The West is calling – will you answer? At C Lazy U Ranch, boredom doesn’t stand a chance. With over 100 all-inclusive activities spread across our 8,500-acre slice of scenic Granby countryside, every day brings new adventures. Saddle up for twice-daily horseback rides through wildflower meadows. Cast a line in pristine Willow Creek with our fly fishing guides. Glide across fresh powder on snowshoes, or cozy up by the fire after an exhilarating sleigh ride. Whether you’re planning summer thrills or winter magic, a romantic getaway or family fun with the kids, every activity – from beginner trail rides to advanced cattle working – is included in your stay. The hardest part? Fitting it all into one week. (Spoiler: most folks don’t, and that’s why they come back year after year.)
The Activity Yurt at C Lazy U Ranch sits on the shore of the pond, you can’t miss it! It is surrounded by a large deck which is a great place to hang out near the water, with lovely and serene views. Inside the Yurt is the equipment desk where staff will get you set up with whatever equipment you need for your chosen activity.
Archery is a complimentary activity at the ranch, using compound bows. Try your skills at traditional targets or three-dimensional targets. Archery is offered Monday-Saturday at 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM in the summer. It’s also offered in the Spring and Fall, see the Activity Schedule for times.
All necessary equipment for this on-ranch activity is provided and there is an extensive safety demonstration performed before all archery sessions begin.
During summer Family Weeks and select fall Adults-Only events, the ranch offers an authentic Cattle Sorting Clinic. Designed for all riding levels, this clinic gives guests a taste of cowboy and cowgirl life. Riders gather cattle, move them to the arena, and work as a team to sort and cut individual cattle from the herd. Maneuvers such as rollbacks and turns on the haunches may be used.
This slower-paced clinic emphasizes teamwork, communication, trust between horse and rider, and developing accurate, thoughtful horsemanship. This activity is included and available for all adults and teens who have passed the lope assessment. Sign up in the Outfitters Cabin!
C Lazy U Ranch has four miles of groomed cross country ski trails located in the main meadow and on the upper mesa of the ranch. Guests are welcome to go out on their own or schedule a guided tour. Check out some of the vacation ski packages we offer. All equipment is provided and coordinated through the Activity Center.
With the Feed Wagon Sleigh you will get the chance to feed our herd of 200 horses up close and learn about the herd dynamics when they are out to Pasture. If you are lucky, you may even spot Petey our miniature Donkey hanging out with his friends in the herd!
The Feed Wagon is only offered during the winter months when the horses are out to pasture and the ranch doesn’t jingle in the herd for trail rides. The Feed Wagon is not offered every day and this typically happens on a Sunday or a check-in/check-out day when the horses are off and we are not doing guest rides.
Guests have complimentary access to C Lazy U’s Fitness Center. The gym is open 24/7, allowing you to work out whenever you’d like. The updated, modern gym features plenty of equipment:
- Free weights
- Machine weights
- Elliptical machines
- Treadmills
Horseback riding and all the other ranch activities offered at C Lazy U Ranch surely gets the blood flowing, but guests who have their own workout routine don’t have to give it up while on a dude ranch vacation. Contact us if you’d like more information about our gym facilities.
Orvis-endorsed fly fishing is available from May to October. Fly-fishing and lure fishing can be enjoyed by all ages at our pond or on two miles along the Willow Creek. Off-ranch excursions to our private stretch of the Fraser River, Colorado River, and Willow Creek are available at an additional cost. Guests can sign up in the Outfitter’s Cabin. All equipment is provided.
The Game Room is located in the basement of the Patio House and offers pool, shuffleboard, air hockey, ping pong, and foosball.
Horseshoes and Volleyball – The horseshoe pit and volleyball court are located on the Patio House lawn and are always ready to play.
Basketball – The basketball court is located behind the tennis courts. Balls are located at the court or in the Activity Center Yurt.
