Hi, I’m Mich Michael
Owner and Operator, affectionately known as “Mich,” is the devoted caretaker and guide of the Olympic Valley Stables. Born on the North Shore of Lake Tahoe, Mich moved to the property as a toddler, where his grandparents ran a beloved horseback guided tour operation. Immersed in the beauty of the land and the care of its many animals, Mich’s upbringing was a tapestry woven with nature, family, and the evolving story of Olympic Valley.
From a young age, Mich embraced a regenerative mindset, instilled by the land and his family’s values. This deep connection would later guide him to build a collective in the valley. During his college years at Chico State and his subsequent career in action and adventure film, The Stables shifted from an active touring operation to a sanctuary on the path to recovery.
Upon his return to Olympic Valley, Mich, led by his unwavering values and commitment to peace and growth, began transforming The Stables into a vibrant event space and a home base for his blossoming passion as a plant-based chef. Over the past decade, with the support of a loving community and the inspiring stories of lives transformed, Mich has poured his heart and soul into regenerating the land, upgrading the property, and creating a space that hosts nearly 30 public community events and over a dozen private gatherings each year.
With over ten years of experience hosting memorable events, Mich and the Olympic Valley Stables have become synonymous with creating unforgettable moments. Countless happy clients attest to the property’s ability to provide exceptional and heartfelt celebrations, making every occasion truly special. Mich’s lifelong passion is to nurture this land and gather people, elevating each other, inspiring growth and harmony, and sharing these lessons with their own communities.
A Glimpse Into The Past
Nestled in the heart of the Squaw Valley meadow in Lake Tahoe, the Olympic Valley Stables stand as a testament to a rich and storied past. This premier location holds the legacy of the great pioneer Bud Jones and the spirit of the horses that have roamed the meadow for centuries. Once a fully operational riding stables, it boasted over 50 horses and ponies, offering a nostalgic experience for all who came to revel in the valley’s breathtaking beauty.
Towering over the meadow are the majestic mountains of Squaw Valley Ski Resort, renowned as the home of the 1960 Winter Olympics. This event marked a historic moment, transforming the meadow into a bustling hub, with cars parked on wood chips to preserve the land. After Bud Jones, the Poulsen family acquired the land and built the barn, which housed horses and other livestock for the community, and now serves as our enchanting silent disco arena.
The land has witnessed countless stories and transformations, from its days as a bustling stables to a cherished event space that echoes with laughter and celebration. The meadow, once threatened by development proposals, was lovingly restored to its natural splendor due to the passionate outcry of the community. The barn, visible in historic photos from the 1960 Winter Olympics, still stands proudly on the site today, a symbol of enduring heritage.
Today, we honor this blessed land, full of life and history, by hosting many events and weddings. With over a decade of experience, we have created countless unforgettable moments, celebrating the beauty and magic of Olympic Valley. The land’s vibrant history and serene landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your most cherished occasions, ensuring every event is steeped in the romance and legacy of this extraordinary place.