Summer Kids Day Camps

Just for the Kids!

Summer horsemanship camp at Bearcat Stables

9am-3:30pm

June 29

July 13 & 27

$200/each

8-12 years old

 

 The day will begin at 9 am with the kids learning how to brush the horses and prepare them for a ride! They will learn about the different parts of the saddle and equipment used for trail riding. After the horses are saddled up, our knowledgeable wrangler staff will lead a 1.5 hour gentle nose to tail ride through Bearcat Stables property and the Cordillera trail network. Each child will get to ride their own horse! Bearcat will provide 2 guides on each ride for safety and instruction. Wildlife sightings are common- mule deer, birds of prey, and elk can be seen any given day. The trails go through meadows of wildflowers and explore a few aspen groves. A stop at the top of the trail will allow a picture of the kids with their horses and views of the valley below and beyond! Once back at the stables the kids will give the horses a drink and treat, before heading to lunch from the Smiling Moose Deli. After lunch additional horseman ship will be taught including parts of the horse, what they are sensitive to, favorite foods and much more. Roping lessons and yard games will be played and each child will get to paint a souvenir horseshoe as a keepsake!

Children 8-12 years old are invited to participate in our camps. To sign up or for more information call 970.376.4647

or email groupsales@bearcatstables.com

Bearcat Stables Summer Events

Bearcat Stables will be offering several events this coming summer! Whether you live here year round or visiting we invite you and your family to have fun this summer with us at Bearcat Stables! Our 25 acre historic Vail Valley homestead is a perfect way to spend time in the fresh mountain air! Horseback riding and pony rides are available at all of our signature events. 

Tuesday Night Chuck Wagon Dinners

Tuesday's June 14-August 30

 

Join Bearcat Stables for our outdoor summer BBQ's every Tuesday. Dinner starts at 6:30 but feel free to come and take a late afternoon ride with us before dinner. Live music, great food, and drink specials. Reservations are required for dinners and rides, call us at 970.-926.1578

Sunday Bloody Funday

Select Sunday's throughout the summer Bearcat Stableswill host a day outside in the Colorado Sunshine. Free live music, Bloody Mary and Mimosa specials, great food, and fun for the whole family. See our events calendar for dates, band info and more!

 

Sunday Yoga

Come stretch out with Nicole on Sunday's all summer long. Yoga will be held in our outdoor pavilion so pleaes dress accordingly, and bring your own mat. All levels are welcome to join this fun outdoor yoga session! $15/pp

Vail to Aspen 2016 5 Day Retreat

Vail to Aspen Summer 2016 dates available

 

There is still time to book your back country horseback ride of a lifetime. Our signature trip from Vail to AspenVail to Aspen has availability for August!

August 23-27 (5 day excursion)

August 30-September 2 (last trip for 2016)

 

Back by popular demand experience the 5 day trip of a lifetime! Spend a full day at the guest ranch enjoying a variety of activities and relaxation. Choose from a guided fly fishing excursion along the banks of the world renowned Frying Pan River, to a gentle yoga class to unwind and stretch out before heading back out on the trail, guided by Nicole Godley- all ability levels welcome. Need more relaxation? Indulge in an hour long massage while taking in the clean crisp air of the Colorado mountains. Let loose with your creative side and join us for a cocktails and canvass painting class. Gourmet meals and the luxuries of home await you on this unforgettable 5 day journey. 

 

www.bearcatstables.com

Email insummer@vail.net for more information or to book your seat today!

Backcountry Bliss

October is the time of year where everything seems to be in transition. Our summer in the Vail Valley has officially come to end. The days are shorter and cooler and we know that winter could make its appearance at anytime. Out at the stables we have been finishing up the season's trails rides and the elk herd has begun to return to the Squaw Creek Valley. 

This is also the time of year where we are thinking ahead...way ahead to summer 2016 for our signature backcountry horse back ride from Vail to Aspen. The 55 mile experience is like no other, spending 4 days and 3 nights in the White River National Forest. For summer 2016 we are offering a new one of kind adventure- and making one week of this excursion 5 days, allowing for an extra day at the guest ranch!

By popular demand we will offer the 5 day backcountry experience August 23-28. The additional day at the Diamond J guest ranch will allow you to relax and enjoy a variety of activities. Fly fish the Frying Pan River just outside of Aspen. The fly fishing here is some of the best in the world, with gold medal waters, boasting some of the most beautiful Colorado trout varieties you will ever have the chance to land. 

