Today, my brother and I returned from a long Labor Day weekend stay at Coulter Lake Ranch, and I…read morecouldn't wait to write a review. I am so happy this place exists. In short, this was the most perfect vacation, and I couldn't have asked for a better setting for our sibling getaway.
I hadn't been to a guest ranch previously, so I did a lot of research before choosing Coulter Lake Guest Ranch. In Colorado and elsewhere, there are a lot of guest ranches, many of which might offer more amenities (spa, pool, etc.) at a much higher cost. If you're looking for a chill, secluded, gorgeous, friendly setting and staff members that help you find your own adventure, at a very reasonable cost, this is it. I felt as though I was visiting family friends who owned a ranch. Unlike some other ranches (from what I understand), there isn't much of a schedule here--you set it yourself based on what you'd like, and they make it happen. We went on two horseback rides in three days, we learned how to shoot, and Tim helped us find an amazing nearby hike when we asked about trails. Their horses are SO sweet and well cared for. I didn't have any riding experience and felt very comfortable after the first five minutes.
Staying here is really about what you want to do. It's pretty flexible. My brother and I had a great time building campfires by the lake, taking the canoe for a spin, playing with the dogs...it's a true choose-your-own-adventure vacation. There are certainly "activities" for you to choose from, but to me this place is also about quiet relaxation, enjoying the wilderness, and getting away from everything. It helps that there's no cell service.
I want to also note that the staff (Patti and Pam especially) went out of their way to accommodate our food needs (gluten and soy allergies, vegetarian, etc.), and everything was delicious. Also worth noting is that upon our arrival we promptly got my car stuck in a ditch (oops), and Tim and the gang were pulling it out with their tractor in no time. Thanks y'all!
It was a perfect weekend. We can't wait to return.