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About Us

Why Choose Bearcat Stables

Bearcat Stables

Bearcat Stables has been providing horseback riding and family fun since 1998. We are a staple in the Vail Valley and recognized as one of the top stables in Edwards, Colorado. Featured in several magazines such as Vail/Beaver Creek, Food & Wine, Trail Rider, and American Way by American Airlines, we strive for 100% satisfaction in every aspect of our business.

Located on the historic Bearden Homestead, originally settled in the early 1900’s, you and your family may rediscover a piece of American history while enjoying the beauty of the Cordillera Valley from the back of a horse. From one hour to our four day trip to Aspen, we have something for everyone.

The ranch is nestled along Squaw Creek in Cordillera, which provided a lifeline for the Bearden’s as they raised cattle and grew crops during the 20th century. Ellis “Bearcat” Bearden was the last owner of the property and sold the ranch to Cordillera in the early 1990’s. It has since been completely restored and turned into a world class horseback riding stable open to the general public operated by Indian Summer Outfitters. There are two original cabins still present that you may tour, as well as photos and video of these American Pioneers. The ranch is also available for weddings, private parties, and sleigh ride dinners. We hope you join us in our little piece of Colorado heaven.

Sincerely,
Nicole Godley & Leeds Butcher
Owners/Operators

Meet The Wranglers

Nicole Godley

Owner

Nicole Godley has been an active equestrian for most of her life and is very passionate about horses, being active outdoors, and sharing her energy with others.

Leeds Butcher

Owner

Leeds Butcher brings his knowledge of guest services and his passion for the outdoors to help enhance the guest experience at Bearcat Stables.

Audrey McRae

Group Sales Manager

Audrey McRae began her wrangling career teaching children to ride at a horse camp in Cordillera before coming to work for Bearcat Stables in 2012.

Diane Haynes

Wrangler

Diane Haynes has been guiding the Vail To Aspen trips for over 20 years now and loves every minute of the 4-day adventure.

Kylee Gilbert

Wrangler

Kylee Gilbert has a passion for the mountains, horses, and feels that working at Bearcat Stables has been amazing.

Crysta Berntsen

1992-2019

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.

Meet The Ranch Dogs

Darla & Matilda

Mixed Kitties

Our newest addition to the pack at Bearcat Stables, meet Darla & Matilda.

Gunner

McNabb/Border Collie/Australian Shepherd

Gunner has been raised on the ranch by the pack and gets along nicely with everyone.

Augustus

Silver Lab

Augustus, “Gus”, is learning from the other furry staff on how to be a good ranch dog.

Zoe

Blonde Golden Retriever

Zoe is an energetic and friendly girl who loves to chase balls and sticks.

Coltrain

Terrier Mix

AKA “Cole”, Coltrain is a total goofball! He loves running around and playing.

Jackson

Silver Lab

Jackson is the big brother of Augustus. He is a gentle giant and loves to snuggle.

Red

McNabb

Red is a sweet ranch dog and mom to Gunner, Sage & Rita.

Rita

McNabb/Border Collie/Australian Shepherd

Rita is the sister of Sage & Gunner and lives with her momma, Red.

Sage

McNabb/Border Collie/Australian Shepherd

Sage is another one of Red’s puppies and is the biggest of them all.

Cassius

Silver Lab

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.

Nesta

Catahula/Austrailian Shepard

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.

Zip

Blue Heeler

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.

Avalanche & Brock

Blonde Golden Retriever & Chocolate Lab

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.

Kona

Australian Shepherd

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.

Boots

Australian Shepherd

In loving memory… gone but not forgotten.