Romance is built right into C Lazy U Ranch. Its towering mountain backdrop, crystal-clear waters, and relatively remote location in Colorado give couples the rare opportunity to get away from it all in one of the most magical places on earth.

When you’re visiting C Lazy U, whether you’re there as a couple or with the whole family, there are certain spots on the ranch that best lend themselves for a stolen kiss under the moonlight.

And there is no better time to sneak away than on the most romantic day of the year: Valentine’s Day.

Woodsie Overlook

There is a good reason that the Woodsie Overlook, a spectacular spot overlooking the Willow Creek Reservoir, is one of our most popular wedding sites. Standing high above the ranch with amazing views, you’ll feel as though you and your loved one are the only ones on earth.

Take a leisurely hike with just the two of you to the Woodsie Overlook for some much-needed alone time – and perhaps bring a picnic and a blanket or two to get extra cozy.

The Spa

The Lazy You Spa isn’t just for a solo soak in the tub or a massage for one: it’s the perfect place for couples to reconnect. In the summer, you’ll lay in a personal open-air cabin along the banks of Willow Creek; in the winter, the spa is relocated to one of our winter spa locations or, if you prefer, your own personal cabin.

While you can both indulge in some solo treatments such as a facial or massage, you can also pamper yourselves together. Enjoy a couple’s massage and soak side by side in our massive copper tubs – complete with champagne and strawberries, of course!

Majestic Pond

The pond at C Lazy U, though close to the pool and tennis courts, is still removed from the hustle and bustle of the ranch. Surrounded by lush green fields and wildflower-filled meadows, Majestic Pond can be a peaceful place at the right time: after dinner, take a walk around its tranquil waters, or start your day early with a cup of coffee right at the water’s edge.

But sometimes fun is what you need to rekindle your relationship: take a spin in a paddleboat in the summer, or race around the ice in the winter on skates.

Out on the Trail

One of the best parts of a dude ranch vacation at C Lazy U is experiencing some of the most beautiful landscape Colorado has to offer – and simply being in the heart of it can get yours pumping. Head out on horseback to take it all in on a leisurely ride, either in the summer or the winter when a hush falls over the ranch.

For some real time out in nature, bundle up and trek the four miles of cross-country ski trails – best yet, guests are free to go it alone, meaning you and your loved one can take some much-needed time for yourselves.

Around the Fire

Nothing is more romantic than cozying up around a roaring fire, snuggled up under a blanket with a warm drink in hand. Just steps from the pool is our grand fire pit, which gives you the opportunity to mingle with other guests under a starry sky – but even more romantic is relaxing in your own room.

Most of C Lazy U’s guest rooms feature massive stone fireplaces and plush, comfortable couches. After a long day of riding, hiking, skiing, fishing or one of the many other ranch activities, you can put on your PJs and have a cozy night in with each other in front of the fire.

At C Lazy U Ranch, love is always in the air – so take advantage of it and put the spark back in your relationship at one of the most romantic places in the world.

After over 100 years as Colorado’s premier guest ranch, C Lazy U Ranch is known for giving guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines the luxury of an all-inclusive resort with the adventure of the American West. But there’s much more to C Lazy U than five-star amenities, world-class horseback riding, gourmet dining, and relaxing spa services.

This is a special place where memories are made, families come together, and bonds are forged. Get to know the ranch better by discovering these five things you didn’t know about C Lazy U.

1. We Have the Freshest Water on Earth

Our entire water supply comes from the crystal-clear natural springs flowing from the hillside above the guest ranch, including our drinking water and the water that fills our pools and spas. In fact, the water from our taps is about as clean and fresh as one can find.

If you really wanted to, you could drink it straight from the source! But we think the complimentary reusable water bottles we give each guest do the trick. It’s important to stay hydrated at high elevation, especially when you’re horseback riding all day. Drinking the freshest water helps make that easy.

2. We’re a Family-Owned Business

From family reunions to large family vacations, our Colorado guest ranch is all about family. In fact, C Lazy U Ranch has always been family-owned! Currently, the Singleton and Baily/Stanford families share ownership of the guest ranch. It’s not unusual for the owners to be on-site personally welcoming you for dinner, taking you on a scenic bike ride, sharing a bottle of wine, or having you over to their house for cocktails.

3. Guests Can’t Wait to Come Back

Once you’ve experienced the magic that is C Lazy U Ranch, you can’t help but come back. On average, 55% of our summer guests rebook for the following year upon checkout. Depending on the week, that number may be as high as 96%!

With the warm sun, wildflowers, and Colorado wildlife on the trail, summertime is one of the most popular times for a horseback riding family vacation. Come summertime, our cabins are coveted, and once you get the cabin you like, you’ll want to keep it!

4. We Have Some Prestigious Awards Under our Belt

In our 100+ year history, our spectacular service has earned us quite a few awards, and we’re proud of every single one. From our award-winning wine to our Orvis-endorsed fly fishing, we’re proud to create unforgettable experiences for every guest.  We’re particularly honored that our ranch is the only resort in Colorado named on Travel + Leisure’s list of the Top 100 Resorts in the World (2018) and is in the top 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts.

5. You Can Buy Property At C Lazy U

Guests who fall in love with C Lazy U Ranch don’t have to go home after their vacation is over. Check in forever by buying one of the 35-acre properties we’re offering on site. You can by land on which to build your dream Colorado vacation home, or you can buy one of the beautiful homes currently available. But you have to act fast; these mountain homes don’t come on the market very often.

Once you purchase your C Lazy U Colorado ranch estate, you’re granted exclusive membership rights that let you take advantage of everything our luxury guest ranch has to offer. Learn more about the benefits of ranch membership and check out our Colorado land for sale or C Lazy U mountain homes for sale.

6.  C Lazy U Is A Working Dude Ranch 

We always go above and beyond for our guests, so why not add an extra fact? As a working dude ranch, C Lazy offers a truly authentic experience. Not only do we care for over 200 horses, 30 cows, and 3 donkeys, but we also produce about 300 tons of hay each year and irrigate our own hayfields and pastures. 

