If you are looking to be a professional mule trainer Our Apprenticeship Schooling Course has open enrollment, based on mutual agreement. you can learn to ride, drive, and pack all mules.  During the first few days of training each apprentice and mule receives foundational ground training,basic healthcare, grooming..

On training days we may ride in the surrounding mountain range, train in the round pens or arena, or use the trail course. 

Wagon master:  You will learn how to teach a mule to pull a wagon and you may learn to drive from one to six mules.  You will learn how to harness and will gain a working knowledge of how the harness works. You will be able to use and understand the terminology used by teamsters. You will drive on public roads and on the ranch.

Master Packer:  Our packing program will teach you how to pack a sawbuck saddle using boxes and bags. You will learn the double diamond hitch and box hitch.  You will learn to lead from one up to a six pack mules.  

Mule trainer:  You will learn the basics of shoeing and trimming, grooming, colt starting, and reining, as well as riding techniques for trails and mountain riding.  You will also be working with mules who are spoiled and need a "tune up". Some fence, wagon and tack repair will usually be included.  Our trainee program will help you have a daily knowledge of the mule world. There are times We also do cow work during the spring and fall. 

See Outline of Steve Edwards Mule Training Levels

We will have mules on the ranch for training.  If you want to be a professional mule trainer Steve requires you bring one mule to ride and one mule colt to start.  The program is flexible with a recommended four weeks course of instruction, working five to six days a week 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.  At times we may work dawn to dusk with an average per month 140 to 160 hours. You will help with the daily chores, including cleaning stalls and care and feeding of the mules and other animals. 

We have trailers including bedding and utensils, with all utilities, you supply your own food.

20' trailer

Cost:  Only $500 per month.

40' trailer

Cost:  Only $800.00 per month

Bunk House

Cost:  Only $1200.00 per month

For those who have their own living quarters we do have RV space available.

The RV space and corrals(feed not included) is included with the monthly training.

A first visit will be necessary with a trial period of one week.  You must be highly motivated to learn this type of work, be honest, flexible, clean, no tobacco use, no drinking, and no foul language.  Character references are required. This program has a cost range from $2500 per month which does not include room and board.

Apprenticing at Queen Valley Mule Ranch

2009

Jake Betts,Kansas