Frying Pan River Fly Fishing 

Yoga is another great option to stretch out those sore muscles from the ride. There is no better way to get in touch with the beautiful nature surroundings than with some deep breathing and mindful awareness of the awe and beauty that the backcountry surrounds you.

Yoga

Paint the world beautiful! Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words, and we will provide you with the canvass to express your experience with the paint brush. Professional instruction will be available, and with the Colorado Rockies as your back drop it should not be any problem to find inspiration.

Lastly massage therapy will be available. I have a feeling just about everyone on the trip will be happy to  relax to the sounds of the river and the breeze through the trees as the massage therapist works out all those knots. Relax and let go...

There is available space on our Vail to Aspen backcountry rides including the special 5 day retreat. For more information please visit our website:Vail to Aspen with Bearcat Stables or email insummer@vail.net 

Backcountry Rides by Bearcat Stables

Backcountry Horseback Riding 

The Colorado wildflower season is in full bloom, and one of the most spectacular ways to see all of the colors is on one of Bearcat Stables Backcountry Rides. Offering 3 and 4 hour backcountry rides daily leaving from the trail head at Big Park into the White River National Forest. 

The backcountry rides are great for those with intermediate to advance riding skills. Three hour backcountry excursions leave twice daily offering two experience. Big views and lush meadows are perfect for morning adventures and our afternoon outing will take you along Squaw Creek Valley, crossing the creek several times and winding through the cool shaded forests. Our 4 hour ride includes a gourmet lunch to be enjoyed in a wildflower covered meadow with views that are guaranteed to take your breath away. 

Can't get enough of the backcountry from the saddle. Bearcat Stables signature backcountry excursion is a four day and 3 night epic adventure. Leaving from the Vail Valley spend your nights in the 10th Mountain Division Huts and a private guest ranch while you make your way 55 miles to Aspen. Gourmet dinners are provided each evening and before you head out in the morning a delicious skillet breakfast will be prepared by our chef. Summer 2015 is full for the Vail to Aspen ride but summer 2016 reservations will open in September.

Family Fun in the Vail Valley

HORSEBACK RIDING IN THE VAIL VALLEY

at Bearcat Stables

"It's not just a trail ride, it's an adventure"

Sunny days, crisp mountain air, and exciting adventures greet us each day in the Vail Valley. Our hearts are captured instantly by the thrills, the breathtaking views, the quiet, the relaxed attitude, and the memories we make with our loved ones. 

Bearcat Stables is home to the Vail Valley's premier horseback riding outfitter. Rides are fun and exciting for the whole family at any level of experience.  First timers will fall in love with gentle ride and breathtaking views of Gore Range's snow covered peaks. Our backcountry ride is perfect to get lost in your thoughts as you stroll along Squaw Creek in the White River National Forest. 

Tuesday Night Extravaganza 

Horseback riding not for you? Join us at the stables for a chuck wagon dinner every Tuesday night starting June 23rd thru August! Families with all ages are welcome to enjoy our authentic Colorado homestead in the heart of the Vail Valley. A true western style BBQ is cooked up, live music, and plenty of games for all to enjoy.

Private Parties

Private dining experiences are perfect for families and groups looking to have an intimate dinner. Bearcat's Cabin and backyard are available to host small groups. Private chefs are available to cater to your every wish. Whether you are looking to have a laid back family style affair or 5 course culinary delight and wine pairing, Bearcat's Cabin will provide the perfect setting for any private dining experience.

Summer Events at Bearcat Stables

Summer Events at Bearcat Stables 

Searching for some good old fashioned family fun on a Tuesday night? Looking to stretch out the weekend just a little bit longer? Bearcat Stables has great events happening all summer long! Our events are always family friendly, and we always encourage you to get out for a trail ride. Free pony rides for the young buckaroos are always available at all of our summer events. We can't wait to see you there!

 Tuesday Night Extravaganza (June-September)

Every Tuesday Night starting in June join us for a night at the ranch. We will be cooking up a western fare Chuck Wagon Dinner, with all the fixin's and lots of cornbread! Start the evening off with a sunset horseback ride out to Bellyache Ridge. 1-2 hour rides are available before each Tuesday Night Extravaganza, and we offer complimentary pony rides for the little ones that can't reach the stirrups yet! Enjoy live music, s'mores by the fire, and plenty of yard games. A fun night out with the entire family!

