Into the Wilderness: How to Prepare for a Backcountry Pack Trip in Montana

There’s something unforgettable about riding horseback deep into Montana’s wilderness, miles away from roads, cell towers, and anything resembling a schedule. At Specimen Creek Outfitters, our custom wilderness pack trips are designed to give you just that—an authentic backcountry experience where the only things on your to-do list are riding good horses, breathing mountain air, and relaxing around a quiet camp.

If you’ve never done a trip like this before, that’s okay. We’ve guided first-timers, families, solo travelers, and seasoned outdoorsmen alike. What they all have in common is the desire to experience Montana the way it was meant to be—unfiltered, peaceful, and unforgettable. Here’s what to expect and how to get ready so you can enjoy every minute.

Our pack trips are fully guided and fully supported. That means you don’t need to worry about hauling gear, cooking meals, or finding your way through unfamiliar terrain. We take care of all that. You’ll ride with one of our experienced guides, travel on well-trained horses, and sleep in comfortable camps set up in scenic locations—whether that’s along a quiet stream, beneath a stand of pines, or near a high mountain lake.

You can choose from a few different trip styles. Some guests like to ride to a basecamp and stay there for a few nights, with day rides and fishing or exploring in between. Others want to cover ground and see new country each day, setting up camp along the way. We customize each trip based on your preferences and what kind of adventure you’re looking for.

You don’t need to be an expert rider or a backcountry pro. Our guides will walk you through everything you need to know—from how to mount and sit comfortably in the saddle, to how to pack your gear for the ride. Our horses are steady, sure-footed, and experienced in the mountains. Many of our guests have never ridden a horse before their trip, and by day two they’re moving down the trail with confidence.

That said, being prepared helps you enjoy the experience even more. We recommend getting outside before your trip—go for walks, hike a bit if you can, and try to spend time being active outdoors. Riding uses muscles you don’t often train in everyday life, so anything that helps you get moving will pay off.

When it comes to packing, we’ll provide a list of what to bring. In general, you’ll want to dress in layers and pack light. The weather in the mountains can shift throughout the day—mornings might be cool, afternoons warm, and an unexpected rain shower can roll in at any time. Sturdy boots, a warm jacket, and good rain gear go a long way. Don’t forget your camera. You’ll want to capture the views you’ll be waking up to.

Meals are provided on the trip, and they’re hearty and filling—hot breakfasts, trail lunches, and dinners around the campfire. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions with advance notice, and coffee is always on in the mornings. You’ll sleep under canvas tents or the open stars, depending on the setup and time of year, with everything handled by your guide and crew.

What makes these trips special isn’t just the scenery—it’s the simplicity. No notifications, no crowds, no clock. Just trail time, campfire stories, and the feeling that you’ve stepped into a quieter, older version of the world. Wildlife is often spotted along the way—elk, mule deer, eagles, and more. The fishing in high alpine lakes can be excellent if you bring a rod.

We’ve seen guests come back year after year for these trips. Some say it’s the most relaxing thing they’ve ever done. Others say it challenged them in the best way. Everyone walks away with a deeper appreciation for the mountains—and the quiet you can only find when you ride into them.

If you're ready to explore Montana in a way most visitors never get to, a wilderness pack trip with Specimen Creek Outfitters is the place to start. We’ll handle the planning and the logistics—you just bring a sense of adventure, a few essentials, and a willingness to leave the modern world behind for a few days.