Get to know Our Families
Mark & Deb. Trin, Logan, & Luke
High Adventure Ranch
9,000 Feet Above the Ordinary
Welcome to our family-run yak ranch nestled at 9,000 feet in the Rocky Mountains of Northern Colorado and rooted in quietness, connection, and the timeless beauty of the mountains.
We chose the name “High Adventure” because it reflects the spirit of our journey:
High for the crisp, alpine elevation.
Adventure for the life we stepped into with open hearts and no prior ranching experience.
Ranch because we felt drawn to raise animals, which we hoped would become part of the heart and soul of High Adventure Ranch.
In 2024, we discovered the heart of the mountain: Tibetan yak—perfectly adapted to life where the air thins and the world grows quiet. The very essence of the mountain. They are powerful, resilient, and versatile animals. But what captured our hearts was something far more special—their remarkable ability to form deep, trusting bonds with their human family.
Our path has been profoundly shaped by yak pioneer Mr. Bob Stuplich. His legacy and dedication has inspired everything we do. Today, we honor his memory through a close collaboration with his trusted ranch managers, Cain and Nicole, who share our vision of raising legacy-quality yak with exceptional temperament.
At High Adventure Ranch, elevation meets purpose. We aren’t simply raising livestock—we are cultivating connection and trust. Born in the mountains, nurtured with respect, gentleness, and love, our animals become loyal companions for life.
Thank you for visiting our website.
We invite you to share in our adventure as we journey deeper into the world of yak.
Nicole & Cain
American White Yak Ranch
What began as an unexpected detour for Cain and Nicole soon became a fulfilling new calling and passion for this powerhouse couple. In 2020, when the Covid shutdowns paused their professional responsibilities, they had the opportunity to meet Mr. Robert Stuplich, an early pioneer in American yak ranching. Mr. Bob, as they lovingly called him, invited the couple to live on the ranch and work side-by-side with him, learning about and caring for his magnificent yak herd at the American White Yak Ranch.
Leaving behind the fast-paced world of commercial contracting and corporate work, Cain and Nicole stepped into a completely new life—one defined by the rhythms, relationships, and remarkable nature of yak ranching. They developed a special bond with Mr. Bob. They were not just employees; they were family. His mentorship, wisdom, and wholehearted passion for yak shaped them profoundly, instilling a deep love and respect for these powerful yet gentle animals.
After Mr. Bob’s passing in August of 2025, a providential meeting connected Cain and Nicole with a family who had purchased some of Mr. Bob’s beloved yak. Still new to the world of yak ranching, the family was seeking mentors of their own. From that meeting, a powerful collaboration between the American White Yak Ranch and High Adventure Ranch was born.
Together, we seek to honor and continue the legacy of Mr. Bob through stewardship, education, and the ongoing advancement of these animals he loved so deeply.
Continuing the legacy
Robert Stuplich “Mr. Bob”
Robert Stuplich is recognized as one of the early leaders and “grandfathers” of American yak ranching—one of the original Yakbosi* in the United States. He lived a life of depth, both literally and figuratively. A skilled photographer and inspiring storyteller, he saw the world with an artist’s eye and a mountaineer’s courage. His life was one of exploration, taking him everywhere --from towering summits to the hidden wonders of the deep sea.
But in 2009, a journey to Tibet changed everything. There, among the mountains, Robert learned yak husbandry from the masters and discovered a calling that would shape the final 25 years of his life.
Devoting himself to raising yak on his ranch in Western Colorado, Robert became passionate about educating others on the extraordinary nature and benefits of these animals. He had a particular affinity for white yak and immersed himself in the study of yak genetics. Robert especially cherished the bond that could be cultivated with these remarkable, gentle animals. His yak were well-loved and eagerly welcomed his daily hugs and pets--often returning the affection with their own special “yak hug.” His passion was unmistakable; you could see it in the light of his eyes and hear it in the warmth of his voice every time he spoke about his animals.
Though he is deeply missed, his impact endures. At High Adventure Ranch, and in collaboration with American White Yak Ranch, we are committed to carrying his teachings forward. We honor his legacy by continuing his work, sharing his knowledge, and spreading the love of these extraordinary animals he championed for so many years.
*Yakbo / Yakbosi (n.): A pioneer and foundational leader in American yak ranching; an early expert whose experience, teaching, and influence helped shape the industry. A title of respect given to someone who embodies mastery, mentorship, and deep devotion to the yak.
Photo used with permission from American White Yak Ranch
Connect with us
Whether you're exploring exceptional breeding stock, curious about our imprinting practices and ranch legacy, or simply wanting to connect with fellow yak-hearted people—we’d love to hear from you.
Email us at highadventureyak@gmail.com
Follow us on YouTube www.youtube.com/@HighAdventureLife
