the Kern. Guests will have the opportunity to make some casts before dinner and hopefully catch a much sought-after Kern River Rainbow. We will enjoy another delicious backcountry meal around the campfire while listening to the Kern’s rushing water below camp.
Riding approx. 10 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Kern River

Day 3: Layover
A layover day allows guests to fish and explore the world class fishery surrounding camp. Genetic testing has proven the fish living in these waters are the purest strains of the Kern River Rainbow, an isolated subspecies of rainbow trout and close relative of the Golden Trout. Due the remote location and difficult access to this section of the Kern, the river’s many pools hold large rainbows eager to bite. Guests may spend the day fishing or relaxing around camp enjoying the amazing setting. Tonight’s dinner will surely be full of fish stories and sharing pictures of the day’s catch.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Kern River

Day 4: Layover
An additional layover day allows guests to explore the river farther upstream from camp. We will ride above the junction of Rattlesnake Creek and spend the day fishing excellent pocket water and glassy runs near Upper Funston Meadow. Those seeking a more relaxing day may continue riding to the Kern River Hot Springs to soak in the hot pools before returning to camp for dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Kern River

Day 5: Kern River to Little Whitney Meadow
Today we climb out of the Kern River Canyon and return to our first night’s camp at Little Whitney. Guest may spend the afternoon stretching their legs and exploring the rustic cabins of the historical Little Whitney Cow Camp or fishing for Golden Trout before dinner.
Riding approx. 10 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Little Whitney Meadow

Day 6: Layover
We spend the layover day riding to nearby Volcano Meadow and fishing the meandering waters of Volcano Creek. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife “the Volcanic Creek strain of California golden trout is considered to be the most genetically pure population within the native range.” This infrequently visited area of the Golden Trout Wilderness offers spectacular views and a high probability of wildlife sightings. Due to the lack of visitors and fishing pressure, the beautiful Goldens of Volcano Creek are plentiful and willing to bite. We spend our last night enjoying the star filled sky above camp and sharing stories around the campfire.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Little Whitney Meadow

Day 7: Little Whitney Meadow to Horseshoe Meadows
Unfortunately, our adventure must come to an end and we return to the pack station at Horseshoe Meadows. While riding through the lush green meadows leading back to Trail Pass, we can’t help but wish to spend another week on the trail. Reflecting on our journey, we have a new appreciation of what inspired John Muir to say “Going to the mountains is going home."
Riding approx. 14.5 miles
Meals included: Breakfast

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Whitney Trail Ride - subject to changes 

Day 1: Horseshoe Meadow to Lower Rock Creek
Day 2: Layover
Day 3: Lower Rock Creek to Guitar Lake
Day 4: Option to climb Mt. Whitney and back to Crabtree/Sandy Meadow
Day 5: To Rock Creek
Day 6: Out to Horseshoe Meadow

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Silver Pass Trail Ride (in July); Fish Creek Trail Ride (in September) - subject to changes

Day 1: Pack Station to Mono Creek
Leaving Rock Creek Pack Station (10,000 ft.), our route follows the Mono Pass Trail which ascends Mt. Starr to Mono Pass (12,000 ft.). During the first part of this section one has a panoramic view of Little Lakes Valley, an area with more than twenty lakes framed by towering mountains including Mt. Morgan(13,748), Bear Creek Spire(13,705), Mt. Dade and Mt. Abbott.
The Mono Pass trail is one of the oldest routes through the Sierra and was used by Native Americans many years before the first white man came through which was the California Geological Survey in the early 1860’s. During this climb to Mono Pass, the trail goes through meadows with scattered limber pine and wild flowers, crosses a few small creeks and then climbs above timberline. At all times there is an unrestricted view of the overwhelming landscape.
The flowers and trees of the east slope of the Sierra Nevada represent a different life zone than the westside. The lodge pole pine and aspen forest gives way to the white bark pine sub-alpine area. Lupine, Indian Paint Brush, white phlox, mustard and mountain mint cover the landscape as we travel to the top of Mono Pass. It is not uncommon to see families of marmots and the occasional coyote.
After crossing the pass…. a barren landscape…the route starts an easy descent going by Summit Lake; immediately afterwards, Pioneer Basin, Hopkins Basin and the northern Sierra range comes into view. The trail proceeds down past Trail Lake to Gold Creek where we enter the heavier timber and headwaters of Mono Creek alongside which we travel through a long valley with green meadows, wild flowers, stretches of lodge-pole pine, aspen thickets continually broken by small feeder creeks coming from tributary watersheds. The sounds of the Clarke nutcracker break the silence of the wilderness.
We make camp near the confluence of one of the many streams cascading into Mono Creek. Majestic Mono Rock towers over the canyon to the south. There are a series of meadows and camping areas from Fourth Recess to Hopkins Meadow. This area was once the center of the Native American summer trading camps.
Riding approx. 9 miles
Meals included: Dinner
Camp at Mono Creek

