Five Days of Pack-String Travel: Saddle, Creek, and Wall-Tent Nights out of Jackson

JACKSON FISHING FIELD GUIDE

Five Days of Pack-String Travel: Saddle, Creek, and Wall-Tent Nights out of Jackson

A 5-day, 4-night guided pack trip from Jackson that combines multi-day horseback travel, fly-fishing opportunities, cowboy-camp meals and wall-tent camping—this guide lays out the itinerary, logistics, and packing essentials.

Five Days of Pack-String Travel: Saddle, Creek, and Wall-Tent Nights out of Jackson.

Duration
5 Days, 4 Nights
Location
Jackson
Operator
Willow Creek Horseback Rides
Category
Fishing
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set against the wide skies and alpine passes outside Jackson, this five-day Lewis and Clark Explorer Pack Trip follows rugged trails by horse, sleeps under canvas in wall tents, and punctuates long ride days with fishing, campfire meals, and regular wildlife sightings.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Riding over high passes to Granite Creek

The route includes sustained riding days that move the group from Spike Base Camp over a high mountain pass to Granite Creek, delivering expansive views for miles in all directions.

THE WAY OF LIFE

Cowboy camp meals and wall-tent nights

Evenings center on traditional cowboy meals served by a camp cook in the dining tent or around the fire, with participants settling into provided wall tents and cots for backcountry nights.

THE RECREATION

Fishing, hiking and wildlife from camp

The itinerary includes a free day at Granite Creek with options to fish nearby creeks and beaver ponds, hike local passes, or take shorter rides from camp while watching for moose, deer and other wildlife.

What the day feels like

What five days on the trail feel like

The trip unfolds as a classic pack-string backcountry traverse: check in at the Willow Creek location, trailer with the group to the Horse Creek Trailhead, then mount for multi-hour rides that move camp twice before returning to the trailhead. Between longer travel days and a full free day at Granite Creek, the pace alternates sustained riding with downtime for fishing, short hikes and camp-based relaxation.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.

1
Experienced RidersWell-suited: the itinerary includes multiple long riding days and a challenging high-pass ride, so riders comfortable spending several hours in the saddle will get the most from the trip.
2
Families with TeensPotentially a good match: the trip accepts participants ages 12 and up, but families should note the riding intensity and long days when considering younger teens.
3
Casual AnglersA strong fit for anglers who enjoy easy access from camp: fishing opportunities are built into the free day and en route stops, and fishing gear is provided.
4
Nervous or Inexperienced RidersNot ideal: one section of the route is explicitly described as not for nervous or timid riders, and participants should be prepared for rugged trail travel.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Pack long pants and closed-toe shoes for riding, rain gear, loafing shoes for camp, layered warm clothing (evenings and mornings can dip into the 40s), hat/sunglasses, toiletries and sunscreen, two 32-oz water bottles, swimwear and a lightweight towel, and a camera; cellular service is mostly unavailable.

Provided by the operator

Guides and the camp cook provide all meals and snacks, tents, sleeping bags, cots, horses and fishing gear; guests who prefer to bring their own sleeping bag and pillow should notify the operator in advance.

Camp gear and personal items

Bring extra socks and a change of clothing, chap-stick and basic medications, bug spray, washcloth and any personal toiletries; riding requires closed-toe shoes and long pants.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What time and where is check-in?

Check-in is at 8:00 a.m. at the Willow Creek Horseback Rides location (9500 S. Bryan Flats Rd, Jackson, WY).

How long is the trip?

The trip duration is 5 days and 4 nights.

What is the minimum and maximum group size?

Trips run with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10 people.

What gear and supplies does the operator provide?

The guide and camp cook provide meals, snacks, tents, sleeping bags, cots, horses and fishing gear.

Is there an age minimum?

Participants must be at least 12 years old.

Can I bring my own sleeping bag?

Yes—if you prefer to bring your own sleeping bag and pillow, notify the operator ahead of time.

Are there opportunities to fish on the trip?

Yes—fishing is available at stops such as Turquoise Lake and near Granite Creek and the beaver ponds, and fishing gear is provided.

Will I have cell service on the trip?

Cellular service is mostly unavailable in the backcountry areas visited on this trip.