Outdoor Shuffleboard – The shuffleboard court is located behind the tennis courts.
Card Room – The Card Room is located on the first floor of the Main Lodge. Cards and poker sets, as well as a TV, are available.
C Lazy U Ranch has an extensive trail system perfect for hiking. Guests are encouraged to sign up for a guided hike and a skilled ranch hand will guide you through the property on some of the best trails and scenic overlooks. During your hike you will learn about the Rocky Mountain landscape and wildflowers. The ranch can accommodate all skill levels within the 8,500 acres.
Hatchet throwing a fun activity that is offered at the ranch two times each day during the summer and is safe for ages 6 and up. The Director of Activities oversees this activity and ensures it is safe in a controlled environment, so channel your inner lumberjack and throw some hatchets!
Hatchet throwing is offered in Spring, Summer and Fall.
Horseback riding at the ranch is fun for all ages and abilities. The ranch has 200 horses and you’ll be matched with the perfect horse for your entire stay, assigned specifically based on your experience and skill.
Beginner, intermediate, and advanced rides leave twice daily. Cattle working experiences and riding clinics in the arena are offered on certain days; while grooming clinics, trail obstacles and other equestrian activities may be available upon request,.
The Horsemanship Clinic is a groundwork session in the indoor arena. The clinic provides basic groundwork instruction and allows riders to get more comfortable with their horses through a variety of leadership exercises. The clinic is available to adults only with a maximum of 6 people per session and it can be suited to any skill level.
This activity is available upon request and is not offered daily. Please check with the Outfitters Cabin to schedule a Horsemanship Clinic during your stay.
C Lazy U Ranch has been turning city-slickers into (moderately) rough-riding cowboys for nigh on a century now, and our clinic of western skillsmanship doesn’t end there. We’re staffed full of all the best in the West, allowing you to up your game in the saddle, in the river, on the shooting range, or even on a vertical climb.
Today, we’re giving you the inside track on how to throw an axe like Paul Bunyan himself, allowing you to impress (or shark) the next time you’re out hatchet throwing, camping, or spending the time of your life at C Lazy U.
Explore Activities at C Lazy U Ranch
Start With Your Stance
First, you’re not actually chopping anything down or splitting a log, so forget about how you’d typically wield an axe. For most beginners, a two-handed overhead throw is the simplest way to learn, and it starts with a solid, balanced stance.
For recreational hatchet throwing, the designated throwing line is often around 12 feet from the target, although exact distances and rules vary. Always use the throwing line provided by the venue and follow its instructions. Stand facing the target with your feet about shoulder-width apart, your toes generally pointed toward the bullseye and your knees relaxed. Keep your hips and shoulders square rather than twisting your body to generate power. Most importantly, pick one small spot in the center of the target and keep your eyes there. You’re not aiming for the entire target, just the one little spot you want to strike.
Don’t Strangle the Hatchet
A death grip rarely helps in contests of dexterity and skill. Your hatchet should feel secure in your hands without feeling like you’re trying to crush the handle.
For a beginner-friendly two-handed throw, place your dominant hand lower on the handle and your non-dominant hand above it, lightly wrapping around the handle. Keep the hatchet centered in front of your body. Think of the grip you’d use on a golf club: firm enough for control, relaxed enough to let the motion happen naturally. Squeezing harder often comes naturally, but it won’t make the hatchet more accurate. Quite the contrary, a tense grip can make it easier to twist the hatchet as you release, sending it off to one side instead of straight toward the target.
Keep the Throw Simple
Time for the release, and the temptation to really let it rip. Resist the urge.
Start with the hatchet centered in front of you, then raise it smoothly behind and above your head. Bring it forward along that same straight path and release as your hands move forward toward the target, roughly around eye level. Then, follow through toward the bullseye.
The motion you make should feel more like a pendulum than a baseball swing: back, forward, release, follow-through. Keep your elbows reasonably close and avoid swinging the hatchet around your head in a wide arc. The fewer moving parts you introduce, the easier it becomes to repeat the throw.