Day 2: Layover Day
Great areas to explore from a central camp alongside of Mono Creek. Side trips available to Third Recess Lake, Fourth Recess Lake, Hopkins Basin and Pioneer Basin.
Exploring Hopkins Basin…to Lower Hopkins Creek, which is a climb, is a one hour ride from the confluence of Mono Creek and Third Recess Creek. Once at the meadow, there is a trail that climbs straight up to Lower Hopkins Lake…about a 20-minute ride. Lower Hopkins Lake is the most beautiful lake in the Sierra – it sits on a high shelf, you would never know it’s there unless you have been there before. To make a circle route, continue up the inlet stream and drop over a small hill to Hopkins Creek. The green meadows, winding crystal blue creek winding through the meadow and the red talus slopes of Red Slate Mountain make Hopkins Pass one of the most colorful vista points of the trip. The views looking south over the Recesses are awesome. Carpets of shooting stars, buttercups and yellow flowers alternate with the lush meadows dotted by gushing springs.
Third Recess…in easy stages, Third Recess Lake is a 40-minute hike or ride. This canyon opens up south of camp and provides a remote basin to explore.
Fourth Recess Lake is a thirty-minute trek up Mono Creek and Fourth Recess Creek. This is an easy hike for those not wanting to spend much time on the trail.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Mono Creek

Day 3: Third Recess and Mono Creek to Silver Pass Meadow
Traveling west to the John Muir Trail, ride through several life zones with groves of lodge pole pine giving way to the Jeffrey and Juniper Pine Forest. The trail parallels Mono Creek cascading to the side of the route. There are a wide variety of flowers, shrubs and trees as we descend to the large White Fir forest and tall aspens of First Recess. A short jaunt over a ridge and the Mono Creek Trail meets the John Muir Trail (Pacific Crest Trail). Going up the North Fork of Mono Creek there are spectacular stands of larkspur, white columbine and tiger lily as we enter Pocket Meadow. The trail zigzags up beneath the tumbling falls coming from Silver Pass Lake. Camp is in a sheltered meadow with a winding creek that abruptly ends at the granite cliffs overlooking Pocket Meadow. The panoramic views of the mountains to the south make this a favorite camp of those familiar with the John Muir Trail.
Riding approx. 10 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp at Silver Pass Meadow

Day 4: Silver Pass Meadow to Cascade Valley
The trail follows the North Fork of Mono Creek through meadows as we climb to Silver Pass Lake. The trail skirts the eastside of the lake with a gradual ascent to the pass. The views to the south towards Bear Ridge, Volcanic Nob, Selden Pass and Seven Gables is one of the most beautiful panoramas in the Sierra. To the north, the wide expanse of Fish Creek, the North Fork of the San Joaquin River, the Minarets and southern border of the Yosemite are in view once we reach to the top of Silver Pass (10,900ft). The trail switchbacks down a wide granite and sub-alpine meadow bowl with five lakes in view. We descend to Upper Fish Creek through a forest of Hemlocks, Firs and lodge pole pine past small brooks and lush meadows.
The last two miles follows close to Fish Creek…many waterfalls and beautiful pools as we go down canyon through several meadows. Cascade Valley is an area of vast lush meadows. The name comes from being able to hear Minnow and Purple Creeks cascading into the valley to join Fish Creek.
Riding approx. 11 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp in Cascade Valley