**Reservations for horseback riding required, click for more info.

Sunday Funday! Starting Sunday's in June 2015

Who doesn't want to enjoy the Colorado sunshine on a Sunday afternoon. Laid back and casual each Sunday afternoon we will be grillin up burgers (veggie burgers available), and brats, pouring cold Crazy Mountain Brewery beers, and boogieing down to live music. Grab your buds and come on out to the ranch.  Enjoy a few rounds of horseshoes, soak up the summer sunshine, and relax, it's still the weekend!!!

**Reservations for horseback riding required, click for more info.

                                                   

June 9- Summer Event Open House

Bearcat Stables will be hosting an open house to show off our new pavilion and event venue. This event is free and open to hospitality professionals, wedding and event planners, DMC's and concierge. To RSVP or get more information please call our Event Sales Director Jill Ragaller, 970-376-3591 or email groupsales@bearcatstables.com 

July 26- Summer Brunch for the Horses 

Bearcat Stables proudly supports the Mountain Valley Horse Rescue, and we will be hosting their annual Summer Brunch for the Horses at the stables. Please join us and support the MVHR. Tickets to the event are $25/per person, and brunch is included. Bearcat Stables will be offering horseback rides all day, and 10% of proceeds will be donated to the MVHR!!! 

**Reservations for horseback riding required, click for more info.

Looking to host an event and need a venue? Bearcat Stables as a great rental venue with an authentic western vibe! We welcome you to connect with us today to discuss your next event at Bearcat Stables. groupsales@bearcatstables.com 

Trail Riding 101: Part 1- The Cowboy Hat

Here in the Vail Valley we get visitors from all over the world looking for an authentic 'Wild West' experience when they come to visit us at the Stables. Of course we are happy to oblige and share with our visitors and guests the 'Cowboy Experience'. Our Trail Riding 101 series will get you out on the trail ready for your adventure in comfort, style and preparedness (you just never know when its gonna rain in Colorado). 

The Cowboy Hat

The cowboy hat is big business in the world of cowboys. Your hat is statement of YOU, whether it is used for function or fashion. From the color you pick to the brim style you ride with, its all about you. That is the beauty of the Cowboy Hat, each and everyone is different. Here are a few helpful tips to get you matched up with your Cowboy Hat.

Felt or Straw? Felt hats have been booming since John Stenson started manufacturing felt hats back in the 1860's, Stenson is considered the modern inventor of the cowboy hat. Felt hats were more commonly used in the winter time to help keep your head warmer and dryer, but now felt hats are seen and used all year round. They come in a variety of colors too, black, beige and brown are the most popular, but if fashion is more your thing there is a hat color out there for you!

Straw hats were considered summer hats, they are lighter and breathe a little easier. Straw hat quality is determined by the tightness of the weave. Again straw hats come in a variety of neutral colors from beige to brown, but dyed straw hats are easy to find. Felt or straw is up to you, or get one of each to start your collection. 

Brim styles are plentiful, but most commonly brims are more narrow in the front and widen out towards the back. Some like to opt for the flat brim, presumably offering the best sun protection, and some hats the brim bends all the way up, maybe for the ladies to show off their big earrings. Whatever style you choose, there really is no wrong way to go, just keep the sides even or you're likely to hear "that's one ugly hat".  

When buying a hat they often need to be shaped, but you can find them already shaped for you. Shaping your style is as easy as steaming the hat and gently bending the brim until your desired shape is achieved. Here are a few ideas on brim and hat shapes

Decor, hat decor is easily the best way to show off your personality. There are tens of thousands of different hat bands and accessories out there. Bands range from simple leather bands that wrap around the crown of the hat to intricate pieces that have gems, beads, buckles, and feathers. Choose a band that is a reflection of you. You can always change out your band for a new look if you are going from the trail to a party in the same day. 

We recommend everyone bring out their hat, and show off your style when you come out to trail ride, or celebrate an event with Bearcat Stables. 

Vail to Aspen horseback ride

       

Bearcat Stables Vail to Aspen horseback ride

~3starry nights, breathtaking views, unforgettable~

now booking july and august 2015

Grand views, culinary delights, you, your friends, and the horses. Explore the back-country of the Colorado Rockies from the saddle. Our guides will lead you from our stables in the Vail Valley over the  snow capped mountain peaks and wildflower covered meadows to Aspen.

Stay at the historical 10th Mountain Division huts and a guest ranch along the way. This one of a kind experience has limited space and reservations are required. Please call 970-926-1578 to reserve your space today. For additional information please visit our website or watch our video on YouTube.

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