05/14/2026
Celebrating 10 years of Bryce Canyon Mule Days is a big deal. And for just a moment, we want to recognize the two people who made it all possible.
There’s a line at the end of Lonesome Dove where a journalist tells Captain Call, “They say you’re a man of vision.” Call replies, “A man of vision, you say? Yeah, a hell of a vision.”
Looking back over the past ten years, it’s hard to believe that everything we see today started with a single vision from Mclain and Merrilee Mecham. What began as an idea has grown into a week-long event that brings people together to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Through their hard work and dedication, Mule Days has become a place where friends, family, and mule lovers from all over the world gather here in little ol’ Tropic. Over the last decade, Bryce Canyon Mule Days has raised thousands and thousands to help local families with medical expenses and to support students in furthering their education.
They didn’t just build an event—they bring out the very best in people every year. They attract the best people to help carry out their dreams. Mclain and Merrilee are the heart and soul of Mule Days, and none of this would exist without them.
We sure enjoyed being able to thank and honor Merrilee and Mclain this year. Thank you for the countless hours you’ve given year-round. Thank you for sticking with it through those early years when it wasn’t easy. Thank you for caring so deeply about others and for your passion in helping people succeed. And thank you for always seeing the bigger picture.
Bryce Canyon Mule Days truly is “a hell of a vision.”
Thank you, Merr and McLain, for all the good you do. We love you!
