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About
#1 of 20 Specialty lodging in Buena Vista
Location
5.0
Cleanliness
5.0
Service
5.0
Value
4.9
Nestled in the San Isabel National forest with off-the-beaten path charm. Near Buena Vista, Colorado and adjacent to the Browns Canyon National Monument. Weekly package includes meals, lodging and activities - horseback riding, white water rafting, shooting sports, van trip to Aspen, excursion to ropes & adventure park, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, hayride, square dance, childrens' program and more. Massage extra. 35 pampered guests.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Hot tub
Free breakfast
Archery
Bicycle rental
Babysitting
Books, DVDs, music for children
Wifi
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary tea
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Bicycles available
Game room
Hiking
Horseback riding
Entertainment staff
Evening entertainment
Fishing
Karaoke
Patio
Water park offsite
Board games / puzzles
Children's playground
Indoor play area for children
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids club
Kids' outdoor play equipment
Highchairs available
Airport transportation
Shuttle bus service
Full body massage
Massage
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Clothes dryer
Laundry service
Self-serve laundry
Washing machine
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Room features
Housekeeping
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Green
Hotel links
Location
Contact
13000 Cr 185B, Buena Vista, CO 81211
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Property's Favorite Review
I've been lucky enough to have been to 3 dude ranches in my life, all in Colorado. The first was when I was 10 and I've always said it was my favorite family vacation as a child. I went again with my family as an adult and it was also another great vacation. I was finally able to talk to my husband into going to this one this past August and it's a trip we will never forget. Pick up at the airport was very easy and appreciated. The instructions that are sent to you after you have made your deposit are very informative and we were easily able to pick Tom out of a crowd after our flight landed. The ride to the ranch was beautiful and comfortable. Once we arrived at the rance we were met by smiling staff and taken on a tour of the grounds and our room. Our room, was well appointed, rustic and comfortable. The owners, Tom and Sue are first class hosts. Tom is the consumate professional when it come to safety and well being of his horses, staff and especially his guests. He gave one of the best horse safety orientaion and riding on our fist full day I have ever experienced. But as safety conscious as he is he wants everyone to enjoy their experience. Sue, is the consumate host. Joyous, happy, and bending over backwards to go out of her way to make sure everyone enjoys their stay and fulfills the needs of guests. Tom and Sue, after so many years owning this ranch have perfected the art of hiring staff. We enjoyed all the wranglers as well as the kitchen and housekeeping staff. Everyone was amazing. The wranglers were wonderful to stop and take pictures with our phones anytime I asked and I truly appreciated that. They are all so good and experienced and give wonderful instruction and feedback throughout the rides. The location of the ranch is absolutely breathtaking! I am not an experienced rider but have ridden many times. I love that the groups were small and toward the end of the week, based on experience and whether you wanted the opportunity to trot or canter. I had never cantered before and finally had the opportunity to do it at Elk Mountain and it was truly a rush I will never forget. All the horses are wonderful, but I fell in love with Willow. She was so gentle and handled better than any horse I have ever had. The horses are loved and cared for beyond measure. There are so many activiites you can do OR not do. It was nice to not have a TV or get phone calls. It was nice to just be still when you wanted to. For my husband and I it was nice we get away from an elevation of 10 and experience the wild west at 9400 ft. Elk Mountain is a perfect family vacation, Couples vacations or even a girls or boy trip. We are planning on coming back with some friends next time. I think once you have experienced this place, you can't really get it out of your head. My husband and I have been be fortunate to travel the world and this rates as one of our top vacations.…
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Date of stay: August 2021
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Dec 11, 2021
Thank you and looking forward to seeing you in 2022!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Traveling is one of my favorite things to do. I’ve been all over the states and Europe and this destination definitely ranks near the top of my list, for many reasons. Beautiful views, lots of riding, amazing company and staff, and a lot of fun and relaxing activities. As soon as I got out of my car, several staff introduced themselves right away and helped us to our room. The cabin was very nice and comfortable and the food was always amazing. I appreciated the unlimited coffee while my daughter enjoyed the unlimited cookies. We loved everything about the riding. Many beautiful views, opportunities to trot and canter, and super friendly and knowledgeable staff. Safety was a priority, which is always important with kids. Our horses were super sweet and good. We miss them! I enjoyed riding in smaller groups and getting to talk with everyone. I think this place probably attracts a very good type of people/crowd that you’ll enjoy being around. Tom and Sue seem very good at hiring an awesome staff. Can’t say enough good things about our experience. I loved all of the activities and the down time. I’m an over-scheduler and tend to do way too much on vacation but this was exactly the kind of relaxation that I needed after the past year. The musicians were so much fun to watch and very interesting people. We loved the rafting, fishing, archery, and game room, and personally I was a big fan of the hot tub and massage therapist. The staff was very accommodating to any interests my daughter showed, including letting her groom and untack a horse, feed and walk the baby animals, ride in the truck to feed the horses, and even played games with her. They’ve even gotten me into some trouble now as she keeps telling me she wants me to cook meals as well as them and get her more animals lol. Overall, this was a wonderful experience that we won’t forget and we can’t recommend this place enough!…
