10 Best Dude Ranches in Colorado

Walking into the Vista Verde Guest Ranch is like stepping onto a Hallmark movie set with cozy leather couches, a grand fireplace, and windows looking out onto the snowy valley. Enjoy a mix of the rustic Wild West in Steamboat Springs with a touch of luxury and get your fill of Rocky Mountain cuisine, amazing scenery, and outdoor activities.

Staying at the all-inclusive Vista Verde Guest Ranch is just as pleasant in the summer as it is in the winter. Enjoy that famous Colorado sunshine by the outdoor pool or on the back of a horse. Parents can take a break while the kids are off enjoying the special programs offered for toddlers through teens.

The scenery at C Lazy U Ranch cannot be beat. Picture a herd of mule deer sweeping across a valley of vibrant blooming fireweed with the babbling Willow Creek in the background. Now imagine what you can see on this 8,500-acre (3,440-hectare) property while on the back of a horse.

As one of the best dude ranches in Colorado, there are a variety of cabins you can stay in at C Lazy U Ranch, ranging from basic to luxury, and each one is certified cozy. You can enjoy the wood-fired eats made at the ranch, or its prime Granby location makes it easy to escape into the charming mountain town if you’re looking for something a little different one night.

Lost Valley Ranch in the San Isabel National Forest of Colorado caters to the outdoorsy. From spring to fall this dude ranch offers a variety of adventurous activities like archery courses, trapshooting, and guided horseback riding. For those looking to relax, the heated swimming pool, hot tubs, and in-room massages are waiting. Don’t miss a chance to join in on evening square dancing, a fun activity for all.

There’s a lot to love about Lost Valley Ranch, the food being one of them. The chefs at this dude ranch are all about accommodation. Whether you have allergies or want something special for a mountainside picnic, they’ll cook up something just for you with fresh, local ingredients.

At Parshall’s Bar Lazy J, visitors are treated to a real dude ranch experience. Horseback riding is one of the main draws and the staff are ready to tailor it to any experience level. Don’t miss the breakfast ride where you’ll be served biscuits and gravy cooked over the campfire. Don’t worry, the ranch isn’t stuck in the ways of the old west. You’ll find modern thrills to occupy your time, too, like zip lining and mountain biking.

They have 2 types of accommodations: small private cabins or the large ranch house complete with a full kitchen. If you find yourself coming back to Bar Lazy J, returning guests get a discount that increases with each visit.

A quiet mountain vacation awaits at 4UR Ranch, one of Colorado’s best dude ranches. Though the ranch is a bit smaller than others, with only 4 guest cabins, you can still accommodate your entire family here as the cabins range in size from 3 to 6 bedrooms. And each cabin is within close proximity of the lodge while still feeling totally private.

Hiking and mountain biking through Goose Creek Valley are top activities at 4UR Ranch. Guests also enjoy golfing at the Rio Grande Club, archery, fly fishing, and clay shooting. When you’re done with your activities of choice, relax in either the indoor or outdoor natural hot springs pool.

If you’re looking for a traditional dude ranch, then Rainbow Trout Ranch is the place for you and yours. This old west property in Pine, Colorado will have you riding horses and catching trout in no time. They’ll even cook the fish you caught for a special dinner that same night.

Rainbow Trout Ranch offers 2 types of accommodations: rooms in the historic grand lodge or private cabins. Upgrade your stay with their all-inclusive package that includes food and all activities on the ranch. Some activities, like whitewater rafting, are only offered seasonally.

Out near the breathtaking Red Feather Lakes, you’ll find Sundance Trail Guest Ranch. Whether you’re looking for a trout fishing vacation solo or a romantic getaway under the stars with your partner, this dude ranch can meet your preferences.

Spend evenings around the campfire listening to cowboy singers. Play a round of Rocky Mountain disc golf. Take a guided horseback ride through Roosevelt National Forest. There is so much to do at Sundance Trail Guest Ranch, and that’s without even mentioning the adorable and rustic guest suites and cabin accommodations.

Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is a popular venue for weddings and family reunions. If you want the full dude ranch experience, though, book one of their all-inclusive packages for hearty western meals, daytime activities such as rock climbing and horseback riding, and nighttime activities like s’mores around the campfire and western dancing.

You can also get your fix of wild watching at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch. Birders flock here for its proximity to Pawnee National Grasslands and Rocky Mountain National Park where hundreds of bird species nest or migrate through. And you may see bighorn sheep, coyote, and moose while hiking or riding the trails.

Latigo Ranch stands out as a dude ranch you can enjoy just as much in summer as in winter. In the summer it’s all about fly fishing and horseback riding. In the winter you can ski, cross-country ski, tube, snowshoe, and so much more. Just note that the all-inclusive rates vary from summer to winter.

Looking for a special experience? Latigo Ranch offers themed weeks, such as women’s week, adults only week, and cattle round-up week where you can help the ranchers move the cattle from summer to winter pastures. And foodies will appreciate the monthly dinner clubs, an 8-course fine dining feast with a new, inventive menu each visit.

Music Meadows Ranch is a true haven for horses and those who love them. During your stay at the ranch, you’ll not only get a chance to ride but also learn how to care for the horses and learn even a bit of horse psychology. And what better place to ride than the picturesque meadows of the Wet Mountain Valley? End a day of hard work with a home-cooked meal made from local ingredients.

At Music Meadows Ranch, you’re required to book for more than 1 night at a time. But there is so much to do in the remote Sangre de Cristo Wilderness area, you wouldn’t want to just stay for 1 night only.