Experience Everything C Lazy U Ranch Has to Offer

Now that you’ve gotten to know us a little better, come on down and see what a Colorado dude ranch vacation is all about! Contact us today to make a reservation.

C Lazy U Ranch’s water comes from natural springs from the hillside at the ranch, making for some of the purest and cleanest water on earth. You can literally drink the water out of the springs, but Colorado state requires that you treat the water for safety regardless of how naturally pure it is. In addition to the two natural springs, there are two backup wells to draw water, which assures C Lazy U’s guests that there will always be an ample water supply.

The legal water rights and the engineering that goes behind developing and creating a large public water system is extremely complex and expensive. There are four sources of water all connected to the main treatment system, featuring sensors every step of the way to gauge each location. When one area is drawn down, a second source automatically kicks in.

Once the water is drawn from the springs above the ranch or pumped up the hill to the main treatment facility, it goes into a series of storage collection points, beginning with raw water storage. It then enters the complex treatment process.

A State-of-the-Art Water Treatment Facility

The treatment facility is state-of-the-art, and the inside looks something like the interior of a submarine. There are pipes, display boards, loud noises, blinking lights and treatment equipment laid out in a very methodical and complex system. The water is constantly monitored and tested for turbidity and then chlorinated for safety. The entire system, a smart water system, has alarms that can be dispatched to the ranch’s state-certified water operator on his cellphone. That same cellphone can make changes remotely and act as a control board.

The ranch has an amazing team of engineers that check levels throughout the day and act as first responders if issues arise. The system has complete redundancy: every step has two or more of everything, so the system never goes down. If we lose power, everything can run on a backup generator.

Once the water is treated, it is stored in a number of storage tanks that release the water on demand and in sequential order to ensure that it is never goes stale and is the highest quality. The ranch can go through as much as 22,000 gallons on a peak demand day; the 32,000 gallons in total storage on the property allow for these variations in demand. There is always a source feeding new water into the system, and it can operate on demand if needed.

Prior to the new treatment facility, the ranch upgraded all the water lines through the property as the old water lines were losing thousands of gallons of water each day. This substantial project was a major improvement, though the guests never saw. The ranch chose to do underground directional boring instead of trenching the areas around all the ranch buildings, a method that costs more but is extremely precise. With underground directional boring, you can run the lines hundreds of feet right to the correct connection point under the cabin without ever disturbing the ground above it.

The treatment facility was completed in late 2017, and the guests will enjoy this upgrade for the next 50-75 years in operation. The combination of the new treatment facility and the miles of underground piping helps the ranch save thousands of gallons of water each day that the old system was losing. The new water is cleaner and safer than ever, and our guests truly enjoy the fresh and crisp taste of the spring water delivered right to their cabin.

There are tons of great activities here on the ranch, but it’s no secret that many of our guests come to C Lazy U to meet our biggest stars: our horses! If you’ve ever watched a daily jingle at the ranch, or have just enjoyed our photos and videos online, you may have wondered about how our horses are cared for, where they come from and what they do for fun.

We sat down with Ami Cullen, our Director of Equestrian Operations, to get some behind the scenes info and fun facts about the daily lives of our herd.

How does the ranch find its horses?

We have several sources that help us purchase horses. We typically receive around a dozen new horses every year, and we are fortunate to have excellent help in finding horses that will excel as guest horses. 

Once they arrive, are the horses trained on the ranch?

We spend time with all our new horses training them to become excellent guest horses. Many of the horses that we purchase have already been a great riding horse for someone else. Once they arrive at C Lazy U, they are put through our ground work program and evaluated under saddle. When they are ready, the horses will be placed with a Wrangler and will begin their training on the trails, where they will trek many miles each summer. Our new horses will encounter many new things, such as moose, elk, grouse and jackrabbits, and they must learn that these animals are just part of the fun of spending their days in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Once a horse has been in the arena and on the trails with Wranglers, and has proven that they are ready for guests, they will join our guest program. All guest horses are frequently evaluated by Wranglers to ensure that they remain safe for our guests. 

What do the horses enjoy most about working with guests?

Our horses love exploring the trails with our guests, and they seem to thoroughly enjoy meeting new people every week. One of their favorite activities that they absolutely love is when the guests groom them after a hard day’s work.

What do guests love about horseback riding at the ranch?

Horseback riding is a great way to see the beautiful scenery C Lazy U Ranch has to offer. You will enjoy the stillness of nature and marvel at the wildflowers, aspen trees and fields of sage. Since horses are pretty quiet movers that often sound like other wildlife moving through the woods, there is always a chance to see wildlife, such as moose, antelope, deer and elk. You will also fall in love with your horse and begin to understand just how wonderful horses truly are and, if you are lucky, you may even learn something about yourself that you never knew from your horse.

Who is in charge of the horses on the ranch?

The C Lazy U herd is loved and cared for by all the Wranglers on the ranch. I (Ami Cullen) am the Director of Equestrian Operations and oversee our herd, our guest riding program, our member riding program and our children’s program. Tami Burkett is the herd health and veterinarian care manager and is responsible for ensuring that all our horses are fat, happy, healthy, and ready for guests. Garrett is our barn maintenance manager, and ensures that the horses are fed daily and have well-maintained facilities to enjoy. We couldn’t be a successful operation without the love and care that everyone puts into our horses.

How many horses live on the ranch?

C Lazy U Ranch currently has around 200 horses. This includes our miniature donkeys, Petey and Tilly, our amazing kid’s pony, Katie, our Belgian Draft Team, Fred and Big Mike, and our new Halflinger team, Sam and Tom. 

Which horse has been on the ranch the longest?

