Rustic Retreats
These trip ideas are perfect for those whose ideal vacation requires a healthy blend of equine activities, outdoor adventure and peaceful nature — all made better with a little cowboy flair.
A bottomless cookie box and riverside cabins are just two of the treats you’ll find at the state’s oldest continuously operating dude ranch. Fish the Colorado River’s Gold Medal waters, whiz down mountain ziplines or take on the horseback challenge course. While there’s no lack of family fun, parents never bellyache about getting some grown-up time thanks to all-day kids’ programs.
Start your morning by hiking to watch the sun rise over the San Juan Mountains, with coffee and muffin in hand. Then, spend a day rafting, shooting, fishing or just plain unwinding on the porch and enjoying only-in-Colorado views. At night, kick up your spurs to live music before falling asleep to the sound of ponderosa pines quivering in the mountain breezes.
Warm wood paneling and cozy wool rugs make these streamside cabins so comfortable you may be tempted to stay inside all day. But float trips down the river, horseback riding, ziplining and more will lure you outdoors. With an under-5 program, children of all ages can saddle up here, and the days wind down with kiddo-produced talent shows and line dancing.
