Who We Are
Who We Are
Cheekye Ranch is more than just a destination—it’s a place built on passion, hard work, and a love for nature. Our team is dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences, from serene getaways to exciting adventures.
Nestled in the stunning Squamish Valley, we bring people together through unique stays, mindful horsemanship, and one-of-a-kind events. We care deeply about the land, the animals, and the connections we help foster. Every member of our team plays a vital role in ensuring that every guest feels welcome, inspired, and part of something truly special.
What We Do
Cheekye Ranch is where nature, adventure, and connection come together. Stay in a cozy yurt, a beautiful campsite or the Atwell Cabin, experience mindful horsemanship, celebrate in our stunning wedding venue, or film against breathtaking backdrops. Explore and create lasting memories here.
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Escape to nature with a stay in our cozy glamping yurts or the newly renovated Atwell Cabin. Surrounded by forest and just steps from the Cheakamus River, Cheekye Ranch offers a peaceful retreat where comfort and wilderness come together.
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From intimate gatherings to large celebrations, Cheekye Ranch offers a breathtaking setting for any event. With stunning mountain views, lush gardens, and a private, open-air venue, it’s the perfect place to bring people together and create unforgettable moments.
Oisin McHugh Photography
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With stunning mountain views, dense forests, and open landscapes, Cheekye Ranch offers a dynamic and versatile filming location. Whether capturing dramatic scenes or serene backdrops, our unique setting provides the perfect canvas for films, commercials, and creative productions of all kinds.
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At Cheekye Ranch, horsemanship is about building trust and connection with these incredible animals. Our approach fosters confidence, respect, and awareness, allowing riders to bond with our rescued horses while experiencing the therapeutic power of the equine spirit in nature’s embrace.
our team
Cheekye Ranch thrives because of the dedicated individuals who pour their heart and hard work into every aspect of this place. From caring for our rescue horses to maintaining the land and creating unforgettable experiences, our team is the backbone of everything we do.
kris latham
Owner
Kris’s amazing childhood enabled her to be exposed to animals from an early age, living in Africa, South America, USA and from coast to coast in Canada. She was always surrounded by animals and even managed to bring some of them home. Her first horse was rescued in Newfoundland at the age of 12!
With a Diploma from Guelph University in Horticulture Design, Environmental Resource Studies at Trent University and a Master Organic Gardener Seal she combined her love of the outdoors and nature to start her own landscaping business, in 1998. She retired the Landscape business after 25yrs in 2023 to focus on the Ranch activities and the Equines in her care.
Her love of animals is endless and in 2016 Second Chance Cheekye Ranch was born. She manages all aspects of the non-profit organization along with dedicated board members and amazing volunteers.
FOR QUESTIONS REGARDING LAND USE, OUR HORSES AND ANIMALS, AND SECOND CHANCE CHEEKYE RANCH CONTACT KRIS
mandy pentland
Cheekye Ranch Events & Marketing Manager
Mandy Pentland is our events and marketing manager at Cheekye Ranch. She is responsible for everything from business development, events and sales. Mandy works on an individual to group basis to offer our clients a customized and special experience for their unique event at Cheekye Ranch.
From the wedding industry to the PR industry and everything in between, Mandy has managed and assisted in the launching of new businesses to the building of established businesses. From LA to Vancouver, Mandy has developed diverse skills to acquire new business growth and offer excellent client relationships. Her long-time passion for equine therapy and horsemanship lends itself perfectly to Cheekye Ranch’s mission of creating incredible experiences and building lasting connections and memories with the animals and the people involved.
FOR INFORMATION ON MARKETING, EVENTS AND WEDDINGS AT CHEEKYE RANCH CONTACT MANDY
Vanessa SAvage
Cheekye Ranch Customer Service & Social Media Manager
Vanessa Savage is our customer service and social media manager at Cheekye Ranch. She is dedicated to ensuring every guest's experience is exceptional. With expertise in customer service and social media management, she ensures smooth bookings, prompt communication, and memorable experiences for every guest. Collaborative and proactive, Vanessa is dedicated to enhancing the ranch's operations and guest engagement, making Cheekye Ranch a top destination for unforgettable experiences.
FOR INFORMATION ON BOOKINGS AT CHEEKYE RANCH CONTACT VANESSA
Nicola O'Brien
Venue Manager
Nicola O’Brien has been a part of the Cheekye Ranch team for nearly two years, bringing her passion for horses, the outdoors, and community together in her role as Venue Manager. Originally from England, Nicola’s journey with Cheekye began in 2023 when she first arrived in Canada, drawn to the ranch by her lifelong love for horses.
With a deep appreciation for nature and outdoor experiences, Nicola takes pride in contributing to a venue that inspires people to connect with the beauty of the wilderness. Whether preparing the venue, ensuring seamless operations, or welcoming guests, she is dedicated to making every experience at Cheekye Ranch truly unforgettable.
cheekye Ranch
A Brief History
Cheekye Ranch is rich in history and offers a unique escape for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful retreat. Nestled in a location that once marked the beginning of the renowned Pemberton Trail over a century ago, the ranch captures the spirit of early tourism in the Squamish area. In the early 1900s, eager sportsmen and vacationers traveled from Vancouver and beyond to experience the natural beauty of the region, often arriving via steamboat, horseback, or stagecoach. One such stagecoach, known as "Rapid," was operated by the legendary Harry Judd in 1910.
Visitors flocked to this idyllic location to hunt and fish in the bountiful waters of the Cheakamus and other nearby rivers, renowned for their abundant Steelhead, Salmon, and Trout. The Cheekye Lodge, which still stands today, serves as a reminder of this rich history. Unfortunately, the Cheakamus House, also known as James Road House, faced a tragic fate, having been destroyed in a massive flood in 1920.
In the years that followed, Cheekye evolved significantly, becoming a passenger station on the Pacific Great Eastern Railway. During this period, it served as a fishing lodge, provided cabins for visitors, and featured a small store and a post office, operating from October 16, 1924, until August 8, 1931.
Today, Cheekye Ranch honors this legacy while providing modern amenities, including riverside yurts, a newly renovated Atwell Cabin, beautiful campsites, and a stunning 3-acre venue space perfect for weddings and events. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Cheekye Ranch has something special for everyone to enjoy, set against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty and rich historical significance.
Cheekye Ranch is also home to Second Chance Cheekye Ranch (SCCR), a charitable organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and re-homes horses in troubling situations, many of which are bound for slaughter in Canada. For inquiries of, volunteering, donating, adopting or touring the ranch and meeting the horses you can visit, www.secondchancecheekyeranch.com to learn more.
Did You know?
The Residents
Cheekye Ranch is a sanctuary for animals in need, including horses, donkeys, mules, pot-bellied pigs, and more. This incredible place has transformed the lives of both the animals who call it home and the dedicated individuals who care for them. From rescues to permanent residents, each animal plays a unique role in the ranch’s community, offering healing, connection, and a fresh start.
Reserve Your Adventure
Ready to experience the beauty and serenity of Cheekye Ranch? Booking your stay is easy—whether you're planning a relaxing getaway, a wedding, or an unforgettable adventure, we’re here to make it happen. Reserve your spot today and start planning your perfect escape into nature!