Shoshoni has been at the ranch since 1994. He is one of our incredible kid’s horses that came from Wyoming many years ago. Shoshoni has a best friend named Dixi. Shoshoni is approximately 28 years old, and Dixi is around 27 years old. They are commonly referred to as Grandpa and Grandma by the Wranglers and are seldom apart (unless Shoshoni is getting a good scratch in on one of our fence posts)!

Who are the most recent arrivals?

Our newest additions are Lucy and Linus. They were donated to the ranch by a very kind man that wanted them to find a home together since he could no longer care for them himself, but still loved them very much. Lucy and Linus are both 6-year-old quarter horses. Linus is a handsome buckskin gelding with big ears and Lucy is a beautiful liver chestnut mare. These horses came to us this past winter and will begin their training to become guest horses soon.

Where do the horses live and sleep on the ranch?

We have 10 pastures that we rotate our horses on every summer, where they graze on luscious grass and rest at night. In the winter, our horses live in our west meadow where they are protected from the winter elements by the hillside and willows. 

What do the horses do for fun?

The horses run to and from pasture every day in the summer. This is a highlight for both our guests and horses! In the winter our horses may stay out to pasture for a couple days at a time. Our horses love to play with one another in the field and the corrals. You will also find many of our horses sunbathing in the warm Colorado sun.

What’s one of the best stories about the C Lazy U horses?

Every horse at C Lazy U has a personality all their own. We have several serious relationships in our herd. In fact, we held a wedding a few years back for Bam Bam and Roxy, who are madly in love. Every time Bam Bam and Roxy come back from a ride they immediately start calling for one another, which always makes everyone smile.

What happens to CLU’s horses after they leave the ranch?

Horses leave the ranch for retirement or to pursue second careers when they can no longer work in the mountain terrain, or would be better suited for just one person. Many of our former horses have found their second home with families with small children, where they are loved just as much as they were when they were here. 

C Lazy U Ranch strongly believes that all our horses deserve a fantastic retirement or second career when their time at C Lazy U comes to an end. In our quest to ensure this, we have teamed with a phenomenal horse rescue, Drifters Hearts of Hope (http://www.driftersheartsofhope.org/), and helped create the Annie Project. The Annie Project (http://www.driftersheartsofhope.org/the-annie-project.html), named after one of our beloved horses, Annie, ensures that retired dude ranch horses stay out of the slaughter pipeline.

2014 is C Lazy U’s 95th birthday, and next week is Independence Day, so we’re celebrating! Book a stay from June 29-July 6, 2014, and on top of a fun throw-back Fourth of July experience, you’ll also receive a one-of-a-kind, silver C Lazy U commemorative belt buckle!

Join us next week and you’ll experience a slice of the early 20th century when C Lazy U was first founded. In 1919, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, prohibiting the sale and manufacture of alcohol. As a result, moonshine production skyrocketed! To celebrate, we’ll have a prohibition-style moonshine tasting. And while the Model T accounted for 75 percent of the nation’s cars, most Americans who lived in ranch country still used horses to get around during this time. At C Lazy U, you can take a trip back in time, and not only view C Lazy U’s very own “Tin Lizzie,” a beautifully restored 1919 Model T, but also saddle up on one of the Ranch’s more than 180 horses, and feel the wind in your hair as you gallop across C Lazy U’s 8,500 acres of land.

We’ll also offer good old fashioned fun in the form of fireworks, a talent show, kids’ carnival, parade, trick horseback riding performances, a whisky tasting and much more.

Call now to reserve your cabin while there are still a few left!

C Lazy U dude ranch is known for family-friendly fun, all year long. To make your family vacation even more special, try out our C Lazy U Dude Ranch Bingo board. You’ll get to know the ranch better, make fun memories, and give the kids something to do during downtime. How many can you cross off?

Download the PDF version for your next trip to C Lazy U! We can’t wait to see you and help you cross off these bingo cards!

Have you spotted the winning photo from the 2013 C Lazy U Instagram contest hanging above the fireplace at C Lazy U’s Outfitter’s Cabin? Ranch regular John Kim and family won last year’s competition with the heart-warming snapshot of father and son fishing at C Lazy U Ranch. The Kim family won a two night stay at the Ranch as well as a printed canvas copy of their winning photo.

With spring quickly approaching, our 2014 C Lazy U Ranch Instagram contest is starting to ramp up, and we want you and your family to join in on the fun! Simply follow us on Instagram (@CLazyURanch), and share your #myclazyuvacation photo, and tag @CLazyURanch, for a chance to win a two night stay and a canvas print of your shot. The winning photo will also be displayed at the Ranch! Contest runs through October 31, 2014.

The lucky winner’s two night stay at C Lazy U will be valid November 1, 2014- April 15, 2015. Black out dates include Christmas, New Years and President’s Day weekends. Winner’s prize is non-transferable.

We will be picking photos to spotlight weekly, so be sure to check our Facebook page regularly to see if your photo is chosen to cash in on some bragging rights!

When nine-year-old Grace and Zoey left C Lazy U after a weeklong adventure at the ranch with their parents during the busy winter season, they were, like many of our young guests, very sad to say goodbye — and not just to our horses, but to the action-packed activities that they took part in, such as snow tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating. These girls made the most of their time at C Lazy U Ranch!

We were also sad to say goodbye to such fun-loving, hardworking girls, so we were delighted to hear back from the family just a few days later.

“We got together with the other family (our traveling partners) for dinner last week and the girls, Grace and Zoey, disappeared upstairs after dinner,” Jude Olinger, Grace’s father, wrote to the ranch. “They came back down sometime later and with great fanfare presented us with a C Lazy U Ranch book that they had made.”

Mr. Olinger generously shared the storybook with us, and we were so impressed with Grace and Zoey’s work that we’d like to show it off to everyone.

At C Lazy U Ranch, we’re always looking to make sure our guests have the dude ranch vacation of a lifetime — and we’re thrilled that we were able to give that to Grace and Zoey. We would like to thank them for creating such a wonderful book and sharing their experience.

