Top Hotels in Colorado Ranches
Top Things to do in Colorado
10 Ranches in Colorado: Best hotel deals for 2023
Colorado is home to no less than twenty-six ski resorts such as those in Vail and Breckenridge; other winter activities include snowboarding, sledding, sleigh rides, snow hiking and snowmobiling. The state is blessed with national parks, grasslands and forests where in warmer weather you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking or rock climbing. Wildlife abounds, from bears to moose and raccoons to wolverines. More interested in local history? Head for either the Ute Indian Museum or the Koshare Indian Museum, and don't miss the forts such as Fort Garland and Bent's Old Fort. For a complete change, why not take a ride in a hot air balloon from South Park Valley or Boulder and admire Colorado's picturesque landscape from above?
Things to do in Colorado
1. Grand Lake Lodge
Overall Ratings
4 based on 172 reviews
Welcome to Grand Lake Lodge, your ultimate Colorado summer getaway. Whether you're relaxing in one of our newly renovated 70 guest cabins or enjoying a meal on our mountainside deck at Huntington House Tavern, you will find yourself surrounded by lake and mountain views that exude the rejuvenating beauty found only in the hear of Colorado. Join us between May and October for rustic relaxation that knows no bounds. Nestled in Rocky Mountain National Park, our lodge guarantees a serene location for your family vacation, business gathering or destination wedding. We've earned our spot on the National Register for Historic Places as an ideal place to stay as you make your way through Colorado!
Not Worth the Price
Reviewed By 5juhr1opvjAccommodations very tiny. Views are spectacular but there is no porch or low window to enjoy it from. Food is limited, expensive and quality is medium. Not easily accessible if you have difficulty walking.
2. Dao House
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 158 reviews
Rustic mountain lodge surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park offering both lodge rooms and guest cabins. Full service wellness conference and retreat center with year round activities including hiking, and biking. Banquet Center for conferences and large groups. Meeting spaces with conference services and on-site catering. Beautiful Mountain vistas combined with on-site lodging make this an ideal Wellness and Corporate Conference venue.
Think twice about having your wedding here
Reviewed By SpiderGirlMorganI had my wedding here back in September. The venue itself is GORGEOUS and was the only saving grace to it being terrible. Long story short don't have your wedding here. If you do - DON'T stay onsite and DON'T eat their food. Reasons to stay away are as follows: #1 they are highly unorganized. I planned my wedding from a different state and response times were terrible and answers changed constantly. There were many last-minute things told to us that we were not prepared for. #2 when we arrived to check in (at 3pm) the night before our wedding, our room wasnt ready and we had to wait for someone to go "clean" it. Even then they didn't change the bedding and it was just a horrible start to our wedding weekend. #3 the food. We traveled to CO earlier in the summer to do our reception tasting and had delicious mouth watering salmon and ribs. At our reception, our food was 30 minutes late, the salmon and carrots were undercooked, and whatever meat that was supposed to be ribs in a wine sauce was just fatty chewy pieces of disgust. I was so embarrassed for my guests to have traveled from across the country to eat the most horrible meal of my life. We work in the customer/food service industry and was highly disappointed in the service. #4 all of our guests who booked at the Dao House during the discounted wedding rate were not charged that upon checkout nor was an invoice sent to any guest. I had to demand that they reverse the charges for all our guests because that is just unprofessional. #5 while checking out, we were informed of a $200 fee for our vendors dinners. This was stated no where in the contract and was just another attempt to get more money out of us. We disputed the charges because our 4 vendors were included in our guest count and had already been paid for. Needless to say I was not happy with how the Dao House prepared for and handled my wedding so I hope anyone considering this venue proceeds with EXTREME caution. I did reach out to the venue afterwards to air my grievances and provide feedback for future weddings, and they mainly pointed fingers and accepted very little fault. I have a "free nights stay" as a "comp" if you call it that, but why would I want to return to a place that was already so disappointing for a huge event such as my wedding?!
3. Black Mountain Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 317 reviews
Come join us for a taste of the wild west. Your week long package includes lodging, all meals, unlimited horseback riding, an overnight pack trip, a longhorn cattle drive, whitewater rafting, fly and spin fishing, rifle and trap shooting, archery, a trip to a local rodeo and so much more!
An Extraordinary Week to Remember at Black Mountain Ranch!
