Should I Pack Horses or Pack Mules?

I am asked this question regularly. Coincidentally, the only people who ever ask this question are those who have never owned a mule. That says a lot. However, my standard answer is this: if you own a horse that is just standing around burning hay, pack him. But if you are shopping for a pack animal, buy a pack mule. Why? Remembering that stock users, including me, are opinionated, here are my reasons:

• Pack mules are born followers. A pack mule will follow a horse or another mule almost anywhere.
• While some pack horses have a tendency to daydream and step off the trail, pack mules know exactly where they are going to put down each foot.
• Pack mules carry a load without a lot of swaying and lunging.
• Pound for pound, pack mules are tougher than pack horses.
• I never have to shoe my pack mules. I just keep them trimmed, which saves me money.
• Pack mules know their job and want to do it.
• Pack mules generally have a 20-30% longer useful life than pack horses.
• Pack mules are easier keepers than pack horses for the most part.
• Last, but not least, they are cute.

Would you like to go shopping?

• TrailMax™ Mule Halter


• TrailMax™ Packer's Halter


• The Packer's Field Manual