Sombrero Ranches, Inc., Rex Walker and Freda Bishop

Sombrero Ranches is widely recognized as the titan of the Colorado outfitting industry, managing one of the largest and most respected saddle horse herds in the nation. With a history spanning over 65 years, the operation serves as a primary supplier for other outfitters, film productions, and the general public, specializing in everything from hourly trail rides to long-term horse rentals for backcountry hunting. Their vast network of locations includes their flagship stables in Estes Park, as well as specialized operations in Meeker, Craig, and Longmont, providing unparalleled access to the Rocky Mountain backcountry.

The outfitter is perhaps most famous for the “Great American Horse Drive,” a massive annual spring event where the family and a select group of riders move hundreds of horses over 60 miles of open range from their winter pastures to ranch headquarters. This event has become a bucket-list experience for riders worldwide, showcasing the raw energy and untamed beauty of the West. For hunters, Sombrero Ranches offers elite DIY and guided opportunities across Game Management Units 002, 023, 024, and 301, regions known for producing some of the largest elk and mule deer in the state.

The operation emphasizes a “no-frills,” authentic Western experience, intentionally avoiding commercialism to preserve the natural splendor of the lands they permit from the BLM and National Park Service. Whether delivering horses directly to a remote trailhead for a self-guided pack-in hunt or hosting thousands of tourists for a scenic mountain ride, Sombrero Ranches remains the gold standard for logistical expertise in the high country. Their commitment to sustainable land use and the preservation of “Western World” values has made them a cornerstone of Colorado’s outdoor heritage for over half a century.