The husband-and-wife team behind Copper Spur Ranch—a Colorado guest ranch and working cattle and sheep ranch nestled deep in the heart of the high country.

Garth is a lifelong cowboy at heart. Raised in the South and highly educated in agriculture (Ph.D. in Animal Science), he’s spent decades managing and/or advising ranches, riding high-country trails, and living a life rooted in hard work, open land, and good stories. He still believes in Southern hospitality, sunrise coffee, and a proper breakfast plate with bacon, eggs, and cheese grits.

Maria was born and raised in Mexico, where her love for animals and open land first blossomed on her grandparents’ farm. Her life is woven with creativity, curiosity, and deep compassion. A gifted pianist, passionate Flamenco dancer, and fluent in five languages, Maria’s talents run wide, but her heart runs deeper. She is also a devoted learner of the human experience, constantly exploring psychology and philosophy.  This lifelong learning shapes the warmth, empathy, and insight she brings to every interaction. Whether tending animals, welcoming guests, or sharing a glass of wine on the porch, Maria engages with presence, heart, and intention.

It was Maria who first discovered Copper Spur Ranch online. She started searching after catching ranch fever during a memorable winter afternoon spent at a friend's ranch. They were both captivated by the sight of a couple hundred deer grazing as they departed.  Garth was initially skeptical—“You don’t go shopping for champagne when all you can afford is PBR,” he joked.

When Garth and Maria first visited Copper Spur Ranch in the dead of winter, the land was buried in snow and rough around the edges. Initially, Garth dubbed it a “runch”—a run-down ranch. It wasn’t until the spring thaw that Garth finally saw the vision Maria had seen all along—the stunning landscape, abundant wildlife, natural water features, and untouched beauty of the surrounding public lands. It was all there, just waiting. Now, after years of grit, grace, and shared effort, Copper Spur Ranch has evolved into the dream it was always meant to be.

Together, Garth and Maria have poured their hearts into this land. They care for the animals, cultivate the property, and welcome guests with honesty, warmth, and a profound love for the rhythm of the Rockies. They believe in slowing down, connecting with nature, and sharing stories that stretch long into the evening.

Copper Spur Ranch is more than a destination, it’s a living reflection of their shared journey, deeply rooted in hard work, healing, hospitality, and respect for the land and all who find their way here.