Pack Horses & Mules for the Backcountry
Horses, mules, and other pack animals are commonly used in the backcountry of National Parks and other wilderness areas. They provide a convenient, low environmental-impact way to transport supplies and other materials. If you're thinking about a backcountry trip, you may wish to bring a pack animal. Just make sure you know how to care for it, what the local regulations are, and how to make sure your animal doesn't destroy the park.
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History
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Pack animals have been used for thousands of years and are still common in rural areas of undeveloped countries. Pack animals have often been used to transport food, water, and firewood and were an important part of group travel before the introduction of the automobile. Civilizations all over the world, from Medieval Europe to Ancient China and the Aztecs, have used some type of pack animal.
Effects
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Pack animals such as mules and horses are beneficial to humans in the backcountry, but they can have unintended environmental effects. Horses and mules are heavier and more destructive than llamas, goats, and donkeys. They can be very hard on wet trails, can damage trees if tied directly to them, and can damage delicate plant life. Pack animals may also be intimidating to people on foot.
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Considerations
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If you plan to use a horse or mule, make certain to check local rules and regulations before you set out. You may be limited in the trails you can use; may not be allowed to use campgrounds, pave roads, or developed areas; and may need to restrict the number of animals you bring. Most parks also have regulations about manure scattering, picketing locations, and feed.
Warning
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According to the National Park Service, as of January 2003, all straw and hay entering U.S. National Forests and Parks must be Certified Noxious Weed Free. This is to reduce the spread of invasive plants in wild areas. You may be required to show proof of certification for your animals' feed and can be fined if you bring ordinary straw and hay. Consider bringing pellets or other supplemental food instead of hay.
Misconceptions
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Many people believe that they should choose a horse of a particular breed or ancestry for use in the backcountry. While it's true that some breeds have characteristics that make them excellent as pack horses, not all members of that breed will be ideal. In addition, many horses are not registered, and their owners are simply guessing at their breeds. Choose a horse or mule with the stamina and other characteristics required on the trail, rather than going by breed.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit pack mule image by John Sfondilias from Fotolia.com