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Date of stay: August 2021Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Dec 11, 2021
You and your kiddo were a joy. It was truly our pleasure!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My brother and I just spent the best week of vacation in the last 40 years. The all inclusive Elk Mountain Ranch had everything we wanted to do and more. The food was fantastic and plentiful. The owners, Tom and Sue were both very professional and friendly. Their staff were super! They all went above and beyond all week long. Sometimes they made me tired just watching them. What we loved the most about the vacation was the pace of things. There were always plenty of options of things to do but you didn't feel rushed to get to any one activity. The horseback riding was great and we both learned a lot about the animals. Our technique (or lack of ) was improving every day and it became easier and easier to ride. It goes without saying that the views were breathtaking. Thanks to all for making this such a wonderful vacation.…
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Date of stay: July 2021
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Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Dec 11, 2021
Thank you for spending your brother bonding week with us!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This all inclusive ranch offers a non-stop action vacation or layback, enjoy the vacation. Great staff, great location, great food. Very clean, too. Horse back riding, white water rafting, and shooting are some of what is offered. Clear skies, dark night for stars and crisp morning air are all on offer. The fully inclusive package is a great bargain, too. Sue and Tom actively manage a good size ranch and staff. Check it out.
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Date of stay: June 2021
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Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Dec 11, 2021
Thank you for your kind review.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Elk Mountain Ranch is amazing, simply put! We have 4 children (ages 8-15) and travel a lot. This has been one of, if not the best, family trips we have ever been on and even the kids didn't want to leave. Owners Tom and Sue have truly made this a remarkable experience, treating every guest as if they are family. Being that we visited during Covid-19, the already small number of guests at the ranch was even smaller, which allowed us to get get to know the other guests as well. We were fortunate enough to be there with a really fun group of people who were friendly, interesting, and became part of our ranch family. The staff at the ranch are an amazing group of young people who are outgoing, motivated, and very talented not to mention super nice- they were so great with all my kids! The activities never get boring- from the beautiful and well mannered horses to the white water rafting, shooting, archery, rope course, corn hole, feeding the baby animals (which my kids did a lot!). The country side is gorgeous and you never go on the same trail ride twice. Even the food was top notch- I have to give a huge shout out to Michelle, the chef while we were there. She hopes to open her own restaurant some day and I will definitely be there when she does! Overall, I can't say enough about this ranch as an experience for your whole family! We will be back for sure.…
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Date of stay: August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Oct 26, 2020
Nishi - you have an awesome family. Please tell the kids thank you for all of their help. Future wranglers and petting zoo keepers!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
This summer we made our third trip to Elk Mountain Ranch. And, as always, it felt like we were coming home. The owners, Tom and Sue Murphy, have run the ranch since the 80's and they truly make everyone who passes through their gates feel like family! One of the best things about Elk Mountain Ranch is it is a "boutique" dude ranch, hosting only 30 guests at a time! Because of this intimate atmosphere, you are able to bond with the other guests and, sometimes, make lifelong friends! The staff is absolutely stellar -- well trained, so so helpful, and some of the kindest, friendliest people you will ever meet. Upon arrival they are all there to greet you by name and make you feel so welcome. Our favorite time at the ranch is spent on their amazing horses -- you get your very own horse for the week, so you are also able to make a special bond with your horse! The location of the ranch encompasses some of the most beautiful lands in Colorado which make for incredible views and photo opportunities! Other fun activities include the thrilling white water raft trip down the Arkansas River and visit to Aspen via the Continental Divide! The food is delicious, and I am very pick about what I eat. LOL. We love it all and would highly recommend if you love the mountains, horses, and the great outdoors! We will be back a fourth time, FOR SURE!…
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Date of stay: June 2020
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Oct 26, 2020
We always love having you and are so thankful for your kind words. Hope to see you for number 4!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
7 full days of fun and adventure, Sue and Tom and their family, wranglers and staff made me feel like I was in summer camp again. We stayed in the Elk cabin above the lodge and I awakened to the smell of bacon and breakfast every morning. Everyone was friendly and felt like family. Tom and his wranglers take very good care of their stock and tack. Every ride was well planned. The horses were well trained. Each guest was fitted to their horse. There was rifle and trap shooting (overseen by Tom and his staff), white water rafting on the Arkansas river, line dancing, bonfires with s’mores and over the week all of us came together as a group of friends. Wonderful!!!