You don’t need to — and shouldn’t — launch the hatchet with every ounce of strength you have. Your goal is a clean, controlled release that allows the hatchet to rotate naturally and arrive blade-first. That’s especially important since competitive hatchet-throwing rules generally require the hatchet to complete one full rotation before it reaches the target. Even if you’re throwing recreationally, finding the right combination of distance and release is central to making a hatchet stick.
Aim With Your Body, Not Your Wrists
If you’ve ever tried to throw something at a small target, you’ve probably had the instinct to make a last-second correction with your hands. That’s how you miss the mark when axe throwing.
Instead, line up your whole body with the bullseye. Keep the hatchet centered in front of your nose or forehead during setup, keep your shoulders square, and bring the handle forward in a straight vertical plane. Your eyes should stay on the target until the hatchet reaches the wood. If the hatchet repeatedly lands left or right, your aim isn’t necessarily the issue. Check your alignment, as your shoulders might be opening as you throw, your hands might be drifting across your body, or your grip could be twisting during the release. The more consistent your body position is, the easier it becomes to figure out what actually needs adjusting.
Let the Hatchet Tell You What to Fix
One of the best things about hatchet throwing is that the target gives you immediate feedback. And, unlike the complexities of sighting a rifle or getting used to a bow’s draw strength, bodily adjustments in form are quite easy to make. Adjust lightly based on the following table, then repeat the same throwing motion.
| What Happens | Likely Cause | Best Adjustment |
| Blade sticks nearly vertical | Rotation and distance are working | Stay at that distance and refine your aim |
| Top of the hatchet head hits first | The hatchet over-rotated | Move a small step closer to the target |
| Bottom of the hatchet head hits first | The hatchet under-rotated | Move a small step farther back |
| Hatchet lands left or right | Body opened, hands drifted, or grip twisted | Square up and keep the throw on a straight centerline |
| Hatchet bounces out | Weak contact, poor blade angle, or a poor release | Use a smooth but committed forward motion and ask the venue coach to check your distance |
There’s a simple, practical rule you can use for axe throwing: when the handle lands too vertically or the top of the axe head strikes first, move closer; when the bottom strikes first, move back. Adjust in small increments rather than dramatically changing your throw.
Keep It Safe
Hatchet throwing should always take place in a designated throwing area with an appropriate wooden target and clear safety procedures. Always follow the instructions of the facility or instructor, as throwing distances, equipment, and rules can vary. Only one person should throw at a time, and everyone else should remain behind the designated fault line. Wait until the lane is clear and you’ve been told it’s safe before retrieving a hatchet, and use only equipment provided or approved by the facility.
A little common sense goes a long way. Save the showboating for after you’ve put the bladed weapon down, and remain vigilant.
Take Your Western Skills for a Spin at C Lazy U
If you’re looking to add a little friendly competition to your next Colorado ranch vacation, hatchet throwing is a great place to start. At C Lazy U Ranch, it’s part of our broader lineup of Western-inspired activities that give guests a chance to try something thrilling & new, from archery and trap shooting to horseback riding across the ranch’s over 8,500 acres.
You don’t need to arrive knowing how to throw, shoot, or ride. That’s what our knowledgeable instructors and ranch team are there for! Come ready to learn, test yourself, and maybe leave with a new skill or your own western tall tale!
Guests can enjoy ice-skating anytime on our Zamboni-groomed pond, or enjoy a spirited pick-up broom ball or daily hockey game in the afternoon. Figure skates, hockey skates, hockey sticks, and broom ball equipment are all provided.
Note: When the pond is closed due to warmer weather, C Lazy U Ranch offers Archery and Hatchet throwing in the afternoons.