We hope to see them back at C Lazy U Ranch soon. In fact, the girls have asked how old they must be to work here at the ranch, so we expect them back as ranch hands in just a couple years!

On October 21st and 22nd, 2020, the East Troublesome Fire made its way through C Lazy U Ranch’s property, destroying 4 buildings and impacting some of the ranch’s stunning 8,500 acres of land. Through the brave efforts of firefighters, first responders, and the community, we moved all our animals out of harm’s way and saved the ranch’s most critical infrastructure from damage.  Since the fire, our C Lazy U team and community have been hard at work assessing damage, making repairs, upgrading facilities and preparing to open our doors once again. From our construction and housekeeping teams who improved our public areas and guest lodging, to our wranglers who adapted under unusual circumstances to our Food & Beverage team who kept everyone fed, it’s been a true, all-hands-on-deck effort that highlights the resilient spirit of C Lazy U.

As we count down the days to our grand re-opening on April 1, 2021, we’re giving you a sneak peek at what we’ve been working on and what you can expect when you visit us for your upcoming luxury guest ranch vacation.

Rebuilding the Barn

The ranch’s iconic barn was lost in the fire and rebuilding it is a main focus for the C Lazy U team. The original barn stood for over 99 years, and to signify the next 100 years of adventure and excitement at the ranch, the rebuilding project has been termed “Vision 2121.”

Until the new barn is complete, we’ve secured a temporary barn for saddle and tack storage, which will allow us to continue to offer outstanding equestrian activities throughout your stay. Want to know the latest Vision 2121 news? Be sure to check out our Raise The Barn page for more details and updates.      

Updated Guest Rooms

At C Lazy U Ranch, we use adverse opportunities such as these to upgrade and enhance the property. While we were completing renovations, we updated all of our guest rooms. Every room was furnished with fresh paint, brand-new mattresses, linens and window treatments.

Fresh Touches to Community Areas

In addition, several community areas have also been updated. Most notably, we’ve reconfigured the Outfitter’s Cabin in the Patio House.  Guests will be welcomed by a new custom reclaimed timber front desk that also serves as the concierge desk.  This change will allow us to provide an even better guest experience on ranch and streamline the check-in and check-out process. We’ve also transformed the entire Patio House with an interior renovation to provide an improved guest lounge, meeting space, and overflow dining. 

In the Main Lodge the Card Room has been converted into a cozy lounge complete with cocktail tables to give guests even more room to relax and unwind.  The Latigo Banquet/Meeting room received a new hardwood floor and the attached Adega wine room, a fabulous new cork floor.

The new Activities Yurt by the pond will be open this spring to provide an improved guest interaction when participating in non-horse related experiences.

Upgraded Staff Housing & Offices

Our staff is the lifeblood of C Lazy U, and we’ve used this time to update our staff quarters. All on-ranch staff housing has been repainted and fitted with new linens, mattresses, flooring and bathroom upgrades. We also updated the administrative and management offices in the Main Lodge and Patio House. 

Clean & Safe Trails

C Lazy U offers guests limitless trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. After the fire, keeping our trails safe remains our main concern, and our year-round trail crew jumped into action.

The team identified and cleared any damaged trees that were in danger of falling. They also implemented numerous efforts to stabilize the land and offset erosion across the property. Throughout 2021 and 2022, the team will continue to update fencing and trail systems.

Community Days

On behalf of the entire C Lazy U team, we’d like to thank the community, first responders, firefighters, and our year-round staff for their commitment and dedication to keeping the ranch safe and their continued efforts to rebuild the ranch. We’re overwhelmed by the outpouring of support, and many members of the community are eager to lend a hand while we continue to update and rebuild. We’re working on developing a Volunteer Day program to allow you to sign up and volunteer on the ranch and we’ll share those plans soon.

In the meantime, join us in our countdown to April 1st, 2021 by staying up to date on our FaceBook and Instagram channels. And, if you’re planning on booking a 2021 stay at the ranch, don’t wait! Spaces are filling up! We look forward to welcoming you back home to C Lazy U. 

See you very soon!

Wild animals are our neighbors here at C Lazy U Guest Ranch. On a visit to the ranch, you’re likely to spot some of the Rocky Mountains’ most iconic creatures, big and small.

Right at the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, we share the same wealth of wildlife that makes RMNP one of the most visited and treasured parks in the United States. The park is home to an astounding 66 species of mammals and 260 kinds of birds.

The best way to see wildlife while visiting C Lazy U is to get out into our big backyard. We’ve got more than 8,500 acres of land to explore on horseback, foot, bike, ski, or snowshoe. Our land makes a perfect natural habitat for all the creatures that live in the region. Sometimes these furry friends of ours will come right up to the ranch grounds – foxes in particular like to poke around close by.

Here are a few of our favorite species to spot in the fields and forests just beyond our doorstep. Have your camera and binoculars ready – you never know when they’ll make an appearance.

Please remember to never approach the wildlife. These are wild animals and while you’re welcome to observe them, you should never try to touch, feed, or get too close to them.

Moose

Spotting a great antlered bull moose will stop most visitors in their tracks. You can’t help but marvel at their sheer size – they stand over 6 feet tall, making them the largest members of the deer family! Majestic and cartoonish at the same time, they’re known to stop and stare right back at their human admirers. Moose can be dangerous, though, so never approach one, especially a mother moose with her calf.

How likely is it to spot a moose during your stay at C Lazy U? Well, let’s just say there’s no shortage of them in the area. Rocky Mountain National Park estimates that there are around 700 moose in the park area itself – mostly on the west side near Grand Lake, right in our neck of the woods. Fall visitors in September to November may be lucky enough to hear the moose’s mating call.

Seeing a moose is certainly unmistakable. Male (bull) moose have large antlers that are furry and slightly knobby. Their antlers alone can weigh up to 77 pounds with a span of 5 feet.

