Who are we?


We are a wilderness tourism company based in South Lake Tahoe, dedicated to providing our guests with unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors. Our focus is on creating safe and respectful interactions with the local wildlife, including black bears, coyotes, hares, bald eagles, and other native species that call Toyabe National Forest home.

Bear Back Riding Co was founded and is run by Mark Jons, a South Lake Tahoe native who has a deep love and respect for the wilderness and the animals that call it home. Growing up in the rugged terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Mark developed a strong connection to the land and its inhabitants.

With years of experience exploring the forests and mountains of the area, Mark has become an expert in navigating this challenging terrain and sharing his knowledge and passion with others. He takes great pride in providing guests with unforgettable experiences that are both safe and respectful of the natural world.

Mark’s commitment to the environment and the animals he encounters is at the heart of everything Bear Back Riding Co does. Whether it’s protecting the habitat of the black bears, ensuring the safety of the eagles, or simply respecting the natural rhythms of the wilderness, Mark and his team are dedicated to preserving this incredible natural resource for generations to come.

So if you’re looking for an adventure that is both thrilling and respectful of the wilderness, look no further than Bear Back Riding Co and the expert guidance of Mark Jons.

Our experienced guides will lead you through the rugged terrain of the forest, sharing their knowledge of the flora and fauna along the way. Depending on the tour you choose, you may have the opportunity to observe and, where appropriate, respectfully interact with the wildlife. This could include watching black bears foraging for food, spotting coyotes and hares darting through the underbrush, or marveling at the majestic flight of bald eagles.

At Bear Back Riding Co, we prioritize the safety of our guests and the environment. We follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize our impact on the wilderness, and we encourage our guests to do the same. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and wildlife encounter protocols, ensuring that you are in safe hands at all times.

Join us for an adventure in the wilds of South Lake Tahoe. Book your tour with Bear Back Riding Co today and discover the beauty of the natural world like never before!