Colorado Dude Ranch Activities

Horseback Riding and Lessons

Our goal for you through our horse care and riding program is to build confidence and learn a new skill while exploring the beautiful mountains, meadows, and aspen groves. Our lesson program stresses the ‘least resistance’ technique which focuses on working with the horse not against the horse. At the beginning of your stay we will ask for you to set a goal for yourself which we will help you accomplish during your stay. Each day will start with basic horse care, riding, and safety in our arena. You will have the chance to learn how to be safe on and around horses, basic communication with horses through body language, how to properly brush and tack a horse, how correct posture and hands affect control of a horse, and so much more. Then you will have the chance to practice what you have learned riding in the meadows and valleys and up on top of the ridges and mountaintops.

Hiking and Mountain Biking in the Rocky Mountains

There are endless opportunities to get out and explore our 3,600 acres on bike or on foot. There are miles of trails in the Pike National Forest, along the Colorado Trail and down the Tarryall Valley, taking you through the aspen groves and willows, up to historic Baker Lake and all throughout the meadows and creeks where the views are absolutely breathtaking. Wildlife abounds-elk, mule deer, coyote, badger, hawks, eagles and many bird species. Maybe you will spot the elusive mountain lion. So let us pack you a lunch for a day of adventure and exploring. Included in your ranch stay is the use of mountain bikes.

Gold Medal Fly Fishing in Colorado

Some of the best river and lake fishing in Colorado is found here, with the South Platte providing depth and breadth to Antero, Spinney and Elevenmile Reservoirs. Tarryall Creek fills Tarryall Reservoir as well. This is public fishing on private land which is limited to 2-3 anglers per day and the Gold Ribbon Waters are only 20 minutes away. Opportunities to fish on the property include Jefferson Creek, Baker Lake, and Horseshoe Lake which are all full of trout who are just waiting to put up a fight. Professional guides and instruction as well as all equipment are available close by. Spin fishing equipment is included in the ranch package.

Boating and Swimming on Private Waters

Come take your sweetheart for a romantic paddle around one of our two ranch lakes. Horseshoe Lake is 19 acres and situated between the main lodge and cabins with a breath taking view of the mountains in the back, a great place to paddle boat, canoe, row boat, or cool off with a swim after a ride or hike. Baker Lake is a historic site up and around the aspen groves amid the rocky cliffs on the north side of the property. This is a nice quiet spot to take the family for a picnic and an afternoon boat or swim surrounded by wildflowers and mountains. Use of boats and equipment is included.