Adults Only at the new Lazy You Hideaway spa lounge. This exclusive retreat offers modern, luxurious amenities, including a rejuvenating hot tub and invigorating cold plunges to help you recover from saddle soreness, and a sauna with a stunning glass wall providing panoramic views of the Continental Divide. Relax and unwind in the comfortable lounge area with a fire pit, knowing that this peaceful haven is strictly for adults, ensuring a tranquil environment. Experience ultimate relaxation and breathtaking scenery at the Lazy You Hideaway.
The award-winning Lazy You Spa is located on the banks of Willow Creek in five heated tents, two of which are massage tents with glass floors suspended over the river. Listen to the gentle flow of the river and recuperate with one of our relaxing massages, a copper tub soak, scrub, or a facial. Winter services are in a different location with a cozy sitting room and crackling fire.
Glamping, “glamorous camping” or “luxury camping,” is a popular family experience at the ranch! Arrive at a scenic remote location to a roaring fire and a Conestoga Wagon outfitted with one king bed, twin-size bunk-bed and a table for two. Propane heaters, plush linens, electric lighting and a s’mores kit make this experience unforgettable. Sign up in the Outfitter’s Cabin.
There are limitless mountain biking trails at C Lazy U. Guided tours take place daily in the early morning and evening May through October. Beginner, intermediate, and expert rides available. The ranch has a full fleet of bikes and provides helmets. Feel free to bring your own riding shoes and pedals.
Note: Mountain Biking is not available when horseback riding is taking place.
From white water rafting on nearby rivers, golf at championship courses, hot air ballooning and local rodeos, we can hook you up with off-ranch excursions like you’ve never done before!
The ranch offers complimentary use of paddle boats on the pond behind the patio house. Life vests are required and there is no lifeguard on duty. We do ask guests to be respectful of any anglers fly fishing on the pond. This activity is a favorite of the kids but is enjoyed by all ages.
The ranch offers Ranger tours around the property to guests who want to see the property in an off-road vehicle. Travel to the highest peaks over the river and through the woods while taking in the breathtaking views. This activity is complimentary all guests.
*There may be an additional charge for this activity for groups – Please refer to your group contract for more detail if you are traveling with a group.
Morning or afternoon sessions are facilitated daily by our certified instructors. The challenge course consists of a rock wall, vertical play pen, and leap of faith finished off by zipping over the river on our 375 foot zip line. Low ropes team building elements are also available.
C Lazy U’s family-friendly Shodeo takes place every Saturday during the summer season in our outdoor riding ring behind the Patio House. Kids show mom and dad all the skills they’ve learned throughout the week. Adults have a chance to compete in pole bending, barrel racing, key hole trials, or the Texas T. Sign up is during lunch on Saturday.
The Mercantile at Luis’ Old Place is the ranch’s general store. This unique store, located in an old donkey barn, houses items you may have forgotten to pack, as well as branded apparel or the perfect unique gift. Get the cowboy boots, hat and belt buckle you have always wanted. Open daily from 8am to 5pm, or shop online with free shipping for orders over $50. Additional shopping options in Grand Lake, Granby, or Winter Park.
Guests wanting to ski at a nearby resort can take the ranch’s complimentary daily shuttles to Ski Granby Ranch and Winter Park Resort. Winter Park was just rated the #1 ski resort in North America by USA Today!
The ranch concierge can also help set up transportation, guided skiing, equipment rentals, lift tickets, and lessons.
Sleigh Rides are available during the winter months.
Sleigh Rides typically venture out into the beautiful meadows for a scenic ride through the snow. On this excursion you will meet our team of Belgian Draft Horses and will learn about the “horsepower” behind these magnificent animals. Sleigh Rides with our team of Belgian’s are available most days at 10:15 a.m. as a group activity for up to 12 people.
Join us for your next family winter vacation sleigh ride adventure!
The ranch has its own private tubing hill on property where you can enjoy a thrilling ride on a one or two person tube. Snowmobiles provide access to the top of the hill. This adventure takes place every afternoon at 2:00 pm during the winter months. Helmets are required and provided and this activity is included at no additional cost.
