Western Life Outfitters

Western Life Outfitters operates guided hunts and backcountry adventures in the Wenaha-Tucannon wilderness of southeastern Washington. Dave and Sas Waldron have been running pack trips on horses and mules since the early 1990s, handling everything from drop camps to fully guided expeditions.

They specialize in three main hunts:

• •Elk Hunts: GMUs 169 and 166. General season spike elk available, plus special permits for archery, muzzleloader, and modern rifle. Hunters can apply for branch antlered elk tags through Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
• •Mule Deer: Big mountain bucks. All meat packing included with horses handling transport to and from camp.
• •Bear Hunts: Spring (April 15–May 31) and fall (September 1 onward) seasons in the Blue Mountains, where about 50% of bears are color phase. Spring tags require special permit applications due in early March.

• •Summer Pack Trips (2–5 days, customizable): Ride gentle mountain horses or hike trails through ridgetops, meadows, and mountain streams. Open to any age and skill level—families and friend groups welcome.

• •Summer Drop Camps (3, 4, or 5 days): Bring your own gear and food to the trailhead. They pack everything in via horse. You can ride their horses, bring your own, or hike. They retrieve you on the scheduled date.

• •Base Camps: No riding or hiking required. Stay at their camp while they handle chores. Includes wall tents with beds, wood stoves, meals, and access to Tucannon Lakes and river fishing.

Held annually the last Saturday in April at the Garfield County Fairgrounds in Pomeroy. Limited to 10 students for hands-on instruction. Topics include rope splicing, tying hitches, load balancing, equipment repair, campsite selection, and low-impact wilderness practices. Lunch provided.

Bay Shire Horses are part of their operation—strong, surefooted animals bred from a family legacy dating back to Mel Anderson's childhood in 1920s Oregon.

• •Contact: 509-843-1535 or toll-free 877-251-8535. Email: [email protected]. Based in Pomeroy, WA.