Elk Mountain Ranch

Elk Mountain Ranch

Elk Mountain Ranch is the highest guest ranch in the state of Colorado at 9,600 feet elevation. The ranch is nestled among aspen and evergreen on Little Bull Creek surrounded by the San Isabel National Forest. A 10-mile dirt road is your gateway to adventure. The Ranch overlooks the Arkansas Valley and features breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks. The area the ranch is located in has the largest collection of peaks over 14,000 feet in the lower 48 states and the views are incredible.

Unique Features: Whitewater rafting around the ranch are spectacular! Ride the rapids of the roaring Arkansas River through the heart of Brown’s Canyon and the most recently designated Browns Canyon National Monument. Enjoy a full-day raft trip with lunch on the river bank. You will be in the hands of a thoroughly professional and bonded rafting company who will provide fully equipped white-water rafts, expert boatmen, and life jackets. Wetsuits and booties are available to rent for a minimal charge.

Accommodations: You’ll feel quite at home in Elk Mountain’s Colorado ranch lodging. Enjoy cozy log cabins, Pioneer Lodge rooms, or the spacious suite in the main lodge. All accommodations have private baths and are tastefully furnished with western decor. Daily housekeeping is provided. Fresh flowers and a gift basket await your arrival.

As Suite As It Gets: When money is no object, go for the Bighorn Cabin which is one of the most spacious options. There is a king bed in the master bedroom, a second bedroom with bunk bed, and a bathroom with shower. A large sitting area also has a day bed. The covered front porch overlooks the pond. Being tucked in the pine trees near the Main Lodge and play area makes The Bighorn Cabin great for families with young children. Sleeps 5 persons.

Dining: Three full-course meals each day delight both hearty and discerning appetites. From home-cooked breakfasts and trail ride cookouts to hors d’oeuvres, a candlelight supper and indulgent desserts, Elk Mountain Ranch is sure to satisfy every taste. Children’s items are offered and special diets are happily accommodated. Relax on the lodge deck before dinner and enjoy the daily appetizers.

Activities: Days at the ranch are filled with horseback riding, whitewater rafting, hiking, riflery, fishing, mountain biking and other activities set against a backdrop of magnificent vistas. Each day promises exhilarating outings and activities including a van trip to Aspen over Independence Pass, a children’s program for ages 3-7, an excursion to Brown’s Canyon Adventure Park, and evening entertainment.

Spa & Fitness: The ranch does not have a spa or fitness center but they may be able to arrange for an in-room massage.

Location: The ranch is in the heart of the Rockies, adjacent to the Browns Canyon National Monument and situated within the San Isabel National Forest near Buena Vista, Colorado. A pleasant two hour drive from Denver or Colorado Springs brings you to the heart of the Rockies. The town of Buena Vista is known as the “white water capital of Colorado.”

Closest Airport: The ranch is a pleasurable 2 1/2 hour drive from the Denver International Airport.

Children’s Programs: The ranch offers a full kids’ program for children ages 3-7 years of age. Two children’s counselors will offer youngsters a supervised, fun-filled day of activity for their vacation. Children 8 and older are usually able to participate in our regular ranch activities, but are always welcome to join this program. The Children’s Program offers kids riding in the arena, hiking, fishing, arts and crafts, and caring for the petting zoo animals while still ensuring plenty of quality family time.

Pet Friendly: No, unfortunately pets are not allowed.

Weddings: No, they don’t normally host weddings, although they may by special request.

Meetings: No, unfortunately, they simply don’t have the space to accommodate large groups.

Extra Info: Fall is exclusively for adults. Enjoy Adult-Only Weeks for Couples, Singles or Parents Who “Need a Break.” The tranquility and stillness are uninterrupted, whether you’re riding through the aspen forests or curling up with a favorite book by a crackling fireplace. With a focus on riding and relaxation, the adult-only weeks have proven to be quite popular.

www.elkmtn.com