Go with the guys, girls, family, as a couple or with your business team. Whatever combination you choose, a dude ranch experience at the all-inclusive Latigo Ranch in Kremmling, Colo., will refresh, renew and invigorate your outlook on life. Operating as a dude ranch in the summer and a Nordic ski lodge in the winter, each season offers special experiences and, along the way, you’ll improve your horsemanship, archery, rope twirling and even tomahawk-throwing skills.

Latigo Ranch is all about the stunning panoramic views of the Continental Divide. With 550 acres of private land located at 9,000 feet, spruce and aspen trees, waterfalls, sagebrush, meadows and streams envelop the property. With more than 200 miles of trails meandering through 40,000 acres of national forest, it’s perfect for hiking and horseback riding under the guidance of an experienced wrangler.

Family-owned and -operated for the past 30 years, don’t be surprised to see how involved Randy and Lisa George and their extended family are in the cooking, horsemanship, fly-fishing and general activities of the ranch. By the end of their stay, guests feel they are part of the family.

Another reason the Cloud family continues to return is the quality of the horses. “Our first visit to Latigo was in 1998. We kept going back because of the quality of the horses, the great people and the warm welcome we knew would be there for us,” said Lacey Cloud from Rockwall, Texas, who has been going to Latigo Ranch for years with her family. “My kids’ first vacation memories are at Latigo and they tell stories about their favorite wranglers, most exciting horse adventure and their favorite meal at Latigo.”

My room, located in a log four-plex, was named Saddle Pad while my travel companions had rooms with appropriate dude ranch names: Cinch, Riggin’ and Bedroll. Each guest unit had its own porch and outside entrance. Wood-burning stoves add extra cozy comfort, and homemade caramel corn is topped off each day, adding a sweet note to the stay. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tub and a main lodge with games, WiFi and a Social Club.

While some of us failed to bring appropriate riding attire, you can borrow cowboy and cowgirl hats, boots, riding helmets, saddle bags and rain coats during your stay.

With a guest capacity of 35, Latigo Ranch is more boutique and charming than cavernous and touristy. There’s no need to drive as the nearest airport is in Denver (DEN) — just less than three hours, or 145 miles, from the ranch. Affordable shuttle service is available to Kremmling from the airport, from which the ranch picks guests up for the final 10-minute leg.

Latigo Ranch

201 County Road 1911
Kremmling, CO 80459
tel 970 724 9008