Cowgirl Retreat — The Origin Story

The Cowgirl Retreat began in 2012 with a small group of women who saddled up and rode deep into the wilderness. We practiced yoga under the open sky, lingered over slow mornings with coffee, shared stories by firelight, and laughed over wine as the stars appeared — unbothered by city glow or time. We slept in big canvas tents warmed by a wood-burning stove, surrounded only by nature’s soundtrack.

What started as an experiment became a tradition. Each year since, we’ve gathered to unplug from the hustle, reconnect with ourselves, ride into the wild west, and eat soul-nourishing food around the table like family.

Meet Your Guide: Abbey Samuelson

For over a decade, Abbey Samuelson has stewarded this experience with a whimsical balance of ease, confidence, and deep-rooted wilderness knowledge. She has curated a trustworthy, fun-loving crew — a team that blends horseback exploration, creative expression, embodied movement, yoga, sisterhood, and unforgettable meals into something unmatched anywhere in the country.

Abbey’s relaxed yet intentional leadership style — born from generations of her family’s ranching and outfitting history — has placed this retreat at the forefront of wilderness cowgirl experiences nationwide. Riding deep into the Troublesome Basin for an overnight #wilderbliss immersion, guests quickly discover what happens when horses, yoga, art, and nature are combined:

Something powerful awakens.

The Land: Troublesome Basin, Granby, Colorado

The retreat takes place in the Troublesome Basin Wilderness, part of the historic Medicine Bow–Routt National Forest — one of the most enchanting and storied landscapes in the American West.

A Region Steeped in Legend

The name Medicine Bow comes from Native tribes who gathered mountain mahogany here to craft exceptional bows, and who held ceremonies — “making medicine” — to heal, celebrate, and connect. Over time, these traditions echoed into the region’s name, forever marking this forest as a place where transformation begins.

A Forest Between Worlds

The Routt National Forest stretches between Rocky Mountain National Park and Dinosaur National Monument, offering rugged beauty, sacred quiet, and a landscape that insists you slow down.

The Troublesome Basin encompasses more than 80,000 acres of timber, wildflower meadows, river drainages, and high-alpine peaks ranging from 7,500 to 12,300 feet. Our retreat camp sits in a roadless section accessible only by foot or horseback — a rare gift in today’s world.

The journey begins with a 45-minute guided horseback ride from the trailhead on seasoned, mountain-savvy horses suitable for both new and experienced riders. Once at camp, there is no cell service, no obligation — just presence.

This is where the noise stops, and the real listening begins.

Retreat Terms & Conditions

To reserve your space, a non-refundable deposit is required for each participant.

Balances are due no less than 2 weeks prior to the retreat start date.
Bookings made within 4 weeks of the retreat must be paid in full.

If payment deadlines are not met, Lavender Elephant reserves the right to cancel the reservation and retain the deposit.

Cancellation Policy

Refunds apply minus the deposit, based on the timeline below:

• 0% refund — cancellation 6 weeks or less before retreat start

• 25% refund — cancellation less than 8 weeks before retreat start

• 50% refund — cancellation more than 10 weeks before retreat start

Deposits do not carry forward to future retreats.

Program Adjustments

In the event of teacher changes, unforeseen circumstances, or situations beyond our control, substitute arrangements may be offered. Lavender Elephant is not liable for travel expenses, including airfare.

Discounts

Occasional promotional discounts may be offered at our discretion. These do not apply retroactively to guests who have paid in full.

Insurance

We strongly recommend travel, cancellation, and medical insurance for all guests.

Natural Disaster Clause:
Should a natural disaster or National Forest closure render the retreat site inaccessible, deposits will be refunded.

Early Departures

Any non-emergency early departure from the retreat is subject to an $800 exit fee, due to the cost and logistics of safely escorting guests out of the wilderness.

In Short

This retreat is not a vacation — it’s an initiation.
Into quiet. Into courage. Into wilderness.
Into the version of yourself that only appears when the world falls away.

• We will have a generator to recharge needed devices, however we do not have electricity through out the day, nor do we have reception.
• We have an emergency SAT phone on site if by chance it is needed.
• Staffing is First Aid Certified and/or NOLS WFR (First Responder Certified)
• Covered Latrines for a unique yet comfortable bathroom experience with the best view imaginable
• Bed Cots with foam mattresses
• Wood burning stoves
• Cool mornings, Hot days, Warm afternoons, Cool Evenings
• Fresh mountain spring water for drinking, located on site
• Intermediate - Advanced trail riding 

• 3 x nights accommodations in canvas tent with person bed & wood burning stove
• 3 x chef-prepared breakfasts
• 4 x chef-prepared lunches
• 3 x chef-prepared 3-course dinners
• Coffee, Non Alcoholic Beverages, Cocktails  
• Daily Meditation & Yoga Sessions
• Yoga Nidra
• Active listening & sharing circles 
• Sisterhood community of support and acceptance
• Horsemanship Clinics
• Extended horseback trail rides
• Creative Workshops
• Mini Hikes
• Personal Time 
• Opportunities for reflection, silence & solitude
• Horse Tack & Saddle is provided (if you'd like to bring your own, please let us know)
• Yoga Mats provided

• Travel Fees
• Travel Insurance
• Transportation to and from Ranch
• Personal Gear 
• Personal Snacks

• Headlamp
• Sleeping Bag (20 degree bag)
• Bed sheet for cot mattress
• Pillow & Pillowcase
• Water Bottle
• Sturdy boots with non-slip sole
• Camping Shoes
• Camping Slippers
• Hat, Light Scarf, Sunglasses
• Gloves to Get Dirty
• Sturdy Pants
• Waterproof Jacket
• Layers for varying weather
• Swimsuit/water shorts and towel
• Medications
• Baby Wipes/Clorox Wipes for personal care
• If you have personal snack food/beverages you would like to pack, please feel free.

