Hunting Camp, Horses, and the Ritual of the First Snow
We’ve been talking a lot about ritual lately at Late Bloomer Ranch, and it has me excited for one of my personal favorite rituals to begin.
Every year, my partner, myself, and my collie dog live by the rhythm of what we can do on horseback, deep in the backcountry.
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In spring, it’s bucking snow, breaking colts, and waking up cold-backed old horses.
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In the heat of summer, it’s long pack trips to beautiful lakes and good fishing spots.
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In winter, it’s one very cold ride on bewildered horses until the ideal Christmas tree is spotted and packed out.
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And in fall — when the elk start to whistle, the horses hair up, and the nights grow cold — it’s time to set hunting camp.
It’s my very favorite season.
The Ritual of Hunting Camp
We pray for snow to fly, making it easier to track elk — and because nothing beats the sight of snowflakes drifting past the open tent flaps, horses gathered quietly under the pines.
If you haven’t guessed it already, I’m a terrible shot and mostly prefer reading a good book, knitting, and tending to dinner while the boys hunt. (For me, it’s about the ambiance.)
If you’ve never experienced it, I’ll tell you: there’s nothing like sitting in a hunting camp in the whole world.
The sound of a crackling wood stove, the hum of lanterns, the quiet music floating from someone's speaker — it’s freezing outside, but the inside of the wall tent is warm enough that you can sit around in just a shirt.
There’s always a hot meal, warm coffee, cold brews, and a never-ending card game happening at the table.
People come and go all night long, throwing in quarters to the pot until someone wins a small fortune — usually about $20.
Stories are told, told again, and told again. The details shift, but the laughter never stops.
Chasing Elk at Dawn
Mornings come with hands so cold you can barely saddle your horse.
You spend the time before dawn half looking for elk, half trying to shove your hands under your horse’s mane to warm them up enough to hold the reins.
I’m not a morning person, but dawn in the north country rouses even me.
There’s nothing like it.
If you’re lucky, you spot elk — and then the real thrill begins.
You race them down on horseback, hoping for a chance to take a shot through the brush.
It’s thrilling, it’s humbling, and it’s probably the most fun you can have outside of the rules of reason.
It’s not the easiest way to hunt, but it feels fitting for such a noble creature.
A New Season, A New Role
This is my first season participating, not just witnessing.
As someone who raises animals with care and integrity, there’s a deep nervousness about taking a life — and a deep gratitude, too.
It’s the greatest responsibility in the world. I hope I get the chance, and if I do, I’ll carry it with reverence.
Mostly, I’m excited for the chase — with my best mare and my best friends.
A Tip for Game Meat Lovers: Don’t Forget the Leaf Lard
If you’re lucky enough to fill your freezer this hunting season, don’t forget: Late Bloomer Ranch leaf lard is the perfect complement to lean, wild game meat.
Adding a little leaf lard to your ground game or roasts:
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Enhances flavor
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Adds clean, nourishing fats
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Elevates wild meat into something truly sublime
Our holistically raised, chemical-free lard brings richness, tenderness, and nutrient density to already high-vibration foods — exactly the way nature intended.
See You in the Mountains
If you can find us, come play a round of cards.
We'll save you a seat by the fire.
Until then — happy hunting, and happy cooking.