Activities

Our ranches are places out of storybooks, capturing the allure and majesty of the great West. Both ranches are natural wonderlands, with gorgeous mountain slopes give way to green meadows and gentle creeks, leading to dense forests and breathtaking vistas in one of the most peaceful settings on earth. Of course you and your guests will want to simply breathe in the deeply refreshing air, stretch your limbs and relax—what place could be better?—but when you’re ready to get out and explore, we’ve got it all. With the size and the scope of the ranch, activities are endless; you can choose from a menu of recreations.

All of our activities are designed to help you unwind and truly appreciate the rugged and rural lifestyle of traditional country living and adventuring. No matter what activity you choose, know that you are taking part in something bigger: a part of our nation's history in the making of this great territory.

If your focus is fitness, get energized with guided hikes, guided meditation, yoga or mountain biking. Tired of sitting around? Get your body moving and grab some fresh air as you hike through the stirring scenery of the Ranch. Whether you are an experienced equestrian or have never set foot near a horse, horseback riding is a great way to experience the true beauty of the Hill Country. Of course fishing and hunting is big here: There is no shortage of fishing, wing shooting, and big-game hunting opportunities. Here's a quick overview:

• Horseback Riding: Explore trail rides, lessons, breakfast rides, steak rides, moonlight rides, overnight pack trips, and more.

  Want a great work out with a combination of rugged and smooth terrain? We've got it here. You'll get a great workout in a natural setting.

• Hunting: Wing shooting and big game hunting seasons (September–February).
• Fishing: For everyone from kids to experienced fly fishermen, there's private river access, trophy trout and a great outdoors experience.
• Nature Walks, Birding, Hiking: New worlds to explore on foot, on your own or with an experienced birder or naturalists.
• Entertainment: Imagine sitting around a nice campfire one starry night and being personally serenaded by an authentic cowboy band. It's a rare treat at High Lonesome, reserved for special occasions, and it's always a crowd-pleaser.
• Massages: A great way to relax before or after the big event. After your rugged days in the field, how about a relaxing deep tissue or Swedish massage in your room? It's guaranteed to take away the muscle fatigue. (call for pricing).

Wildlife viewing

With a variety of habitats and elevations ranging from 5000 to 9000 ft., the High Lonesome Ranch provides great opportunities to see all kinds of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, bears, eagles, cougars, falcons, songbirds and more. For some visitors, a drive or a jaunt throughout our rich, lush property is enough.

Equestrian adventures

There are miles and miles of trails, perfectly suited to horseback riders of all ages and experiences, and the possibilities vary. To ride while your spouse is pursuing game, we offer guided Western through half- and full-day excursions. Our trip leaders bring Quarter horses and tack, and are thoroughly knowledgeable about local history as well as the regional flora and fauna. If you've already got your own horse, bring him along! Keep him in our corral and follow the trails.

And if you'd like to spend an entire week on horseback, ride the High Ranch from cabin to cabin. We'll prepare gourmet meals under the stars, bring along your gear and provisions and rendezvous at a camp in the afternoon. After a peaceful night's rest, we'll ride again. It goes without saying that we won't forget the water, oats and hay for your horse, either.

Ecotourism and Science Activities

Some visitors love to get their hands dirty while doing something good for the planet. We have a number of ways guests can contribute to our conservation activities if they want to join the exciting scientific research and ecological restoration efforts on the ranch.

Conservation and the Environment

The Ranch has taken on a major conservation agenda. Our involvement is simple—we protect and augment the land we feel privileged to own. We're proud to be involved in these endeavors and to be working closely with these networks of people protecting networks of land and wildlife. We ask you to join with us in protecting and preserving the land.

Off-property activities through our affiliates

There's golfing at The Redlands Golf Course, billed as "like playing golf along the bottom of the Grand Canyon, with a couple of sojourns to the Garden of the Gods thrown in." And there's Battlement Mesa, ranked as one of the "Best Courses in America You Can Play" by Golf Digest. The routing takes full advantage of its one-of-a-kind setting: a high-plains plateau overlooking the Colorado River. Both are available nearby. There's exciting whitewater rafting on the Roaring Fork or the Colorado. Another diverting option are the wine tours available in the neighborhood.

After your big day is done

Enjoy our fire pit surrounded by the mountain in the evening. Try our pleasant walkways, benches, and secluded porches, which also give you ample opportunity to relax in the beautiful rural surroundings at the ranch. You can also unwind in the air-conditioned ranch lodge, complete with books, TV, and games. And you'll find much to savor about our ranch chef's preparations of special cuisine.

Whether a wedding party, family reunion or corporate event, our ranches can serve your needs for fun, relaxation and adventure. Book the entire ranch, if you like.