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California

Off the Map: Horseback Riding in the High Sierra Nevada Wilderness

Program No. 10322RJ
Immerse yourself in the Sierra Nevada’s rugged beauty, surveying the secluded landscapes on horseback to learn about the region’s history, culture and legends from local adventurers.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Jun 9 - Jun 13, 2024
Starting at
2,099
Itinerary Note

Starts in Bishop and takes place near Benton, CA, focused on wild mustangs.

Jul 7 - Jul 11, 2024
Starting at
2,099
Itinerary Note

Starts in Lone Pine and takes places in the Golden Trout Wilderness.

Aug 25 - Aug 29, 2024
Starting at
2,099
Itinerary Note

Starts in Bishop and takes place in the John Muir Wilderness.

Sep 8 - Sep 12, 2024
Starting at
2,099
Itinerary Note

Starts in Bishop and takes place in the John Muir Wilderness.

DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Filling Fast!
Jun 9 - Jun 13, 2024
Starting at
2,259
Itinerary Note

Starts in Bishop and takes place near Benton, CA, focused on wild mustangs.

Jul 7 - Jul 11, 2024
Starting at
2,259
Itinerary Note

Starts in Lone Pine and takes places in the Golden Trout Wilderness.

Aug 25 - Aug 29, 2024
Starting at
2,259
Itinerary Note

Starts in Bishop and takes place in the John Muir Wilderness.

Sep 8 - Sep 12, 2024
Starting at
2,259
Itinerary Note

Starts in Bishop and takes place in the John Muir Wilderness.

At a Glance

Deep in the heart of the backcountry, accompanied by just your horse and a small band of intrepid adventurers, marvel at the lakes, forests and flower-filled meadows of the High Sierra Nevada wilderness areas. Ride the rugged trails of these unblemished natural treasures on horseback as you imbue your own spirit with the peace and tranquility of the Inyo National Forest in June, Golden Trout Wilderness in July, John Muir Wilderness/Inyo National Forest in August, or the Hoover Wilderness in September. Learn about the Eastern Sierra’s human history and early exploration and gain historical insight into these beautiful wilderness areas.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Horseback riding approximately 5 to 9 miles a day, some experience preferred. Some easy hiking. Elevations of 9,000-11,000 feet. Early arrival to acclimatize to the high altitude is desirable. Hydration before and during the program is highly recommended to assist the body in adjusting to the altitude.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Experience the rugged grandeur of the beautiful and remote High Sierra wilderness led by pack station wranglers.
  • Learn various perspectives of the history, culture and tales of the High Sierras shared by expert leaders.
  • Enjoy an evening of live music around the campfire in a serene mountain setting under a canopy of stars.

General Notes

This program is part of our “Off the Map” series, exploring truly remote areas of the United States as a way to connect with local culture and landscapes, and disconnect with the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives. Our goal is to bring you to places that have limited access to Wi-Fi, cell service and other technology so you can enjoy authentic learning experiences without modern distractions. Location and wilderness area varies by departure. For your safety and for the health of the horses, this program has a participant weight limit of 225 lbs., unless weight is proportional with height. In order to ensure your comfort and safety while journeying into the wild beauty of California's Eastern Sierra, participants will be required to fill out a Rock Creek Pack Station rider information form that requests this information before participating in the program. Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All Experts
Profile Image
Vannetta Perry
Dr. Vannetta Perry is a retired educator and lifelong resident of New Mexico who is deeply rooted in the southwest. Her family homesteaded and ranched in Southwestern New Mexico and farmed in West Texas. As an educator, Dr. Perry worked in the university setting, teaching biology and directing science outreach programs. Her love for travel was sparked when she led research studies in developing countries. Since retiring, Dr. Perry has continued to share her love of travel and education as a travel director and leader.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Vannetta Perry
Vannetta Perry View biography
Dr. Vannetta Perry is a retired educator and lifelong resident of New Mexico who is deeply rooted in the southwest. Her family homesteaded and ranched in Southwestern New Mexico and farmed in West Texas. As an educator, Dr. Perry worked in the university setting, teaching biology and directing science outreach programs. Her love for travel was sparked when she led research studies in developing countries. Since retiring, Dr. Perry has continued to share her love of travel and education as a travel director and leader.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Mule Men: A History of Stock Packing in the Sierra Nevada
by Louise Jackson
Range of Light: The Sierra Nevada (National Geographic Destinations)
by Noel Grove, Phil Schermeister
Early Days in the Range of Light: Encounters with Legendary Mountaineers
by Daniel Arnold
A Passion for Nature: The Life of John Muir
by Donald Worster
The High Sierra: John Muir's Range of Light (Tetra)
by Arnot





Important registration tip:
If you want to attend the live lecture, please do not wait until the last minute to enroll.
If you enroll after a lecture is complete, we’ll send you a recording of the event.