Meet our Guides

Each of CTR's Guides showcase their unique knowledges and experiences. If you want a particular guide for your venture, please let us know!

Amber Van Winkle

Shurray Barnes

Did you know... we are veteran owned and operated! Our owner, Amber, served in the Army and deployed overseas during her time in service. After her military experience, she went to school to become a Certified Farrier, building on her personal horse experience and expanding her knowledge of equine biomechanics and how hoof care influences horse behavior. Amber uses her expertise to improve her Mustang training program, and she's a proud Forever Branded partner. She also offers her training services and riding lessons to the public. She is currently an instructor on Fort Huachuca and uses her skills to instruct new riders on the trail.

Meet Shurray! She started her riding journey in the English world, She then expanded her skills by moving into the show arena. She’s been focusing on showing Quarter Horses in both English and Western disciplines, including competing at the NSBA World Show in 2022. She has guided rides along the Santa Rita mountains, she extensively and continuously trains in her horsemanship, field guiding, and customer service. She has overcome adversity in the equestrian world including past injuries and PTSD. If you’re feeling nervous or scared about your first ride, she’s offers the absolute perfect support. She’ll guide you through so you can gain the most out of your experience.

Mia Reavis

Meet Mia, who has spent several years guiding riders deep into the backcountry and learning much of the history in our areas. Her expertise in training bridle horses and her focus on horsemanship and equine handling skills truly shine through. She loves sharing the beauty of the mountains and uncovering some of the hidden gems within our stunning landscape. Mia is a teacher full-time and has a way of helping riders improve their abilities and confidence. In unsure times, she keeps a cool head with her horses and riders. With a skills-focused guide like her, you're sure to finish your ride with a wealth of new knowledge and great memories.

Shane Van Winkle

Meet Shane, Amber's husband. He graduated from farrier school in 2008 and expanded his skills in 2016 by completing specialized equine dentistry training. Shane has a number of roping accomplishments, including making the USTRC team roping finals in Oklahoma, competed at the World Series team roping finals, and roping in the GCPRA. He even worked on the Marley Cattle Co. in Aravaca, AZ, where he branded calves, gave immunizations, and handled various herd management tasks. He spent time guiding rides and driving horses in Wyoming as a young adult, he has extensive knowledge of the arizona wildlife and is a hunter's dream to work with. With his years in the saddle, you're in for a true cattleman experience