Rawah Ranch sits in one of the most remote and unspoiled valleys in North America, which means getting here is half the adventure. Here at Rawah Ranch, days are filled with horseback rides through the valley, fly fishing on the Big Laramie River, and evenings gathered around the campfire. But the experience doesn’t begin and end at the ranch gate. The journey here is dotted with lively mountain towns, craft breweries, storied history, and national parkland. And once you’ve settled in, a few of the West’s best towns and attractions make for easy day trips. Keep reading to discover the best stops to make on your way to and from our Colorado ranch resort.
Getting Here
Most guests arrive via Denver, flying into Denver International Airport and driving about three hours north to the ranch. It’s the most popular route, and it’s lined with the towns and detours below. The second option comes down from the north: fly into Laramie Regional Airport in Wyoming and drive a little over an hour south. It’s the shorter trip, and it opens up a different set of stops along the way.
Boulder
Recommendation: Visit on the drive up from Denver.
About 40 miles northwest of Denver, Boulder is a lively place to stretch your legs.
- Hike or rock climb beneath the iconic Flatirons at Chautauqua Park.
- Wander the shops, restaurants and street performers along the Pearl Street Mall.
- Experience the art and culture of the city at the Museum of Boulder, Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse, or the Boulder Theater.
Loveland
Recommendation: Visit on the drive up from Denver.
Known as “Sweetheart City,” Loveland sits about 55 miles north of Denver. Take your time exploring this artsy town chock-full of museums, gardens, and state parks.
- Take in more than 150 bronze sculptures at the Benson Sculpture Garden.
- Spend time boating, swimming, water skiing, and fishing at Boyd Lake State Park.
- Hike or mountain bike miles of trails at Devil’s Backbone Open Space.
Fort Collins
Recommendation: Visit on the drive up from Denver.
Fifteen miles north of Loveland, Fort Collins is home to one of the best craft beer scenes in the country. Learn about the city’s rich history, wander down to the river, or raise a pint before the final stretch to the valley.
- Grab a drink at over 20 different craft breweries around Fort Collins.
- Explore the shops, restaurants and charm of historic downtown.
- Bike, hike and fish along the Cache la Poudre River and Horsetooth Reservoir.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Recommendation: Visit as a detour off the Denver route.
Of all the ways to break up the drive, this is the one worth the extra miles. Enter from Estes Park and give yourself an afternoon among some of the most spectacular trails, mountain views and wildlife in the West, a fitting prelude to the wilderness waiting at the ranch.
- Take in sweeping alpine views along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the country.
- Hike to alpine lakes like Bear Lake, Emerald Lake and Dream Lake.
- Watch for elk, moose and bighorn sheep across the park’s meadows.
Laramie
Recommendation: Visit on the drive down from Wyoming, or as a day trip from the ranch.
Just over an hour north of Rawah, Laramie is worth an afternoon for its Wild West history, museums and outdoor recreation. It’s also your gateway if you fly into Laramie Regional Airport, and an easy outing once you’ve settled in.
- Explore the rich history of Laramie at the Wyoming Territorial Prison, Laramie Railroad Depot, and the downtown district.
- Time your visit for Laramie Jubilee Days, a July celebration of Wyoming’s statehood with PRCA rodeos, live music and parades.
Cheyenne
Recommendation: Visit as a day trip from the ranch.
Wyoming’s capital sits about a two-hour drive away and is steeped in western heritage.
- Get outdoors among the striking rock formations at Vedauwoo Recreation Area or Curt Gowdy State Park.
- Plan around Cheyenne Frontier Days, the “Daddy of ’em All” and the world’s largest outdoor rodeo, held each July with rodeos, parades and live concerts.
- Discover western art and history at the Wyoming State Museum, Cheyenne Depot Museum and Wyoming State Capitol building.
Plan Your Trip to Our Colorado Ranch Resort
The stops along the way are part of the fun, but the real reward waits at the end of the road. Everything is taken care of once you arrive, including lodging, meals and activities. Book your all-inclusive stay at our Colorado ranch resort and start planning your trip today!