Explore Wyoming’s mountains on horseback
Dates: August 29 - September 6, 2026
Tuition covered by NOLS + Operation Equine.
Application Required. Contact [email protected] with questions. Obtain application materials directly from Operation Equine Director Michelle Kaye ([email protected]).
NOLS and Operation Equine are combining forces to offer our inaugural WARRIOR pack trip together. Join a group of motivated peers for a unique Western adventure: horsepacking in the rugged mountains of Wyoming. Learn to travel and camp with horses as you also learn more about yourself and how to better manage your emotions and stressors as you explore the glacier-carved Wind River Range or the sweeping plateaus of the Absarokas.
We begin this 8 night/9 day adventure with a one night stay in Pinedale, WY, followed by two nights of camping at NOLS Three Peaks Ranch, before your backcountry expedition unfolds. Through the innovative merging of the Operation Equine WARRIOR Principles combined with the foundational Leadership Skills taught through NOLS, participants will build a strong community with fellow veterans and work on basic groundwork, horsemanship, and riding skills. Plus, you will learn horsepacking skills and increase your knowledge of outdoor camping skills with horses.
At the same time, you will learn and practice evidence-based mindfulness and stress-reduction strategies, learn how to be present and have agency over your own nervous system (even in high-stress situations), and practice compassionate communication with your fellow participants.
After two days at the ranch, we pack our panniers and head into the mountains, where we’ll put your new horsepacking skills and interpersonal skills into practice. Wake up early and enjoy the sunrise as you tend to your equine companions. Learn how to navigate challenging terrain with both your riding horse and your pack horse, as well as how to apply Leave No Trace principles when camping with horses. Find peace and understanding with fellow veterans around the campfire. Fall asleep in a tent under the stars, ready for the next day’s hard work and adventures.
On this expedition, you’ll discover that horsepacking is a great opportunity to grow your leadership and community-building skills in a new way. Practice effective communication—with both human and equine companions—and use horsemanship as a mirror for your own personal growth.
Challenge yourself to lead in uncertainty when faced with an unexpected situation. Gain insight into group dynamics and how to support a team in different roles while also navigating and managing your own nervous system.
Return home with a renewed confidence in yourself: with increased self-awareness, and with new tools and strategies to more successfully be the person you want to be in your family, your community, outdoors, and beyond.
NOTE: The Operation Equine WARRIOR Pack Trip with NOLS is designed for both beginners and experienced individuals. Everyone is welcome to join, regardless of skill level.