Elk

Sometimes people confuse elk for huge deer, but these impressive, majestic creatures are a species all their own. Elk are common throughout Colorado, and being right next to Rocky Mountain National Park makes C Lazy U’s property a prime location to spot elk, especially particularly large, mature ones. Rocky Mountain elk have the largest antlers of any elk, making them even more impressive.

Like moose, a bull (male) elk can weight up to 700 pounds. The antlers on a mature bull can weigh as much as 40 pounds and can grew as fast as one inch each day during the summer! Keep your eyes peeled for a sighting you’ll never forget! 

Fox

There’s something simply enchanting about seeing a red fox in the wintertime against the white snow of the ranch. Maybe it’s their quizzical expressions as they size us humans up, or their black-stocking legs, or their plush tails. The trick is to capture it on camera – foxes are shy and skittish.

Luckily, C Lazy U has a few foxes who like to roam around the ranch and don’t seem to mind posing for pictures. They sometimes even come right up to the buildings!

Coyotes

From a distance or at night, some confuse foxes for their canidae family relatives – coyotes. Wild sanctuaries like Rocky Mountain National Park and its surroundings are natural romping grounds for coyotes. They’re more gray and wolf-like than foxes, and if you hear something howling in the night, you can bet it’s a coyote. We admire coyotes for their clever wits and their strong family bonds – something C Lazy U is all about!

Antelope & Deer

There’s a reason there’s a line in the song Home on the Range that says “Where the deer and the antelope play” – we have both here on the front range of Colorado!

When riding through C Lazy U’s lands, it’s not unusual to spot a deer. Mule deer are a staple of the West, and that’s what you’ll find on our ranch. They’re named Mule deer because of their “mule like” ears, which can get pretty big – about 75% of the size of their heads! Sometimes you’ll even find these guys checking out what’s going on around the cabins.

While deer are fairly common in multiple parts of the U.S., it’s not every day that you get to see a wild antelope. While visit C Lazy U Keep an eye out for pronghorn antelope – if you blink, you might miss them. Antelope are famous for their incredible speed, with the power to reach up to 55 miles per hour! These long-horned beauties are far more difficult to spot than elk and deer, making their appearances on ranch property that much more special.

Next time you’re at C Lazy U, be sure to keep an eye out for the abundance of wildlife – you’re never sure what you might see!

Colorado is beautiful in any season, but fall is one of the most colorful. The beautiful Rocky Mountains, spotted with fiery red-orange aspens, draw in hundreds of Colorado natives and tourists alike every year. At C Lazy U dude ranch, you’ll get a front row ticket to the riot of color that comes with a Colorado fall. With crisp air, crunchy leaves, and autumn activities, you’ll wish the season never had to end. 

Take a Fall Hike  

With 8,500 acres of trail, there’s no shortage of fall hiking at C Lazy U. If you’re on the hunt for the most scenic views at the ranch, sign up for a guided hike. Our ranch hands will accompany you through the property on some of the best trails and take you to the most picturesque locations.  With trails to accommodate every skill level, you can enjoy fall’s beauty at your own speed.  

Try Horseback Riding 

If you want to see even more of Colorado’s gorgeous colors, sign up for horseback riding! Trail riding is a great way to loop around the ranch and soak up the ranch’s beauty while learning a new skill. Regular trail rides are scheduled daily, so you can keep coming back for more.   

Do Some Fly Fishing 

October and November are the best time for catching big brown trout on the Colorado River.  Fall fly fishing lets you enjoy the colors, cooler temperatures, and big fish without the hubbub of the summer season.  

Bike Through the Mountains  

Speed through the golden forest with complimentary bikes and gear. If you’ve never biked before or need a refresher, sign up for a guided tour with our mountain biking guides.  They’ll help you get up to speed or perfect your mountain biking technique while taking you through breathtaking fall scenery.    

Take a Drive

The Rocky Mountain National Park, just 30 minutes from C Lazy U ranch, is listed as one of the best places to see Colorado’s fall colors. Take a half-day or full-day trip on Trail Ridge Road, which is famous for its beautiful alpine scenery.  If you’re lucky enough to visit between mid-September and mid-October, you might just catch the fall elk rut, when tens of hundreds of elks gather in one spot. 

No matter how you choose to take in the sights, the ranch will be there to welcome you at the end of each day with a gourmet meal, a curated wine list, games, and music. Then, wake up the next day, choose another activity, and do it all over again!  

We’re often asked “what, exactly, is a dude ranch?” We’ve explained what they are and how they came about way back when in the early 1900s. Now we’re ready to clear up some notions (both true and false) that some folks may have about dude ranch vacations. Here are a few myths about spending time on a dude ranch, and the facts to set you straight. The more you know about dude ranch vacations, the less you’ll come across as a city-slicking “dude” once you get here!

1. Myth: Dude ranches are all about cattle and horseback riding
Historically, yes. The main activity at traditional ranches is wrangling the cattle, which is best done on horseback by pro cowboys. Horseback riding is still at the heart of the ranch experience, and C Lazy U is no exception. Our herd of 180 horses and our staff of expert riders make for experiences for any cowboy-for-a-day (or week!).

1. Fact: There’s LOTS else to do at C Lazy U!
While horseback riding is a big part of the daily life and culture of the ranch, it’s not a requisite. For those who would rather spend their vacation time on other outdoor mountain activities (or just lazing by the side of a pool, for that matter), C Lazy U has plenty of options, every season of the year.

2. Myth: Any old ranch can call themselves a “dude ranch”
Back when ranches were opening their doors to tourists in the early 20th century, any ranch could hang a shingle on its front gate and call themselves a lodge as well as a ranch. Even today, you’ll find ranches with minimal services inviting visitors in as a “dude ranch.”

2. Fact: The Dude Ranchers’ Association sets the bar high
As dude ranches began to take off in popularity, the budding industry realized it had to get organized and set some standards for itself. In 1926, the Dude Rancher’s Association was born, in partnership with the Northern Pacific Railway. Since then, the association has worked to ensure high quality in the dude ranch experience. C Lazy U, established in 1919, is a long-time member of the Dude Ranchers’ Association.

