THE OUTFITTER'S LEGACY PROJECT
Young Mule Co.
Young Mule Co. is a youth horsemanship and packing program built around work ethic, safety, and capability. We teach kids how to handle horses and mules the right way, learn backcountry basics, and grow into steady, reliable young people.
Who is this program for?
Ages 10 to 17
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Young Mule Co. is designed for youth of all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned ranch kids. Some participants may be handling stock for the first time, while others may arrive with a strong foundation. Both are valued here. Horsemanship is never fully mastered, and every horse has something new to teach. Youth who come in with advanced skills are encouraged to continue growing by stepping into leadership and helping guide others while still learning themselves. Through teaching, they sharpen their own skills, learn responsibility, and develop the confidence and character needed to become future leaders.
Ages 10 to 17
Location: 1225 Walters Lane Yreka, CA
The facility provides an indoor arena
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1 year Membership Fee: $250 per participant, $200 per sibling
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1
Packing 101
​Packing 101 introduces youth to the foundational knowledge and skill-building necessary to prepare for future work with pack animals in mountain environments. Instruction focuses on equipment familiarity, knots, balance concepts, and safe loading theory, supported by hands-on practice in supervised, non-expedition settings. Through team-based exercises, participants learn communication, responsibility, and how individual decisions affect a pack string as a whole. Emphasis is placed on animal welfare, patience, and sound judgment, with the goal of preparing youth for independent learning and participation in wilderness settings at a later stage.
2
Horsemanship
Horsemanship instruction meets each rider where they are, from beginners learning the basics to advanced youth refining their skills. Students develop safe handling, groundwork, riding fundamentals, and clear communication with their horse or mule. As skills progress, youth may have opportunities to observe or assist with colt starting and mustang training under close supervision. Horsemanship is taught as a lifelong practice built on patience, consistency, respect, and trust.
3
Bishop Mule Days
Youth interested in competition will have the opportunity to train for Bishop Mule Days competitive packing events. Instruction focuses on proper technique, efficiency, and calm, correct handling under pressure. Participants learn how to prepare themselves and their animals for a competitive environment while maintaining good horsemanship. Emphasis remains on sportsmanship, teamwork, and representing Young Mule Co. with professionalism and respect.
4
Wilderness Pack Trips
Youth interested in competition will have the opportunity to train for Bishop Mule Days competitive packing events. Instruction focuses on proper technique, efficiency, and calm, correct handling under pressure. Participants learn how to prepare themselves and their animals for a competitive environment while maintaining good horsemanship. Emphasis remains on sportsmanship, teamwork, and representing Young Mule Co. with professionalism and respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do you meet?
January - April will provide weekly get-togethers
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Do they need their own horse or mule?
No, we provide stock. Reach out to us at classes about bringing your own horse/ mule
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What if my child is nervous?
We start slow. Confidence is built, not forced.
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What should they wear?
Boots (hiking, work, cowboy style boots), jeans, long sleeves recommended, weather appropriate layers
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Can parents stay?
yes
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Is this a competitive program?
Kids can work toward competitions if they want, but the foundation is skill and character.