Day 5: Layover Day
The layover day ride will head to Grassy Lake. Ride up Minaret Creek past Jackson Meadow to enjoy a day of fishing or swimming.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp in Cascade Valley

Day 6: Cascade Valley to Mammoth Mountain 
We switchback up 1500 ft. to Purple Lake to rejoin the John Muir Trail. The trail follows the ridge that overlooks Fish Creek and the San Joaquin River. Spectacular views back of the Silver Divide, Jackson Meadow and northwest of the North Fork of the San Joaquin River. The trail breaks west through small meadows in a Hemlock Forest as we climb to Duck Lake. We have lunch before rejoining the trail that follows up and around Duck Lake to Duck Pass (11,000). The trail to the roadhead descends 1800 ft. past many lakes with Mammoth Mountain and the wide expanses of the volcanic region of the eastern sierra in view to the north.
A van meets us to take us back to the pack station. Generally we arrive around 5 PM.
Riding approx. 10 miles
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Kern Peak Trail 

Day 1: Cottonwood Pack Station to Kern Peak Stringer (11 miles)
The path drops 100’ from the Cottonwood pack station to the Cottonwood Pass trail. Continue straight to cross Horseshoe Meadow toward Trail Pass. In one mile, the path will merge with a trail running along the east side of the meadow as it continues up 600’ through forest to 10,500’ (Trail Pass) and the junction with the Pacific Crest Trail. Enjoy views of the Golden Trout Wilderness before continuing straight, to drop 1,150’ in 2.3 miles through open forest to the trail junction at Mulkey Meadow, a favorite lunch spot.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Kern Peak

Day 2: Layover - Ride up towards Kern Peak Kern Peak (11.2 miles, 2,800’ gain and loss)
Kern Peak is one of the most prominent points in the eastern section of the Golden Trout Wilderness. Those who reach the top are rewarded with stunning views of the Great Western Divide and the Sierra Crest towering above the Kern River drainage to the north, the Panamint Mountains beyond Owens Valley to the east, and, on very clear days, the mountains of Southern California to the south. Travel to the top or turn back along the way after enjoying the forest and meadows along the trail.
The base camps are near the Kern Peak trail. Have your packer show you how to access the trail rather than returning to Junction 8920 to start the trip. The Kern Peak trail follows the Kern Peak Stringer, crossing the creek and side creeks, as it climbs steadily through the forest. The trail may fade at times, but there are tree blazes to mark the way. The path eventually veers away from the creek to climb steeply in open terrain to Kern Peak.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Kern Peak

Day 3: Kern Peak Stringer to Little Whitney Meadows
This a relatively short day of riding as we climb out of Ramshaw Meadows and ride to cross Golden Trout Creek below Tunnel Meadows. The trail follows Golden Trout Creek past Groundhog Meadow and past the Cinder Cone and ancient lava flows before arriving at Little Whitney Meadows.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Little Whitney Meadows

Day 4: Little Whitney Meadows to Big Whitney Meadows (8.6 miles, 2,250’ gain, 950’ loss)
Travel around the north side of Little Whitney Meadows to the trail that will follow Johnson Creek north, passing through Salt Lick Meadow before crossing to the east side of the creek. The trail climbs 1,900’ in five miles to a saddle east of Johnson Peak before dropping 200’ to the meadows of Barigan Stringer. Cross the creek to encounter two trail junctions.
The first junction is the Rocky Basin Lakes Trail; go to the right. The second junction in just 0.1 miles is the Barigan Stringer Trail; go to the left toward Big Whitney Meadow to climb 200’ over a low ridge before dropping 500’ to the Siberian Pass junction at the edge of Big Whitney Meadow. Follow the trail east toward Cottonwood Pass 1/3 mile to our camp on the right side of the trail.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Big Whitney Meadows

Day 5: Layover
Ride to Siberian Outpost or to Rocky Basin Lakes Riding north up to Siberian Pass gives riders the opportunity to see the Borreal Ridge. Looking north we see the barren Siberian Outpost. Stunning views north to the Great Western Divide and Mt. Whitney.
Or, those wanting a longer ride may want to head to Rocky Basin Lakes.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Camp near Big Whitney Meadows