3. Myth: Dude ranches are only open in the summertime
True, summer is high season for dude ranches across the American West – this is the most popular time of year to go. The timing is right to bring the kids while they’re on vacation from school, and the weather is perfect for horseback riding, campfires, and having fun in the sun.

3. Fact: C Lazy U is open year-round
The ranch takes on a different personality in the fall, winter, and spring months – but is still very much alive! In fact, some prefer the winter months, when the place is a little more serene and covered in a dazzling blanket of white. Horseback riding in the snow brings fairy tales to life. Fall foliage, winter holidays, and spring skiing are all great excuses to visit the ranch any time of the year.

4. Myth: Dude ranch vacations are only for families with kids
Ranches like C Lazy U are generally homegrown, family-run operations that cater especially to families with kids. The lodging, food, and special activities are all designed for youngsters. C Lazy U even has special programming for kids where parents can leave them in our hands for the day.

4. Fact: C Lazy U has something for everyone
As kid-friendly as the ranch may be, it certainly has something to offer all kinds of groups, even of the grown-up variety. Especially from September to May – when the little sprouts are back in school – couples can plan a wedding or just a romantic getaway to C Lazy U, sans children. Organizations can plan conferences and retreats.

5. Myth: Dude ranches are rustic
Ditch the suits and heels – dress code here is strictly casual. Keep in mind that your threads are likely to get a little dusty!

5. Fact: C Lazy U equals superior service and luxury
We may be a cowboy ranch in the mountains, but we know a thing or two about creature comforts. Dining here has a gourmet touch, cabins have amenities like their own cozy fireplaces, and there’s a spa on-site to make things extra fancy. No need to “rough it” at C Lazy U – we even add frills to camping with our special “glamping” setup.

One of our members had his corporate retreat at the ranch this week (which was a great idea since we are the best dude ranch vacation I know of) and I’ve got to say, though I’m just a donkey and know very little on this matter: those men sure did know how to do it up right! Yes, they sat through a few meetings, and got a lot of business accomplished, but they also hit up the ropes course, had a pick-up football game, and partied at the lodge bar well into the evenings, laughin’ and hootin’ and hollerin’ all the way through. I can’t help but think what a great place the ranch is, not only as a Colorado family vacation, but also as a corporate retreat location.

And the weather couldn’t be better! The Aspen leaves are in full color change, so the hillsides look like they are covered in liquid gold; the temperatures — in the mid-70’s I’ll have you know (donkeys have a good sense of this) — is complimented by a nice breeze, and there’s just something in the air this time of year. Everybody always talks about love being in the air, and maybe it is for some — in my case, I haven’t experienced it, as it isn’t good for a leader to get involved in such frivolous matters, though my love of food is unrivaled, but that’s neither here nor there.

What my point is, is this: Fall is in the air here at the ranch — there is a serene calm in the air about the ranch, amplified by the gentle rustling of those Aspen leaves in the breeze. A donkey can’t help but be relaxed here and think about the upcoming holiday season that we have in store for our guests- Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday, as it is, after all, the eating holiday) is going to be huge this year, as always, and I’m looking forward to watching the first tubers of the season make their way down our perfect tubing hill!

I was so relaxed, this week, in fact, that I allowed myself to be talked into a photo shoot, with one of our wranglers- Rebecca Heaton, who’s responsible the images in this post… I think she really captured my good side (though I don’t think I really have a bad one).

The only thing that I can think of that rivals our summers at the ranch are our winter family vacations, and as you can tell by my photo shoot, this donkey is ready!

The ranch reopened on April 1, 2021. For FAQs and updates regarding the situation, please visit this page.

Update October 24, 3:00 PM:

C Lazy U Ranch is currently closed and inaccessible due to the East Troublesome Fire and related evacuation. As of Friday, October 23, we understand portions of the Ranch have been impacted, including the loss of some member homes and a small number of ranch buildings. This continues to be an evolving situation, and we will provide more information as we have it, but are most grateful for the safe, preemptive evacuation of all guests, members, staff and ranch animals.

Our hearts are heavy at this moment, but we will rebuild. Our thoughts are with our neighbors impacted; our deepest gratitude goes out to the Grand County community, firefighters, first responders and authorities who have worked diligently to keep our community safe.

In the spirit of the West, C Lazy U Ranch – now 101 years old – looks forward to welcoming back guests for the next 100 years!

Update October 22, 8:15 AM:

The East Troublesome fire crossed Colorado Highway 125 on Wednesday, Oct.  21, and we believe C Lazy U Ranch was impacted.  We’re still assessing damage to the property and will provide more information as we have it. We’re grateful to report that the ranch preemptively and safely evacuated all guests, members, staff, and ranch animals last week as a precaution. 

Our deepest gratitude goes out to the Grand County community, firefighters, first responders, and authorities who are working diligently to keep the Ranch and the surrounding community safe.       

Check back here and on our social media channels for more updates as we continue to monitor the situation. 

Editor’s Note: The post below was from fires a few years ago. However since people have found it during the East Troubleshome Fire in 2020, we are now updating it with new information about the East Troublesome fire.

Thank you so much to all those of you that have called and emailed with your concerns for the ranch in regards to the many wildfires burning throughout Colorado. I am happy to report that the C Lazy U Ranch is no immediate danger (we are about 100 miles from the nearest fire), and with the exception of a few hours yesterday, we have not breathed a single bit of smoke either (which is great, because I’m a bit of an asthmatic, and I don’t think I’d be able to perform all my duties in smokey conditions!); in fact, we got rain yesterday, and the day before (we will, of course, need tons more, but we count each blessing as it comes)!

