PEBBLE CREEK PACK TRIP

Escape into Yellowstone’s hidden gem with our Pebble Creek horseback pack trip—a journey into one of the park’s most untouched and tranquil corners. This adventure begins at the Warm Creek Trailhead, where you’ll saddle up and embark on a scenic climb known affectionately as the "Stairway to Heaven." As we ascend nearly 1,000 feet over the pass, you’ll experience a heart-pumping ride through a series of switchbacks, offering glimpses of Abiathar Peak and Barronette Peak towering above the Soda Butte Creek drainage. While the climb is invigorating, the panoramic views of rugged mountains and serene valleys make every step worth it. At the top, the trail levels briefly, giving you a sneak peek into the expansive valley ahead before we descend 250 feet into the heart of Pebble Creek.

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Once in the valley, we’ll meander through open meadows blanketed with wildflowers, surrounded by 360-degree mountain views. The dramatic cliffs of Cutoff Mountain and Barronette Peak frame our path, while the gentle flow of Pebble Creek invites moments of reflection. After fording the willow-lined creek, we’ll arrive at one of Yellowstone’s most picturesque backcountry campsites—3P4. Here, we’ll set up camp amid breathtaking vistas, where wildlife often make surprise appearances. As the sun dips behind the peaks, gather around the campfire for a hearty, home-cooked meal and a delectable Dutch oven dessert. Drift off to sleep under a sky bursting with stars, serenaded by the sounds of the wilderness.

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Wake to the aroma of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon as the morning light spills into the valley. Spend your day fly fishing for native Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the pristine bends of Pebble Creek, or embark on a day ride to Bliss Pass for sweeping views of upper Pebble Creek and the snow-capped Beartooth Mountains. The trail to Bliss Pass crosses the 45th parallel—the line between Montana and Wyoming—before ascending 1,600 feet through mixed forests of spruce, fir, and pine. As you near the pass, the forest thins, revealing awe-inspiring vistas that truly live up to the name "Bliss." Be sure to scramble up a nearby hill for the best panoramic views of the amphitheater-shaped valley below and the distant Beartooth range. If a more leisurely day is your style, relax at camp with a good book and soak in the unspoiled beauty around you, watching for wildlife in the meadows as the horses graze.

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As night falls, gather once more around the fire for another mouthwatering meal and share stories beneath a starlit sky. Let the crackle of the campfire and the fresh mountain air lull you into a peaceful night's sleep.

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On your final morning, savor a hearty breakfast as the valley awakens with light and warmth. Pack up camp and begin your journey back through the picturesque meadows and towering peaks. As you descend from the backcountry, you'll carry with you not just the memories of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, but the timeless connection to Yellowstone’s wild, rugged beauty. This is more than just a trip—it's an experience that will stay with you long after you return to the hustle of everyday life.