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Date of stay: August 2020
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Call Sue, she will organize the best room for you.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Oct 26, 2020
Always young at heart Coleen. Thank you for a great time. We enjoyed you - and my mom sure loved your company.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I spent a week at Elk Mountain ranch in mid July and hated to leave. Tom and Sue Murphy have created a very special place to relax and take in some of the most scenic area in Colorado . The ranch is located in the middle of the San Isabel National Forest so the horseback rides I went on were in areas that looked as pristine as they must have 200 years earlier , views at times were breathtaking . The ranch has a very cozy and family oriented atmosphere and the meals are all family style , food is excellent . The staff are all friendly and helpful , and there is very deliberate attention paid to make sure each horse ride is both fun and safe. There are other things besides horse back riding to enjoy as well as great views to just sit and admire from around the ranch. One of the employees I was most impressed with was a young man named Richard who was the head of the maintenance department , I found him to be very helpful when asked to do something . Overall I cannot recommend this place enough , for families , couples or a single person who just wants to get away to the mountains . A memorable place and trip, I look forward to returning . Nick Bragorgos…
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Date of stay: July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Oct 26, 2020
Thank you for your kind words. And, yes, the staff was amazing! We are so blessed to have spent the summer with all of these special young folks.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We visited Elk Mt. Ranch this June and once again found it to be so welcoming with Tom and Sue leading an outstanding staff. The scenery is magnificent and the rides range from easy to challenging. The food is too good and the accommodations just right for a ranch vacation. Lots of activities to keep all in the family interested and all this was accomplished with COVID-19 precautions, cleaning and activities modified to maximize safety. This is our favorite vacation and we suspect it will be yours.
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Date of stay: June 2020
Value
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Room Tip: The accommodations are all shown online so you can pick which one suits you best.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Oct 26, 2020
So glad we can be your favorite vacation (and that is not taken lightly as we know that you have traveled to many wonderful places). So glad you were ready to get out and travel - we thank you for your trust in us.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Tom and Sue were such gracious hosts during these uncertain times. If you are looking for a safe vacation this is the one for you! The accommodations were superior to a hotel room. The cabin my husband and I shared with our daughter and granddaughter was immaculate and so comfortable. Every day had multiple activities to chose from that were included in the price. Even if you were the only guest fishing or shopping the amazing staff happily took you to your destination. You want a special picture the wrangler jumped off their horse to take one for you! The countryside is so pristine and beautiful every ride was different. From Ponderosa Pines to a grove of Aspen's. Even if you have never ridden a horse before the instruction you are given will have you feeling like a pro at the end of the week. The food was amazing, and the staff treated you like a 5 star restaurant would. I cannot not say enough about this amazing group of people so warm and welcoming from the minute you arrive until you leave. if this is not on your bucket list you are really missing out!…
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Date of stay: June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from Sue Murphy, Owner at Elk Mountain Ranch
Responded Oct 26, 2020
Yes, it was nice to get away from the "real world". Wasn't it? Our small size, individual cabins and outdoor activities certainly make for an ideal vacation in these uncertain times. We all feel the need for a little adventure - and we are so glad you chose us.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ALSO KNOWN AS
elk mountain ranch hotel buena vista
LOCATION
United StatesColoradoChaffee CountyBuena Vista
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
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Frequently Asked Questions about Elk Mountain Ranch
Which popular attractions are close to Elk Mountain Ranch?
Nearby attractions include San Isabel National Forest (4.5 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Elk Mountain Ranch?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Elk Mountain Ranch?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Does Elk Mountain Ranch have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Elk Mountain Ranch offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does Elk Mountain Ranch have airport transportation?
Yes, Elk Mountain Ranch offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Elk Mountain Ranch?
Yes, laundry service and self serve laundry are offered to guests.
Does Elk Mountain Ranch have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.