On the note of counting our blessings, we are about to dive into our 4th week of summer guests, and it’s been so nice to see so many familiar faces, and so many new ones (I have to say, the new guests we’ve gotten this year are very trainable- the amount of between meals snacks that I’ve been getting is awesome!!). We are truly fortunate to have such a wonderful extended family here, and yes, you are truly fortunate to have me… you’re welcome.

It’s about lunch time, so I’ll leave you all with this: We continue to pray for those who are being effected throughout the state, and the country, and send our hugs:

and kisses:

I will continue to update you here, and don’t forget to check out our Facebook page too.

Glamping, known as glamorous or upscale camping, combines the breathtaking scenery of camping with modern luxury. At C Lazy U Ranch, you can experience the unforgettable beauty of the Great American West in style with an overnight campout at the Ranch’s Outpost.  

Glamping at the Ranch is a great option for couples, families, and groups of friends alike.  During your stay at C Lazy U, you’ll escape for an overnight excursion in our famous Conestoga Wagon for a night under the stars – no tent setup or fire building required! The one-of-a-kind covered wagon exterior will make you think back to an older time, while the spacious interior, furnished with a king bed, a twin-size bunk bed, and a table for two offers all the comfort of modernity. 

On the night of your excursion, a ranch hand will guide you to the secluded Outpost. Once you arrive at the Conestoga Wagon, all the fun of the great outdoors (and a s’mores kit!) will be ready and waiting for you. Share stories with the kids around the fire as you build toasty s’mores, create some life-long memories with your closest friends, or enjoy a private moment with that special someone. Once you’ve enjoyed the starry skies, nighttime wildlife, and the warmth of the fire, retreat to the comfort of the wagon. Snuggle up in comfy beds made with luxuriously soft linens, propane heat, and electric lighting. You’ll feel as if you’re in a world of your own – but as a precaution, we’ll equip you with a ranger ATV and a radio.  

The Conestoga Wagon is only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but it’s never too early to book your reservation. As one of the top destinations recognized in HoneyTrek’s book, Comfortably Wild: The Best Glamping Destinations in North America, your time glamping at C Lazy U is sure to be unforgettable.  A night in the Conestoga Wagon is perfect for whatever the occasion, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a unique excursion with the whole family.  Paired with the ranch’s other adventures, like horseback riding, fly fishing, and our luxurious spa, glamping at C Lazy U will perfectly compliment your next Colorado ranch vacation.  

During the Find Your Inner Cowgirl Retreat Through Body, Mind, Equine 2017, the ladies experienced so many incredible moments. I hope they will inspire you to join us from May 10–13, 2018 at C Lazy U Ranch to discover your inner cowgirl!

This unique 3-night women’s retreat leads participants on a journey of awareness, growth, fun and adventure through daily yoga and meditation sessions as well as arena and trail time with horses.

Powerful, Moving Moments

Many ladies came to the retreat for fun, adventure or rest, unaware that they’d also have a breakthrough with some of their personal challenges. I saw women move through difficult situations with grace and power by working with horses and with the support of other women. They built confidence, gained empowerment, sharpened leadership skills and worked through fears and personal issues.

Every woman was inspired and inspiring in some way. We experienced laughter, happy tears, nurturing, support and understanding. When women come together — unguarded, open and authentic — it is an unparalleled experience. The time spent in nature is life-changing in and of itself, and if you compound that with the incredibly cozy environment of C Lazy U Ranch, you can go home a new woman.

Sweet, Sacred Mornings

During the retreat, early mornings were a rich and sacred time. Morning fireside meditation against a background of pastured horses was deep and still, setting the tone for the day. While the meditation prepared our minds, the yoga postures, which included stretches for riders, prepared our bodies. From there, we took our centered, relaxed energy into the arena with the horses — and it was clear the horses felt it, too. This is a practice that we can take out into the world: be aware of the energy we bring to others and life in general.

Trail Rides and the Daily Jingle

Our rides ranged from peaceful and serene to fun and adventurous. The guide even commented that she’d never ridden with such a mellow, centered group — even the horses were at ease. One of our rides, our “Zen ride,” was very quiet and calm, though we didn’t plan it that way; it was just the natural quality the ride took after a day of yoga and relating to each other and the horses. We were all happy to just walk, taking in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the sounds of the river and clip-clop of hooves. The second day was more of an adventure, with a quicker pace, uphill climbs and a picnic lunch on the trail.

Watching the daily “jingle” was a high point, as watching 200 horses trot from pasture to barn is a powerful experience. Horses can be amazing mirrors, allowing us to look deep inside ourselves.

Dishing Over Dinnertime

All of the meals at C Lazy U were superb, but dinnertime was special for the group. Over good food and drinks, we spoke of the key points we learned during the day. We got to know each other more intimately by sharing stories about our personal lives, and our camaraderie grew.

The Ladies and Their Transformations

A dynamic mixture of women convened: mothers and daughters, girlfriends, solo retreat goers, corporate women, stay-at home moms, yoga teachers, and retirees. Their level of horse and yoga experience ranged from beginner to experienced. It was a great combination: they were all there to retreat from their daily lives and work on new life skills.

Seeing the guests’ transformations from when they arrive to when they leave is truly a highlight. Time away in a new setting, being in nature, and unplugging have transformative and lasting effects. They return home in a much better place — physically, mentally and emotionally rested.

What the Women Say

Below are a few comments from ladies who have attended a Body, Mind, Equine program.

