Colorado Dude RanchesDude ranches, or guest ranches, have long been a destination for those seeking to get away from it all. They first became popular with city people in the eastern United States in the late 19th century when the American West was first romanticised in dime store novels and Wild West Shows. Hollywood took over from there. Dude ranches remain the vacation choice of many Americans and those from other nations who want an experience that's more adventurous than lying on the beach or shopping.At a Colorado Dude Ranch one can participate in outdoor activities such as horseback riding, cattle drives, hiking, whitewater rafting, fishing, rock climbing, campfire cookouts, line dancing, snowmobiling, telemarking, snow-shoeing, and much more! A Colorado dude ranch can also be the perfect place to host events such as weddings and family reunions.
Colorado Dude Ranch Vacations are enjoyable in either the summer or winter and each ranch differs regarding available amenities and activities. Some stick with just the basics and appeal to those who want to "rough it." Others are more "spa-like," offering culinary classes, massage and aroma therapy, spiritual awareness, weight management and just about anything else you can imagine at the best high end resorts. Guest ranches often require a stay of at least 6 nights during peak months and 3 nights during the off season. A week long stay during peak season could range between $1,700-$3,800/person dependant upon which ranch you choose. There’s just under 30 Colorado guest ranches (2011) sprinkled along central and western Colorado. Finding one to accommodate your preferences, budget and group size as well as the time you wish to stay should not be a problem. Lost Valley Ranch is located in Sedalia, CO, just 2 hours from Denver. One, two, and three-bedroom cabin suites are offered at this 90 person capacity ranch. Tarryall River Ranch is a 2.5 hour drive from Denver International Airport. The dude ranch operates from late May through the end of September and their bed and breakfast is open year round. Overnight pack trips, shooting sports, and fishing are some of the things you can do here. Deer Valley Ranch, with a capacity of 105 guest, is 3 hours west of Denver. It is the largest of all the Colorado dude ranches. This is one of the few ranches to offer Colorado Gold Panning as an activity. They have a no alcohol policy, in line with their Christian ranch values. Sundance Trail Guest & Dude Ranch is at Red Feather Lakes, 100 miles northwest of Denver. It’s one of the smaller ranches in Colorado with a maximum capacity of only 24. It is also one of the few pet-friendly ranches. New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |
Dude Ranches are an excellent way to experience the Colorado outdoors with the direction of a trained guide.
