Mike Toberer is a lifelong muleman, professional packer, trainer, and disaster response leader whose passion for mules has shaped both his career and his calling. As the owner of Mountain Mule Packers, Mike has spent decades teaching the art and science of mule packing, wilderness travel, and backcountry logistics. He has earned multiple world champion packing titles and is widely respected for his expertise in training both mules and people to work safely and effectively in challenging terrain.

In 2012, Mike and his family relocated from California’s Central Valley to North Carolina, where he began working as a federal contractor training elite Special Forces units in mule packing and backcountry operations. Through Mountain Mule Packers, he has helped preserve traditional packing skills while equipping military personnel, first responders, and outdoor enthusiasts with practical knowledge that remains invaluable today.

Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene in 2024, Mike founded Mission Mules, a Christian disaster relief organization that utilizes pack mules to deliver supplies, hope, and encouragement to communities cut off by natural disasters. When roads were impassable and conventional vehicles could not reach those in need, Mike and his mule string stepped in, carrying food, water, medical supplies, and essential resources into some of the hardest-hit areas of Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. What began as a local response has grown into a multi-state and international disaster relief ministry serving communities affected by hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and other emergencies.

As President of Mission Mules, Mike combines practical preparedness with a strong faith in God, believing that every mule, every volunteer, and every load packed has the potential to make a difference in someone’s darkest hour. His mission is simple: to use the unique abilities of mules to reach places others cannot and to remind those facing hardship that they are not forgotten.

When he’s not teaching, training, or responding to disasters, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife Michele, their four children, grandchildren, and the remarkable mule string that has become the heart of both Mountain Mule Packers and Mission Mules.

“Pack ‘em up, we’re following the Lord.”