local
Saddle Sore: Where have all the cowgirls gone?
By Tony Vagneur Follow
ajv@sopris.net at Aspen Times
· June 27, 2026
· 5 min read
Where have all the cowgirls gone?
Someone said a while back there were no real cowgirls left in the area. My reply was that one needed to get off the asphalt, go down a dusty road and take a look around. You probably won’t find them in town showing off a brand-new hat and spotless boots that ...
Key takeaway Someone said a while back there were no real cowgirls left in the area.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The presence of cowgirls like Niki Burtard Day and her daughters is a testament to the enduring ranching heritage in Pitkin County. These women are not just symbols of a bygone era, but active participants in the local agricultural economy. The McCabe Ranch, where Niki works, is one of many commercial operations in the area that rely on the expertise and hard work of individuals like her. As the Roaring Fork Valley continues to evolve and grow, it's essential to recognize the importance of preserving ranching traditions and the open spaces that come with them. The next generation of ranchers, including Josie and Lauren, will play a crucial role in shaping the future of agriculture in the valley, and their stories serve as a reminder of the strong connections between land, family, and community that define rural life in Aspen .
About this story
Original reporting by Aspen Times . Aspen News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Aspen Times . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 27, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Where have all the cowgirls gone?
Someone said a while back there were no real cowgirls left in the area. My reply was that one needed to get off the asphalt, go down a dusty road and take a look around. You probably won’t find them in town showing off a brand-new hat and spotless boots that ...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 27, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Tony Vagneur Follow
ajv@sopris.net at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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