Rainbow Trout Ranch

Rainbow Trout Ranch

Rainbow Trout Ranch is the perfect Colorado dude ranch for adults, families, singles, couples, groups and anyone else who wants a great vacation. You will be able to enjoy exceptional horseback riding and superb fly fishing. The ranch also has an awesome children’s program, swimming, day trips to Taos, whitewater rafting and even the chance to ride America’s highest and longest narrow-gauge steam railroad. Rainbow Trout brings timeless simpler pleasures to life in a spectacular setting.

Unique Features: The ranch was recently ranked one of the top five fly fishing ranches in the country. There is over a mile and a half of private fishing on the exceptional Conejos River which flows through the ranch. Catch magnificent rainbow and brown trout in one of the many fishing holes or off the bridge.

Accommodations: The ranch cabins combine Western flair with modern amenities. All of the two- and three-bedroom cabins have fireplaces and feature toiletries, fluffy towels, daily housekeeping service, private bathrooms, comfortable linens and scenic front porches to take in the views. The cabins are picturesquely grouped amongst the aspen and ponderosa pine close to the lodge. They are unique in that most are built from aspen logs, as opposed to the more common pine. Daily housekeeping is provided for all cabins.

As Suite As It Gets: When money is no object, go for the cabins. All accommodations are equally as nice. Configurations vary from quaint two-bedroom cabins to larger three-bedroom cabins all with living rooms and fireplaces. The ranch cabins are beautifully appointed in western themes and each has a wonderful porch and view. At the heart of the ranch is the magnificent lodge.

Dining: Most everything is prepared from scratch, and baking is a specialty. In addition to the wonderful entrees such as steak, ribs, fresh trout, tenderloin and turkey, they always have an abundance of vegetables, fruits and salads. Meals are served family style with all you care to eat. Consideration is given to the requirements of children as well as those with special dietary needs. During the week they may take advantage of the wonderful weather by having frequent barbecue cookouts.

Activities: The ranch owns an excellent string of over ninety horses. Some of the rides take you high into the mountains for spectacular views, others meander up the river through open meadows, and still others will focus more on trotting and loping. In addition to horseback riding, the ranch is well known for its fishing. They have a fly-fishing guide on staff to take you fishing on our stretch of river, and to instruct you in the nuances of the sport.

Spa & Fitness: There is no on-site spa or fitness center, but they may be able to arrange an in-room massage. With all of the amazing outdoor activities and fresh air though, you won’t need them.

Location: Located at 9000 ft in the spectacular Conejos River Valley in the southern Colorado Rockies they are surrounded by the Rio Grande National Forest and bordered by the San Juan Wilderness giving them endless and varied country to explore and enjoy. The proximity to northern New Mexico means you can combine the splendor of the Rockies with the enchantment of the southwest. Many guests spend a night or two in Santa Fe on their way to or from the ranch.

Closest Airport: Denver, Colorado is 240 miles, Colorado Springs, CO is 185 miles.

Children’s Programs: Yes, for children aged three and older, the ranch offers supervision by qualified counselors and full daytime activities. Options for kids include riding, both in the arena and on trails with instruction, fishing, hiking, nature study, swimming, crafts, PB&J lunch rides and more!

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: The sound of the train whistle pretty much defines the southern Colorado town of Antonito. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the big draw for visitors. The train, which leaves daily from the old station in Antonito, traverses the Cumbres Pass and ends up 64 miles away in Chama, New Mexico, where riders can catch a bus back to the starting point. It is touted as the longest and highest narrow-gauge train still running, but be warned: This is no luxury excursion with plush seats and fancy dining car. Be prepared to experience the train as Western travelers did more than a century ago.

www.rainbowtroutranch.com