McGee Creek Pack Station

These mules and horses love being on the trail - and we like going with them!

So many mountain trails to explore this summer!

Sweet summer days in the highcountry.

It is with a great deal of honor today that we get to award our long time U.S. Forest Service Permit Administrator, Michael Morse the 2021 "Ranger of the Year" award. The presentation will be given at the 71st annual National Forest Recreation Association Conference & Seminar today. This award, given annually since 1982 recognizes those Federal Land Management employees who exemplify service and dedication to recreation values that make America's public lands the cornerstone of opportunities for a strong outdoor heritage and tradition. This nomination was submitted by McGee Creek Pack Station and supported by numerous required declarations, including the Pacific Southwest Regional Forester and the Back Country Horsemen of California. Congratulations Michael!

It is with disappointment that we announce the closing of the Pack Station for the 2020 season. On Sunday evening 9/13, the smoke that rolled in, coupled with the ongoing US Forest Service closures, made it necessary to make the decision. We had been in a holding pattern but realized that it was inevitable for closures to continue. We hopefully have contacted all our remaining September reservations regarding cancellations. Thank you for understanding! At this time it is of utmost importance to be supportive of those in the line of fire who have so much at risk, be always vigilant and prepared, and to hold firefighters and all who are battling the blazes across the west in our prayers. Hard to believe given air conditions now but here is a fun early morning moonset photo from our lovely canyon home, taken just 2 weeks ago today.

Never forget, Never forgotten #9112001

You seriously want me to sit here for a picture when I really need to go munch on that grass? #ginnythemule

With the U.S. Forest Service required closure, we have some time to post a few pictures! So here is one from several weeks ago. Riding out from a trip, what do young packers do? Why pull out their cell phones at the one and only place to get service. #GenerationZ Because you must always get your text messages. #packers #thenextgeneration #lol

To all our McGee Creek guests, (pack trips and day rides) and friends. Unfortunately we have to announce that as of 5 p.m. today our Forest (and all Forests in California) have been closed to camping and many other uses. Additionally, 8 Southern California Forests including the Inyo & Sierra, (home to our operations) have been closed completely. This order will be reviewed on September 14th. On the heels of an incredibly busy Labor Day weekend, we have spent the last few hour...s calling as many of our guests with reservations as possible. We will keep everyone up to date as best we can. Thank you as well to those who have called inquiring about us - we are fine. While we are frustrated by this order in the midst of what can only be described as a bizarre year, we understand the reasoning behind it. Risks are high and far too many are at risk, including the firefighters across the State who are battling these blazes. Quite honestly we have had concerns about our horses and mules working in the smoke, so we feel this is the best course of action for today. At the bottom of this post is a link to the press release, (we can send along the actual order for those who would like to read it, just send along your email address to us at: [email protected]) On a personal note, our own Lee is on the SQF complex fire, well out of fire range, using pack mules to pack supplies into Wilderness for historic structure protection. Our prayers are with him and all the mule packers and the exceptional fire support guys who keep mules and packers safe. We are filled with grief over the loss of wildlife, and pray continually for safe return of all firefighters. https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r5/news-events/ Regional Order No. 20-07 USDA Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region Emergency Forest Closure

Who doesn’t want a snack on the trail? Long day’s call for occasional stops to refresh your belly. #easternsierra #highcountry #upperfishcreek #daysinthesaddle

Hey, look at that view. Adventures of a pack station crew on the trail. #adventuresofalifetime #packmules #packtrips #highsierra #horses #mules #daysinthesaddle #upperfishcreek #mcgeepass #sierravacation2020

When it’s been a long hot pack trip it’s ok to take a snooze in the shade while waiting for the packers. #mulesofinstagram #packtrips #sierranevada #johnmuirwilderness #baldwin #mcgee #highsierra #sierranevada

How about a bit of fresh air? Join us today for a ride up the canyon. Please visit our website: www.mcgeecreekpackstation.com for information on our protocols for your safety during this time. We look forward to having you join us soon!

When you’ve been social distancing for several months it’s good to get out and get some fresh air in the mountains! These happy girls agree! (Photo taken Summer 2018)

We are happy to announce that we will be open for the 2020 season on June 15th. Come join us for a trail ride or pack trip! Please check our website for current reservation and preparation information. We have diligently worked to develop and implement a protocol plan for safe operations for our guests and employees. Our plan has been approved by the counties of Inyo & Mono as well as our partners, the U.S. Forest Service and Sequioa-Kings National Park. We look forward to... seeing you in our spectacular Sierra as soon as you can join us! Most campgrounds are now open and additional lodging will be open very soon, so please call or email and we’ll see you this summer! www.mcgeecreekpackstation.com; Email: [email protected]; Phone: 769-935-4324 See more

Our obligations to our country never cease but with our lives John Adams, 2nd President of the United States. On this Memorial Day we remember and honor the service and sacrifice of generations of Armed Forces Patriots, those who gave the last full measure of devotion. With thanks and gratitude.