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Snowmass history: Mutton Bustin
By Aspen Historical Society Follow
info@aspenhistory.org at Aspen Times
· June 30, 2026
· 2 min read
“Welcome to the Snowmass Rodeo,” started a column in the Aspen Daily News June 30, 2005.
“… The game is called Mutton Bustin’ where kids ages 4-7 years old, 50 pounds or less, wrap their arms around the necks of these little farm animals and hold on tight. It’s a little rodeo for kiddies. The...
Key takeaway “… The game is called Mutton Bustin’ where kids ages 4-7 years old, 50 pounds or less, wrap their arms around the necks of these little farm animals and hold on tight.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The Snowmass Rodeo's Mutton Bustin' and calf scramble events have been a staple of family-friendly entertainment in the Roaring Fork Valley for 55 years. These events not only showcase the skills and bravery of young children but also highlight the strong ranching heritage of the area. The fact that these events have been able to continue for so long is a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its Western roots. As the rodeo continues to draw in visitors from around the region, it also provides a unique opportunity for local children to participate in and learn about the traditions of ranching and rodeo riding. The rodeo's longevity is also a boon for the local economy, bringing in tourists and supporting local businesses during the summer months when the ski resorts are less busy. The Snowmass Rodeo's enduring popularity is a reflection of the community's strong sense of identity and tradition.
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 .
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Category: local ·
Published: June 30, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? “Welcome to the Snowmass Rodeo,” started a column in the Aspen Daily News June 30, 2005.
“… The game is called Mutton Bustin’ where kids ages 4-7 years old, 50 pounds or less, wrap their arms around the necks of these little farm animals and hold on tight. It’s a little rodeo for kiddies. The...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 30, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Aspen Historical Society Follow
info@aspenhistory.org 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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