Current Wrangler Opening

Position Overview

Position: Wrangler (Fall/Winter/Spring Seasons)
Location: Sundance Trail Guest Ranch, Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
Season: September 2024 - June 2025
Type: Seasonal Full-time with potential for advancement
Housing: Provided on-site
Unique Opportunity: Potential promotion to Head Wrangler for Summer 2025

About This Opportunity

We have an immediate opening for an experienced wrangler to join our team for the fall, winter, and spring seasons. This is a unique opportunity to work year-round in a beautiful mountain setting while developing leadership skills. The right candidate will have the opportunity to advance to Head Wrangler for our busy summer season (June-August 2025).

This position offers the chance to experience all four seasons at a working guest ranch, from colorful fall trail rides to winter sleigh rides, spring calving season, and potentially leading our summer wrangling program.

Primary Responsibilities

Horse & Livestock Care

• Feed and water horses twice daily (60+ head)
• Clean stalls and maintain barn facilities
• Monitor herd health and administer basic first aid
• Groom horses and maintain tack in excellent condition
• Assist with farrier visits and veterinary care
• Manage turnout schedules and pasture rotation
• Maintain hay and grain inventory

Guest Activities

Fall Season (September - November)

• Lead trail rides through aspen groves and mountain terrain
• Guide sunrise and sunset rides
• Conduct horsemanship lessons for guests
• Lead special event rides (full moon, photography, etc.)
• Share knowledge of local history, flora, and fauna

Winter Season (November - April)

• Lead horse-drawn sleigh rides
• Manage horse care in winter conditions
• Assist with winter activities (snowshoeing, etc.)
• Maintain winter water systems
• Snow removal from barn and corral areas

Spring Season (April - June)

• Resume trail riding programs
• Assist with spring foaling and calving
• Prepare horses for summer season
• Train younger horses and green-broke stock
• Lead wildflower and wildlife viewing rides

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years professional horse handling experience
• Proven ability to lead trail rides in varied terrain
• Experience with horse health care and basic veterinary procedures
• Excellent horsemanship and riding skills (all gaits, various disciplines)
• Valid driver's license
• Strong guest service orientation
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Physical fitness for demanding outdoor work

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage based on experience ($16-20/hour)
• Overtime pay for hours over 40/week
• On-site housing (private room in shared staff cabin)
• Meals included during work days
• Use of ranch facilities during off-hours
• Ski pass discounts at local resorts