Horseback Riding
at our Colorado Lodge
Saddle Up for Adventure: Explore the Trails of Rawah Ranch
Embark on an unforgettable horseback riding adventure at Rawah Ranch, where the spirit of the west comes alive! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Colorado’s high country as you explore a network of over 22 trails, traversing through aspen groves, peaceful valleys, and past cascading waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, Rawah Ranch caters to all skill levels, ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience for everyone.
Unwind on Scenic Trails or Challenge Yourself in Breathtaking Terrain
Our on-property trails offer a variety of options to suit your riding desires. Take a leisurely ride through the Valley, soaking in the scenery and keeping an eye out for wildlife. Embark on a scenic journey along the Lily Pond Trail, where the beauty of the landscape unfolds. For a touch of history, explore Peterson Pastures, imagining the days of cowboys and wide-open ranges.
Feeling adventurous? Tackle the scenic Ditch Trail, which winds its way up the west ridge line, offering stunning views and a glimpse of the historic Rawah Diversion Ditch. For panoramic vistas, the Skyline Trail awaits, showcasing breathtaking panoramas of the ranch, sprawling valleys, and the awe-inspiring Rawah Peaks. Please note that some trails, like Skyline, are walk-only due to challenging terrain.
Venture Beyond the Ranch for All-Day Adventures
For experienced riders seeking a full day of exploration, Rawah Ranch offers a selection of off-property adventures. Travel back in time with a guided ride to a historic ghost town, where you can dismount and explore remnants of a bygone era. For breathtaking vistas, embark on the Sand Creek ride, offering unparalleled views of the Rawah Mountain Range. The adventurous Ditch (West Branch) ride takes you on a journey through valleys and along historic ditch roads, while the Middle Mountain Trail offers a scenic exploration through wooded landscapes.
Catering to All Riders: Safety and Instruction
At Rawah Ranch, safety is our top priority. Our experienced wranglers will match you with a suitable horse based on your skill level and ensure you feel comfortable and confident in the saddle. Children ages 6 and under can enjoy introductory riding sessions in our arena under the watchful eyes of our wranglers. With weight and skill level restrictions in place, we strive to create a fun and safe riding experience for all ages.
Plan Your Colorado Horseback Riding Adventure Today
Rawah Ranch is more than just a place to stay; it’s a haven for horse lovers. Contact us today to discuss your ideal riding vacation and let us help you craft an itinerary that perfectly suits your desires. Dust off your boots, saddle up, and get ready to explore the captivating beauty of Colorado on horseback!
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On Property
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The Valley
The Valley: Embark on a leisurely ride through the valley floor, teeming with wildlife. Enjoy scenic vistas and various gaits, from walking and trotting to exhilarating loping (in designated areas).
Lily Pond
Discover a picturesque route along the east ridge, culminating at a stunning lily pad-covered pond – a favorite haunt of moose. This ride offers a mix of walking, trotting (in the valley), and some inclines.
Peterson Pasture
Explore pastures north of the ranch, observing cattle and rodeo bucking horses from a neighboring ranch. This scenic ride offers a delightful combination of open meadows and hilly wooded areas, with opportunities for walking, trotting, and loping.
Waterfall (Walk Only)
Take a scenic walk up the Rawah Trail to a cascading waterfall nestled within the mountains. Dismount and enjoy a short hike to reach this breathtaking natural wonder.
Ditch Trail
Experience a scenic ride along the historic Rawah Diversion Ditch, built in 1910, traversing the west ridge line above the ranch. This route offers stunning views and ledges, with trotting and loping available in the valley.
Skyline Trail (Walk Only)
Ascend to breathtaking viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the ranch, sprawling valleys, and the awe-inspiring Rawah Peaks. This challenging walk is perfect for experienced riders seeking unparalleled scenic rewards.
Off Property/All Day Rides
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Ghost Town
Journey back in time with a guided ride to a historic ghost town from the late 1800s. Explore remnants of the past by dismounting and venturing into the old cabins. Enjoy a mix of walking, trotting, and loping throughout this adventure.
Sand Creek
Embark on an open ride offering unparalleled views of the surrounding area and the majestic Rawah Mountain Range. This exploratory adventure with constant scenic vistas allows for walking, trotting, and loping.
Ditch (West Branch)
Travel through the valley south to the West Branch Trail, returning via the historic Ditch Road. This adventure offers walking, trotting, and loping in designated areas, with some ledges and inclines to navigate.
MIddle Mountain
Explore a mostly wooded landscape northwest of the ranch. This scenic ride offers beautiful ponds and southern views of the valley and mountain ranges, with limited opportunities for loping.
FAQ
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Do i need to know how to ride?
No, we are happy to teach you basics in the arena before you go out on a trail ride.
Is There specific riding attire?
Yes, long pants, preferably jeans, and cowboy boots. We do have boots available to borrow if you do not own a pair.
Can I wear my hat instead of a hemlet?
Guests under 18 years of age are required to wear helmets. Riders 18 and older can sign a waiver and ride without a helmet. Of course you would be allowed to wear any hats you’d like.
Will I ride the same horse the whole week?
Yes, you will ride the same horse unless the wranglers feel there is a need to change it for any reason that may come up.
Do I have to bring my own boots? / What if I don’t own any boots?
No. Rawah Ranch has a room full of boots for kids and adults, many different sizes, for your use during your stay! We just ask that you return them before you leave.
Are there lesson options available if I want to learn more about horseback riding?
Our wranglers are happy to work with you in the arena on improving your skills!
What types of lessons are offered at your Colorado horse ranch?
If you are a beginner we are happy to teach you basics such as mounting, walking, stopping, turning and backing up. For those that are looking for a little more training, we have instructors that will teach you how to lope in the arena. The goal of our lessons is to help you feel more confident with horses and riding, so please ask the wranglers if you would like to work on something specifically.
