Every year, Priest River Valley Back Country Horsemen sets up a station to help educate the kids about pack animals on the trail. We use this opportunity to teach students how horses and mules are used in backcountry settings, including how they help transport supplies into remote areas where motorized access is limited or not allowed.
Students learn about:
- The role of pack animals in forest management, trail maintenance, and wilderness access
- Proper trail etiquette, including how to safely approach and pass pack strings
- Basic gear and equipment used in packing
- The importance of Light on the Land principles and minimizing impact on trails and surrounding ecosystems
Our goal is to build awareness, respect, and appreciation for both the animals and the people who rely on them to help maintain and enjoy our public lands. By engaging students early, we hope to inspire future stewards of our forests and backcountry traditions.