Looking for a snowmobiling vacation experience in the Colorado Rocky Mountains? C Lazy U Ranch operates its own snowmobile tours on ranch property and has has a fleet of snowmobiles for the guests to use. Tours of up to eight people last two hours and explore a wide variety of ranch terrain. Tours are $150 for one person and $45 per additional rider.
Sign up at the Outfitter’s Cabin. Helmets are required and provided. Must be 16 with a valid driver’s license to drive.
C Lazy U Ranch was voted the 2nd best snowshoe destination in the world by Snowshoe Magazine because of the remarkable trail system and beauty of the ranch. Guests are welcome to explore the ranch’s 8,500 acres on their own or schedule a guided tour. All equipment is provided and coordinated through the Activity Center.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the spring-fed, heated pool which is open mid-May to mid-September. Great for both kids and adults for sunbathing, swimming laps, and playing around.
Enjoy two, family-friendly hot tubs located by the pool and Patio House. The hot tubs are open year-round and are perfect for relaxing those sore muscles after a day in the saddle.
There is no life guard on duty but there is an attendant on site. ADA lift available on-site.
Set against the backdrop of the river, two Laykold tennis courts sit just behind the Patio House — and one is also ready for a spirited game of pickleball. Whether you’re serving up a friendly rally or trying something new, all equipment is provided, and you can reserve your court at the Outfitter’s Cabin.
One of C Lazy U Ranch’s most exciting events is the Daily Jingle. The Jingle is when the horses go out to pasture in the afternoon and come back in the morning to get ready for the daily horseback rides. It is called the Jingle because in the past bells were tied on the mischievous horses who liked to hide from being rounded up by wranglers in the dark, early mornings.
This event happens almost every day of the year and goes out and comes in from different directions on ranch depending on the selected pasture location. You can expect to see this in the afternoon from 4-5pm and in the morning from 6:30am to 8:30am depending on the season (it’s always earlier in the summer). In the afternoons we ring the “jingle bell” to alert guests so they can come out to experience this unique spectacle.
Trap shooting is available twice daily, guests can sign-up in the Outfitter’s Cabin. This activity requires an additional charge of $50.00 per person. A wide range of age appropriate firearms are available, including a .22, .410, and 12 gauge shot gun. Ranch personnel is extensively trained in gun safety and each guest is required to attend a safety briefing before shooting.
For the safety of our staff and guests, please leave your personal firearms at home. Thank you!
We ride year-round at C Lazy U Ranch! There’s nothing quite like the beauty and quiet of a snowy trail ride over the hills and through the woods on our carefully maintained winter trails. In winter, our rides move at a gentle, walk-only pace to ensure safety and comfort for both horse and rider, letting you fully savor the stillness of the season. A winter ride at C Lazy U offers a peaceful, unforgettable way to experience the ranch.
Winter trap shooting is available once daily before lunch. Guests can sign-up in the Outfitter’s Cabin, and this activity carries an added charge of $50.00 per person. A wide variety of age-appropriate firearms are available, including a .22, .410, and 12-gauge shotgun. Ranch personnel are well-trained in gun safety and all guests who participate are required to attend a safety briefing before shooting.
For the safety of our staff and guests, please leave your personal firearms at home. Thank you!
The ranch offers two yoga experiences:
Hike to Yoga
A 90 minute journey that begins with a brief “hike” to our viewpoint where we will do an hour hatha/vinyasa yoga class that is suitable for all levels. Vehicle Transportation can be arranged upon request.
Lazy You Yoga
An hour beginner’s level seated yoga class that mainly consists of basic stretching, breathing exercises, and meditation to reduce back pain and stress. The class is held on Latigo Room deck or in the wine cellar when it rains.
*There may be an additional charge for this activity for groups – Please refer to your group contract for more detail if you are traveling with a group.