Day 6: Big Whitney Meadows to Cottonwood Pack Station
Time to head home by traveling up Stokes Stringer and riding through Forests and streams to reach Cottonwood Pass.
We descend to Horseshoe Meadows to reach Cottonwood Pack Station.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Winchester Trail 

Day 1: Cottonwood Pack Station to Kern Peak Stringer
Day 2: Layover
Day 3: To Little Whitney Meadows
Day 4: Layover
Day 5: To Big Whitney Meadows
Day 6: Out to Cottonwood Pack Station

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Mt Langley Trail 

Day 1: Cottonwood Pack Station to Big Whitney Meadow
Day 2: Layover
Day 3: To Upper Rock Creek
Day 4: Layover
Day 5: Out to Cottonwood Pack Station

---------------------------------------

Sample Itinerary: Lake of the Lone Indian Trail

Day 1: Rock Creek Pack Station to Mono Creek (9 miles)
Leaving Rock Creek Pack Station (10,000 ft.), our route follows the Mono Pass Trail which ascends Mt. Starr to Mono Pass (12,000 ft.). During the first part of this section one has a panoramic view of Little Lakes Valley, an area with more than twenty lakes framed by towering mountains including Mt. Morgan(13,748), Bear Creek Spire(13,705), Mt. Dade and Mt. Abbott. The Mono Pass trail is one of the oldest routes through the Sierra and was used by Native Americans many years before the first man came through which was the California Geological Survey in the early 1860’s. During this climb to Mono Pass, the trail goes through meadows with scattered limber pine and wild flowers, crosses a few small creeks and then climbs above timberline. At all times there is an unrestricted view of the overwhelming landscape.
The flowers and trees of the east slope of the Sierra Nevada represent a different life zone than the westside. The lodge pole pine and aspen forest gives way to the white bark pine sub-alpine area. Lupine, Indian Paint Brush, white phlox, mustard and mountain mint cover the landscape as we travel to the top of Mono Pass. It is not uncommon to see families of marmots and the occasional coyote.
After crossing the pass…. a barren landscape…the route starts an easy descent going by Summit Lake; immediately afterwards, Pioneer Basin, Hopkins Basin and the northern Sierra range comes into view. The trail proceeds down past Trail Lake to Gold Creek where we enter the heavier timber and headwaters of Mono Creek alongside which we travel through a long valley with green meadows, wild flowers, stretches of lodge-pole pine, aspen thickets continually broken by small feeder creeks coming from tributary watersheds. The sounds of the Clarke nutcracker break the silence of the wilderness.
We make camp near the confluence of one of the many streams cascading into Mono Creek. Majestic Mono Rock towers over the canyon to the south. There are a series of meadows and camping areas from Fourth Recess to Hopkins Meadow. This area was once the center of the Native American summer trading camps.

Day 2: Layover Day
Great areas to explore from a central camp alongside of Mono Creek. Side trips available to Third Recess Lake, Fourth Recess Lake, Hopkins Basin and Pioneer Basin. Exploring Hopkins Basin…to Lower Hopkins Creek, which is a climb, is a one hour ride from the confluence of Mono Creek and Third Recess Creek. Once at the meadow, there is a trail that climbs straight up to Lower Hopkins Lake…about a 20-minute ride. Lower Hopkins Lake is the most beautiful lake in the Sierra – if sets on a high shelf, you would never know it’s there unless you have been there before. To make a circle route, continue up the inlet stream and drop over a small hill to Hopkins Creek. The green meadows, winding crystal blue creek winding through the meadow and the red talus slopes of Red Slate Mountain make Hopkins Pass one of the most colorful vista points of the trip. The views looking south over the Recesses are awesome. Carpets of shooting stars, buttercups and yellow flowers alternate with the lush meadows dotted by gushing springs. Third Recess…in easy stages, Third Recess Lake is a forty-minute hike or ride. This canyon opens up south of camp and provides a remote basin to explore. Fourth Recess Lake is a thirty-minute trek up Mono Creek and Fourth Recess Creek. This is an easy hike for those not wanting to spend much time on the trail. Pioneer Basin is a one hour ride to Mud Lake (Pioneer Lake #1). This wide-open basin has six lakes with Golden, Rainbow and Brook trout. An ideal day trip is to follow the streams and meadows to Lake #4, cross country over to Lake #5 and circle the basin following the shores of Lake #3, #2A and Lake #2. This sub-alpine region represents the finest in high mountain meadows, flowers and panoramic views of the Sierra.

