About 100 years back, a few teenagers raced their horses down Macey Lane in the valley below Westcliffe. As fun as the race had been, they upped the ante by inviting townsfolk to watch and donate cash to the winning rider of what would eventually become the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo.

You can celebrate Custer County’s exciting ranching history on the third weekend of each July at the granddaddy of our summer events. Sponsored by The Wet Mountain Valley Saddle Club, this PRCA-sanctioned event begins on Friday with the traditional Ranch Rodeo, including races recalling the event’s Macey Lane heritage. Saturday morning’s parade down Westcliffe’s Main Street features rodeo personalities—including the rodeo queen and her court—along with their equine partners, sponsors and more.

Roping, bronc and bull riding, and barrel-racing events fill Saturday’s and Sunday’s schedules, while kids get in on the action with mutton-busting competitions and stick-horse races. Rodeo clowns add to the entertainment—while risking their own safety to protect riders.

Experience Colorado’s western lifestyle for yourself at the Westcliffe Stampede Rodeo where cowboys and cowgirls from across the county compete for cash prizes and everyone has a great time. Learn more about the weekend schedule by visiting our events calendar.

Wet Mountain Valley Saddle Club Rodeo Grounds