Reviewed By T9934VTdougsMy wife Denise has always dreamed of visiting a 'Dude Ranch' and BMR certainly delivered a memorable experience! The May family are wonderful hosts and run a top-notch operation. The staff make you feel welcome and cater to your every need. We thoroughly enjoyed the people, facilities, and overall feeling of being a part of a working ranch. Key Notes: — Accommodations: Elk Park cabin was really spacious, comfortable, and clean. They do an awesome job of taking care of your cabin each day. — Food - The meals were remarkable…Shrimp & Grits, Duck & Gnocchi, Prime Rib, just to name a few magical creations provided by Chef Bob! — Horses - The horses are well taken care of and beautiful. They have a horse for everyone and if you find you and yours don’t hit it off, they’ll find another match that’s perfect for you. — Wranglers - All the wranglers are warm, friendly, and helpful. Our wrangler Jessica was amazing and made sure we were well taken care of and enjoyed our time at the ranch. — Saloon - At the end of the day, a saloon is a great place to relax and unwind with your favorite beverage, great music, and dancing. — Ranch - High in the Rockies, this ranch has great trails and scenic views. This is a working ranch, so there is always something going on throughout the day. — Hiking - Speaking of trails, the hiking is phenomenal and there are plenty of trails to take in while at the ranch. — Activities - While at BMR we experienced horse riding, calf roping, wrangling cattle, watercolor painting, leatherworking, and so much more. Trust me, you will be so glad you chose Black Mountain ranch, I know we are. We'll be counting the days until we visit again!
4. Tumbling River Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 177 reviews
Welcome to Tumbling River Ranch, one of the finest guest and dude ranches in the Colorado Rockies. With a superb location nestled in a secluded valley high in the Rocky Mountains, Tumbling River Ranch is a truly special place for kids, parents and grandparents to enjoy a one-of-a-kind family vacation at a Colorado ranch resort.Come enjoy superb horseback riding for all ages, exceptional dining, fun activities and outstanding kids' programs - for babies through teenagers.For an unforgettable vacation, family reunion, or wedding, Tumbling River Ranch offers the highest level of facilities, service, hospitality and comfort in a fun, Western horseback riding ranch experience. Other activities include fly-fishing, swimming, hiking, trapshooting, family rodeos, white-water rafting, unforgettable live entertainment, and more!You have our commitment that we will do everything possible to make your vacation or event the best you've ever had.
Ranch Camp Fun for All!
Reviewed By GrandTour751519We had a fabulous week at Tumbling River for an extended family vacation. Everyone from kids, teens, parents and grandparents jumped into all of amazing daily activities--riding, hiking, fishing, white water rafting. Our group of 13 ranged in age from 8 to 70+ and there was always an appealing activity for everyone. Scott and Megan have the ranch running smoothly with everyone picking their activities the evening before. Kids and teens had a great time with other children their age. Staff was wonderfully attentive and engaging and the food was terrific. There were tears at the end of the week when the younger kids said goodbye to their horses and the teens exclaimed that it was the best vacation ever.
5. Rainbow Trout Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 276 reviews
Spectacular guest ranch set at 9000' in the southern Colorado Rockies. Superb riding and fishing, fun kids' and teen programs, evening activities, trapshooting and more. The adventure of a lifetime. Share our special brand of western hospitality and see why folks keep coming back for more! Member of all accredited associations, Horse Safety certified. Top Ten Dude Ranch. Signature Ranch. All-inclusive, and exclusive. Wonderful experience in every way. Come share it with us!
1st Rainbow Trout Ranch visit (but not the last)
Reviewed By Doc CWe had 5 cruises canceled during the Covid Pandemic.... We decided to do something different, and this is what we choose. The vacation could not have been better, Staff and the Van Berkun's made us feel like royalty and treated us like one of the family. Food was delicious and activities always keep us entertained. Before we left, my wife said the we need to come back in 2022... And we are! doc
6. McGregor Mountain Lodge
Overall Ratings
5 based on 391 reviews
Enjoy the serenity of the Rocky Mountains with breathtaking views from each of our stand alone cabins, or fully equipped suites. All our units come with kitchens, and the newly renovated and well maintained cabins and suites also have wood burning fireplaces, private patios with BBQ for that summer's eve cookout, jetted bath tubs with access by reservation to our private hot tub. Adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park (1/2 Mile to US 34-Fall River Entrance) and just a 5 minute drive to the quaint village of Estes Park, McGregor boasts some of the most spectacular views in the area. Enjoy frequent visits from our resident wildlife that include large bull elk, mule deer, foxes, coyotes, and the Rocky Mountain big horn sheep. A myriad of birds frequent our bird feeders strategically placed (and filled daily) at each cabin so you never have to leave the comfort of your "home" to observe these winged and furry critters. Enjoy a warm cup of tea/coffee or spiced cider (seasonal) in our inviting lobby while visiting with our friendly staff about your day hikes and adventures in the surrounding area. Fresh baked chocolate cookies will welcome you every afternoon, a wide selection of reading materials, books and magazines, games and puzzles are free for your perusing while here at McGregor. Open Year-Round, with seasonal rates, and discounts for extended stays. Weekly rates available. Dogs are allowed in select cabins for a charge. Late check outs available upon request for additional fee. WI-FI High speed internet FREE and available throughout the property. We look forward to introducing you to a little bit of heaven, right here on Earth! Call now!!
Pleasant retreat
Reviewed By angelas5890We truly enjoyed our time at McGregor Mountain Lodge. Our cabin provided everything we needed and the comfortable surroundings in which to relax. We plan to come back and stay again for longer. As nature lovers the bird watching was amazing.
