Our riding program is focused on what you want to do. When you come to the barn, you can decide if you’d like to take one of our daily trail classes or if you’d like to go fast, slow, high, low or anything in between.  We offer a large variety of options everyday, including the popular lunch or all-day rides.  We can ride to the top of Home Mountain and get a stunning view of the continental divide and 12,000 foot Mt. Zirkel, or ride through lush green meadows near the valley floor.  One of our most popular rides meanders alongside the lovely Elk River.  It’s common to see mule deer, elk, antelope, coyote, fox, sharp-tailed grouse, sand hill cranes, hawks and an occasional bear on our rides.  It is always a privilege to see wild animals, one we never take for granted. 

We happily work with beginners every week.  Monday morning starts with an introduction to your horse and a comprehensive orientation.  Our capable wranglers guide you through your first ride and build your confidence throughout the week on a trusted, proven trail horse.  We ride at your ability level, being respectful of your concerns and feelings.  The week will unfold into a natural progression of confidence-building experiences.  We are sure your horse will be a new friend at the end of the week.  It always happens!

This article was originally published October 27, 1997 by our General Manager Johnny Fisher.  We would love to have your opinion on the subject.  Please look for another article on urination in the coming months.

Let’s not beat around the bush.  Why do you stand up in the saddle when your horse is urinating?  Although this question may sound humorous, what is probably more humorous is that I have developed an obsession with this question.
I operate a guest ranch in Colorado, so already my sanity comes into question.
It all started about 10 years ago. We had a new wrangler from Virginia.  This woman had an incredible resume with numerous credentials in the horse industry.  She was giving instruction to a group when one of the horses started urinating.  “Stand up! Stand up!” she cried.  The befuddled guest remained motionless.  “Stand up in the stirrups when your horse is urinating!” she demanded. 

(more…)