Day 3: Third Recess and Mono Creek to Silver Pass Meadow (10 miles)
Traveling west to the John Muir Trail, ride through several life zones with groves of lodge pole pine giving way to the Jeffrey and Juniper Pine Forest. The trail parallels Mono Creek cascading to the side of the route. There are a wide variety of flowers, shrubs and trees as we descend to the large White Fir forest and tall aspens of First Recess. A short jaunt over a ridge and the Mono Creek Trail meets the John Muir Trail (Pacific Crest Trail). Going up the North Fork of Mono Creek there are spectacular stands of larkspur, white columbine and tiger lily as we enter Pocket Meadow. The trail zigzags up beneath the tumbling falls coming from Silver Pass Lake. Camp is in a sheltered meadow with a winding creek that abruptly ends at the granite cliffs overlooking Pocket Meadow. The panoramic views of the mountains to the south make this a favorite camp of those familiar with the John Muir Trail.

Day 4: Silver Pass Meadow to Jackson Meadow (8 miles)
It is a moderate 1500 ft climb to Silver Pass through high mountain meadows and spectacular unobstructed views of the Sierra to the south. Bear Creek, Selden Pass and the northern boarder of Kings Canyon National Park open up as we reach the summit of Silver Pass (10,800 ft). The northern view is of the Minarets, Mt. Ritter and Banner and the peaks that form the southern border of Yosemite National Park Riders meander down through several lakes and turn west to the Lake of the Lone Indian. It is a short climb until we enter the secluded lakes of the Silver Divide region. Travel through meadows and streams to reach Grassy Lake. Camp will be near a series of meadows and streams that join Minnow Creek from Olive, Grassy, and Wilbur Mae Lakes.

Days 5 & 6: Layover Days
Explore Olive Lake Basin, Grassy Lake, Wilbur Mae and Lake Peter Pande.
Camp is located in an isolated section of the Sierra on one of the largest meadows is in the central Sierra. It is an hour trip to Olive Lake through meadows, forest and streams. Spectacular waterfalls cascade off the granite canyon from Peter Pande Lake. For those looking for a full day hike, a knap sack trail follows west of Olive Lake past a series of lakes that allows you to circle back to camp past Peter Pande Lake. Great riding through meadows, forests to a wide variety of lakes near camp. Olive Lake is less than an hour and a half and a favorite trip is up canyon past Grassy Lake and climbing over to spend the day at Peter Pande.
Fishing is outstanding from the streams in the meadows near camp to unsurpassed lake fishing. It would take five days to visit the different lakes near camp.

Day 7: Jackson Meadow to Mammoth Lakes (13 miles)
Head north on the Minnow Creek Trail. It is a gradual descent until we turn east to drop into Cascade Valley. Fish Creek is a large tributary of the San Joaquin River and we ford the creek in a beautiful meadow. We switchback up 1500 ft. to Purple Lake. The views of the creeks tumbling into Cascade Valley answer the question of how this region was named. We climb gradually to follow the ridge that overlooks Fish Creek and the San Joaquin River. Spectacular views back of the Silver Divide, Jackson Meadow and northwest of the North Fork of the San Joaquin River. The trail breaks west through small meadows in a Hemlock Forest as we climb to Duck Lake. We have lunch before rejoining the trail that follows up and around Duck Lake to Duck Pass (11,000). The trail to the roadhead descends 1800 ft. past many lakes with Mammoth Mountain and the wide expanses of the volcanic region of the eastern sierra in view to the north. A van meets us to take us back to the pack station.
Generally we arrive at Rock Creek around 5 PM.