7. Wind River Christian Family Dude Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 236 reviews
Wind River Ranch is an all inclusive resort property that appeals to each family member. We invite you to read our reviews on TripAdvisor and hear why our guests not only love the investment they made in their family, but also why they choose to return again and again to WRR. This is a unique and very special family dude ranch experience and a mountaintop experience.
Amazing, Restful Sanctuary
Reviewed By ethillhomeThe Ranch is a place that allows you to rest your mind and soul. The Staff is amazing and has exemplified every bit of Galatians 5:13. We met lifelong friends and enjoyed horseback riding, kayaking, swimming, biking, porch reading, and amazing food. Thank you all! We can’t wait to come back!
8. Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 246 reviews
Named "Best Family Vacation" by Frommer's Colorado guidebook and rated among the "Top Ten Colorado Dude Ranches" by True West Magazine, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch offers year ‘round outdoor adventure. Conveniently located just one hour from Denver in the Colorado foothills near Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park, Sylvan Dale’s 3200-acre working Dude Ranch and Retreat Center is nestled along the banks of Colorado's beautiful Big Thompson River. Offering activities such as cattle drives, trail rides, horseback riding, trophy trout fly fishing, hiking and nearby hunting, nature experiences, tennis, swimming, and many other activities,true adventure awaits you! Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is perfect for your next vacation adventure! Much more than just an historic working ranch, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch also provides exceptional services for business retreats and private meetings, holiday parties, picnics, reunions, family vacations, bed & breakfast, weddings, and a variety of exciting outdoor adventures. Sylvan Dale's delicious and healthy Heart-J natural grass-fed beef is also available for purchase. Come experience all that is the beauty of Sylvan Dale!
A place filled of love
Reviewed By sunflower915Me and my friend held our first retreat on this ranch and it was way beyond all expectations. WOW. Words cannot describe how well run this place is. The owner Susan is such a loving and sweet person and it shows all the way through each staff member. Karen who was our contact person did an amazing job and was extremely accommodating. We can't wait to go back in October and host another retreat and reconnect with this place and its wonderful staff. All horses are taken cared of in a beautiful way and the facility is stunning. The food is amazing, I mean there is not a bad word to say about this place. If you want a family vacation or just go trail riding this is the perfect place. THANK YOU!
9. Cherokee Park Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 214 reviews
Cherokee Park Ranch is a family owned dude ranch nestled in the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains in Livermore, Colorado. It is the perfect place for everything from your honeymoon, and guys or gals getaway, to family vacations, reunions or grandparent's retreat. Lope through wildflower-speckled meadows, cross the refreshing Cache La Poudre River, climb the Rocky Mountains, and from atop your horse, peer out over some of the most breathtaking land ever created. Cherokee Park Ranch will forever hold a special place in your heart. In fact, 86% of our guests are returns!
Laid back Vacation
Reviewed By decase5Have stayed at several other Colorado dude ranches and this one is on par. However, this is the friendliest ranch we have stayed at. Loved that the gratuity was included and the friendliness seemed genuine - not just hoping for a bigger tip! We especially enjoyed Ana (wrangler), Kaylee (kitchen staff) and Granger (all around helper). The food was excellent and plentiful - and the staff did accommodations for preferences easily and without making a fuss. The Campton Suite was rustic, cool & comfortable - we did use the fan! However, long after dinner folks would sit on the patio & chat. Our windows were directly above the patio & the sound carried perfectly into our room - we may as well have been sitting at the table with them. We did get the staff to ask folks to go somewhere else when they closed down the kitchen. We rode horses, fished, hiked, swam in the pool, sat in the hot tub, chatted and rocked on the porches. It was so relaxing and easy. We loved it. One note - it would have been nice to have had the fishing guide still available...
10. Zapata Ranch - A Nature Conservancy Preserve
Overall Ratings
5 based on 156 reviews
Spectacular setting. One of the most unique ranches in North America bordered by the Sand Dunes National Park and Sangre de Cristo Mountain range. 103,000 acres with bison and cattle. Excellent working ranch opportunities and educational, conservation and nature experiences. Be sure to ask about Branding Week, Sandhill Crane Photo Trip, Painting and Photography Workshops, Horsemanship & Roping Clinics and Corporate/Family Retreat Capacities. Gourmet Chef, 4-star rustic elegance, hot tub and walking trails on grounds.
Great place food needs work
Reviewed By wbonoraFirst the bad news. Then we end on a high. The food needs work. All meals are included in the rates, but it is not very good. And you are far from the nearest town to go to a better place. On a positive note. Great accomodations. Super friendly staff. Very helpful. The ranch is located in a splendid area with mountain views and not far from Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado. Some packages include trail rides to the dunes, tours to their resident 2000 bison herd, and tours to the seasonal sand hill crane migration at Monte Vista National Wildlife refuge. Simply awesome. Except for the, food this is a great place. Check out Zapata Ranch website
