Woman Owned Small Business:

What it Means to Us

At Ute Mountaineer and Neptune Mountaineering, we've always believed that the outdoors is for everyone. It’s one of our core values — Welcome All — and it guides everything we do, from the conversations we have on the sales floor to the community events we host in Aspen and Boulder.

This year, that value takes on even more meaning as we celebrate becoming officially certified as a woman-owned small business under the leadership of Maile Spung.

Leadership on (and off) the mountain

Maile grew up in Aspen, learning to ski, climb, and explore from her dad, Ute Mountaineer founder Bob Wade. Those early lessons in the mountains shaped a deep appreciation for the outside world and a passion for sharing it with others. 

Her path wasn’t about following footsteps, but carving her own trail. From guiding on Mount Rainier to ski patrolling in Aspen, Maile’s experience in the outdoors taught her how to lead with both strength and compassion — values she carries on as the female owner and leader of two independent stores; Ute Mountaineer and Neptune Mountaineering. 

 

Welcome All 

For Maile, being a female owner in a historically male-dominated industry isn’t just about representation — it’s about rewriting the narrative.

“I want our stores to be places where everyone feels welcomed and supported — whether you’re walking in for your first pair of hiking boots or gearing up for a big expedition,” says Maile. “Being a woman-owned business gives us the opportunity to lead differently — with a deep belief that the outdoors are for everyone.”

Our woman-owned business certification reflects more than ownership. It represents our values in action. It’s about building a culture where every customer and every team member feels like they belong, no matter their background, experience level, or identity.

We’re here to inspire confidence and community. To make sure that when you step into our stores, you feel the same warmth and welcome that the mountains give us all.

Beyond Our Stores

The rise in women owned businesses in Colorado and beyond in recent years is significant. We are proud to be a part of this growing community.

The trail ahead

As woman-owned outdoor businesses, our mission remains the same: we serve our guests by understanding their needs and utilizing our expertise to provide the highest quality equipment to heighten their experience in the outdoors. As we look ahead, we’re proud to carry this certification not just as a milestone, but as motivation — to keep learning, growing, and welcoming everyone to find their place in the outdoors.