A Beginners Guide to Hiking Without a Heavy Pack in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking deep into the Rocky Mountains—with sweeping vistas, wildflower meadows, and big-sky panoramas—but felt daunted by the idea of lugging a 40–60 lb. backpack, you’re in the right place.
Stock-supported hiking lets you experience iconic wilderness landscapes in Montana, like the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, without carrying all your gear. Instead, a seasoned pack string carry camp gear and provisions so you can focus on the trail, the scenery, and the adventure itself.
What Does “Stock-Supported Hiking” Mean?
Stock-supported hiking (sometimes called pack-supported hiking) is a style of multi-day hiking where horses or mules carry the majority of group gear and food between campsites, while hikers carry only their daypack with personal essentials.
This is an excellent approach to explore the vast wilderness that comprises the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.
How Stock-Supported Hiking Works on a Multi-Day Trip
On a guided stock-supported trip with Dropstone Outfitting:
- Your guides and packers meet you the evening before to go over gear and logistics
- The pack string will carry all group gear, food, 20 lbs. of your personal gear and camp supplies.
- You hike each day with only a light daypack.
- Stock meets you at camp, where meals, rest, and exploration await.
You still hike—this isn’t a ride—but the weight is on the stock, not your back, making the experience more comfortable and accessible for many hikers.
Why Stock Support Matters in Montana’s Backcountry
Whether you’re crossing the Rocky Mountain Front in June, pushing deep into the Trilobite Range in August or wandering through golden hills in September, stock-supported hiking lets you travel farther with less strain. In vast regions like the Bob Marshall Wilderness, long distances and rugged terrain are part of the experience; now carrying heavy gear doesn’t have to be.
Featured Trips: Explore the Best of The Bob with only a Daypack
Rocky Mountain Traverse — June 18–23, 2026
Kick off your summer with one of Dropstone’s personal favorites. The Rocky Mountain Front Traverse is a 6-day, stock-supported hiking journey through some of the most ecologically diverse terrain in Big Sky Country. Expect:
- Plentiful wildflowers and waterfalls
- Stunning daily vistas
- Wildlife-watching opportunities
- Deep drainages, geologic variety, and beautiful vistas
While rated moderately difficult, this trip is known for its enjoyable pace, with layover days built in to relax, explore, and soak up remote wilderness life in this seldom visited transition zone.
Sweet September in the Scapegoat — September 2–8, 2026
As summer fades and fall begins its brilliant sweep across the mountains, Sweet September in the Scapegoat invites hikers into one of Montana’s best-kept wilderness secrets. This 7-day stock-supported adventure explores:
- The towering Scapegoat Wall escarpment
- Clear rock pools and scenic river corridors
- High plateau hiking and crisp mountain air
- The changing panorama of fall colors and light
September brings temperate days and cooling nights, a burst of fall color beneath the Big Sky, and a spectacular transition from summer to autumn.
Both trips are guided, include knowledgeable leadership and stock support, and allow you to focus on the journey instead of the load.
Stock-Supported Hiking vs Backpacking
Backpacking
- Heavier packs (30–60+ lbs)
- Greater physical strain
- Gear and food management
Stock-Supported Hiking
- Just a light daypack
- Longer, more enjoyable hiking days
- Energy saved for exploration and scenery
In places like Montana’s mountains and wilderness plateaus, stock support turns long days into memorable experiences and can allow you to travel further into the wilderness then you might be able or willing to do on a backpacking trip.
Common Myths About Stock-Supported Hiking
“It’s only for beginners.”
Not true—many experienced hikers choose stock support to explore farther with more comfort.
“It’s easy.”
You still hike—you just hike lighter. And that saved energy just might allow you to push into places you wouldn’t have the endurance to get to.
“It’s hard on the animals.”
Dropstone prioritizes ethical animal care and lightweight loads. Our string loves to get into the mountains too!
Is Stock-Supported Hiking Right for You?
Stock-supported hiking may be a great fit if you:
- Want to see more of Montana’s backcountry with less physical burden
- Are new to multi-day trips
- Want better recovery at camp and more energy on the trail
Both the Rocky Mountain Traverse and Sweet September trips showcase the best of stock-supported travel and some of the most inspiring landscapes in the American West. We still have space available on both these summer 2026 stock-supported adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do hikers carry on these trips?
Your daypack with water, snacks, rain gear, personal items, and layers. Check out our Gear List.
Are stock-supported trips suitable for beginners?
Yes—many novice hikers find they can enjoy multi-day wilderness trips without the usual pack strain.
Do I need to be in great shape to hike Montana’s terrain?
While fitness helps, these trips are paced to balance challenge and enjoyment. We are always happy to discuss physical requirements and will be honest about expectations.
Who can I expect to meet?
Birds of a feather flock together. Our guests run the gamut; from old friends, to couples, to solo travelers but everyone has an interest or affinity for wild places and traveling with their feet. Free the legs and the mind will follow.
Ready to Explore With Less Weight?
If you’re curious whether stock-supported hiking is right for your next backcountry adventure, Dropstone Outfitting is here to help you plan and choose a route that matches your goals and timing.