Follow Us on Social Media!

Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/lavenderelephantretreats/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/lavenderelephantretreats/

Can I book my return flight to depart the Sunday we get out of camp?

- It's highly suggested that you fly out the following day. Horse time is always questionable and exiting Grand County to Denver on a Sunday can have heavy traffic.

Can I bring my own saddle?

- Yes you can but you don't have to and prefer to use our own.

Can I bring my own horse?

- We have a herd of horses and it's best due to liability & trail knowledge that we use our horses.

Do I have to saddle my own horse?

- You do not have to help saddle your horse but if you want to learn we are happy to have you assist, however always with closed toe shoes! 

What do I do if there's an emergency with my family or loved ones? How can they reach me?

- You can provide loved ones with our off site, Emergency Contact number. They contact that number directly, which is provided on the PDF you receive once booking is confirmed. This number then contacts our SAT *satellite* phone in base camp. 

Do I have to ride everyday?

- You DO NOT have to ride everyday so feel free to bring a book/hammock to create your own vibe. Our crew does pick a trail that works best for the collective.

What do you mean pack something sparkly?

- For those curious about "something sparkly", feel free to pack anything that sparks joy for you to wear on Saturday evening. JUST FOR FUN!

How do I pack my stuff?

- Please pack your items in a soft duffle for easy horse packin. No framed packs. We do want you to have your items consolidated. So if your duffle bag is too small please get a bigger one to fit your misc items like shoes and such. Your pillow and sleeping bag can be packed seperate.

Can I pack in my own beverages?

- All food/beverage needs to be in plastic. We can bring in a communal ice chests if enough people want to bring in extra snacks. We do supply snacks.

What's this fitted bed sheet for?

- The sheet we suggest bringing is to cover your wilderness mattress that goes atop your personal cot. 

What kind of sleeping back do I need?

- For August we recommend a 20 degree bag. You don't have to bring a "back packing sleeping bag" you can bring a roll up canvas/flannel lined sleeping bag.

What do you mean cute camp stuff?

- Feel free to pack any cute "camp tent" adornments for your liking. Special battery operated/solar operated twinkle lights, tapestry, or gadgets you love! Hammocks are a great addition.

Do I need my own yoga mat?

- We have yoga mats for your personal use but you can bring your own if you'd like

How are the bugs out there?

- Mosquito spray is a good idea!

How do I pack for the diverse weather?

- It's hot during the day, so tank tops and thin layers is nice. Always good to have a hat and a bandana. We strongly encourage bringing a raincoat/slicker on every ride. Each tent has a wood burning stove. Don't hesitate to pack a hat and those cozy evening layers.  As always our mountain climate changes quickly in the basin, being prepared is best!

Is there a shower?

- No. But feel free to bring a swimsuit/water shorts to take a cold plunge in the tiny cold plunge in the creek. We have access to fresh water and a handwashing station with a nail brush. If you bring soap just be sure it's biodegradable.

Whats this creative station?

- Over the years our little creative station has evolved into a free flowing activity of upcycled jewelry. It’s different every year and sooooo much fun! Feel free to pack in old jewelry to bring it back to life, or bring in other things like feathers & such.

How do I tip the crew?

- Tips are welcomed. It’s best to bring in cash and hand pass out any tips. We have a crew of 6 per retreat. Venmo's are shared as well.

What’s the suit and towel for?

- Our very own nature made cold plunge! Swim suit optional for the brave.

Please text me your name via 985-630-5256 so I can save your number & send coordinates! Text me with any and all questions, no question is silly.

We meet at Mavericks for 10am Thursday, 

15 E Agate Ave 

Granby, CO 80446 

United States

We can caravan to the trailhead and I would love to share direct coordinates to your phone so please text me. We do get permission to leave a few personal vehicles there at Mavericks for those that choose to do so. We suggest carpooling to reduce cars at the trailhead. The road to the trail head is in better condition thanks to my father in law's hard work. 

Please eat a hearty breakfast & have saddle snacks/water bottle full as we will have a late lunch Thursday. 

Simple Coffee is nearby Mavericks with a drive thru offering yummy burritos and a new bagel place just a little past Mavericks has yummy breakfast items if you feel like it!  

Once we arrive at the trailhead we will make sure you park your vehicles correctly, so our horse trailers have adequate clearance. 

We will then create a client pile of duffle bags to be packed onto horses. Please have any personal items separate from your duffle bag that you will want for the ride in. 

These items can be loaded into your saddle bags & horn bag for the trail ride into camp. These items include: rain layer, phone, trail beverage, snacks, water, sunscreen. 

You will each get a tag to write your name and label your saddle so for the remainder of the trip you can begin to recognize your tack.

After signing waivers & medical forms. We will have a group horse clinic and trail riding safety discussions. 

7amish Coffee

8amish Yoga/Stretching/Meditation/Chat or Free time

9amish Breakfast

10amish-12ish Clean up & Change for Trail Ride, Free time, Help Saddle

12ish Grab Trail Bagged Lunch & Snacks/Sort Saddle Bags & Ride out

4pmish-5pmish Return to Base Camp dependent on length of trail ride

5pmish-6pmish Free time

6pmish Apps 

7pmish Dinner

Evening Free time

Free Time: : creative jewelry station, play cards, music, dancing, sleeping, nap, hammock hang, chat, cold plunge, mini hike