“The experience at the ranch and with [the] Cathy Woods Yoga program was absolutely a delight all the way around! The ranch was exquisite in its accommodations and Cathy’s program was just right! It wasn’t too hard for those new to yoga and was rich for those who are intimate with it. I would highly recommend both the Ranch and Cathy Woods Yoga program and hope to return!” —V. Vessey

“Body, Mind, Equine was a truly enjoyable and enlightening experience. Bridging the concepts of yoga with the wisdom and spirituality of the horse enables self-discovery and awareness. You don’t have to be an expert at either discipline to be able to take away new concepts and core benefits from this program.” —Mary Connaughty-Sullivan, trail and dressage rider

“Cathy Woods horse/yoga…is, rather than a riding lesson, a communications lesson with your body and mind to your horse’s body and mind.” —Cindy Hughes, dressage rider and owner and artist of Horse Lady Gifts

“I attended Cathy’s retreat at C Lazy U in May 2017 as a part-time yoga practitioner and hardly-ever rider. The retreat was fun, invigorating and uplifting. Cathy’s teaching style is relaxed and supportive and C Lazy U is a beautiful ranch. A truly delightful experience!” —Tracy Arthur

In my 28 years of leading programs I am always amazed that somehow, just the right group and dynamics come together — I call it “the magic of retreat.” I encourage women to gift themselves with this retreat to see what unfolds. To get a better idea of what to expect from this adventure, view photos from the 2017

Find Your Inner Cowgirl retreat — perhaps they will inspire you to join us at C Lazy U in May. Together, we can harness your Inner Cowgirl Spirit! For more info, visit the C Lazy U website.

This post was written by Cathy Woods, Retreat Leader. Opinions expressed in this article are those of the guest author and not necessarily of C Lazy U ranch’s.

From my personal journal last night:

The smell of barbecue fills the air as the first Patio House cookout of the year gets underway (smoked wild bore leg I’ve been told… *gulp* they don’t eat donkeys too, do they?!); compounded with the sunny days and warm temperatures we’ve had these last few days, and the new pasture the wranglers are jingling to, grass lush and green, ripe for the eating, it is difficult not to feel giddy about summer-a few short weeks and our first round of Summer guests will be making their way down our mile long driveway to be greeted by a ranch hand; it’s a wonderful tradition really: as they are escorted into the Outfitter’s Cabin, the sound of good ol’ country music playing melodically in the background, setting the atmosphere for their stay, faces light up at the site of friends from years past, stories are recounted as old friends catch up, and astonished looks spread across the faces of new guests who never knew that something could be so breathtaking as this.

Having lived here as long as I have, I’ve seen a lot of hugs and handshakes as old and new families are greeted during this Sunday afternoon ritual here at C Lazy U, but my heart still swells each time I see it- this place, the C Lazy U Ranch, is my home- with so many friends living here with me all year, I can truly say that I am surrounded by family- and yet, I’m still never as full as when our guest arrive for the season- that is when my family is complete.

As twilight falls around my friends and I, I realize that I’ve neglected my dinner, and so I end tonight with this- friends, old and new, I can’t wait to see you- your C Lazy U family awaits you, but, right now, my grass awaits me!

We recently asked our fans on Facebook to share their favorite memory of the ranch. You all did not disappoint! Thanks for sharing your memories and making us smile, laugh, and reminisce on great times with you. We learned you love the oasis of fun and relaxation that a vacation at the ranch provides. Also, apparently love is in the air at the ranch as love stories was one of the most common memory shared!

Please read on for quotes from some of our favorite memories shared. Make sure to check back to the blog this summer, as we will to continue to feature some of these stories and memories with you – our extended family at the ranch!

Don’t forget to book your next Colorado family vacation to C Lazy U soon to start creating more memories that will last a lifetime.

P.S. We miss you too!!

What is Your Favorite Memory at C Lazy U?

“When I was a wrangler and met my future wife a guest at the time, among many other great memories.”
-Steve S.

“Arriving, relaxing at the patio house and having tears to my eyes thinking “I can’t believe we are here!”. Such a blessing!”
-Tammy J.

“The view, the staff, my kids seeing the moose up close, feeding the horses, we loved everything about the ranch , can’t wait to go back! !!!” ♡
– Jenni C.

“Helping out on a morning wrangle, sun wasn’t up yet and the moon was still out, with Tom the wrangler singing “Midnight Rider”.”
-Elizabeth S.

“Being able to exhale, NOT being given a room key because “cabins don’t have locks” and watching my son ride in the showdeo!”
-Terri F.

“Meeting and becoming friends with my husband when we worked at the ranch in the 80’s”
– Jennifer D-L.

“The staff and feeling healthy.”
-Kathy N-C.

“On one ride my horse had a miss step, and I was able to walk him back to the ranch and then I was able to take off his saddle and rub him down. Just as he was my own! I was able to bond with him and he had some relax time. That with the sheer beauty of the land and the ranch. I was 18 and the first time alone on a vacation,at first lone some for home by the end I did not want to come home.”
– Roberta L-H.

“Meeting my husband! #bestsummerever”
– Britney J-G.

“Dawn Cone(sp?) singing El Paso inside the lodge…”
– David G.

“Learning how to dance with the Jacobs boys. Kevin, Trip, Max, Clay. And the endless possibilities in the kitchen. And mountain drives. There’s too many memories. Oh man, and the dances in the old barn out back. Epic.”
-Yuliya A.

“Playing kick the can in front of the barn. “Olly olly oxen freeeeeee!!!””
– Adam N.

“if the 1/2 mile driveway down the ranch road could speak it would have a lifetime of stories! When you turn down that driveway IT is like walking into the wardrobe of the Lion witch and wardrobe! Into a land of happiness! I can write a book on all the great memories! Yellow brick road! Dawns point keyhole! Just a small taste of happiness! All these years later the beauty never changes! We all live in a fast paced world! But look for peace and complacency! That is what c lazy u offers guest or employee! Best job ever! I miss big Bertha! Love!”
– Andy R.

Whether you’re looking for a unique Valentine’s Day getaway, a romantic weekend trip, or the perfect honeymoon destination, C Lazy U Ranch is the perfect backdrop for you to celebrate your love. Set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this luxurious, all-inclusive Colorado dude ranch gives you the opportunity to take in spectacular views, experience unforgettable adventures, and enjoy quality time as a couple.

Read on to learn how to make your visit to C Lazy U your most romantic trip yet. 

Glamping 

Glamping at the ranch is a romantic highlight for many couples who visit during the summertime. Glamping, or “glamorous camping,” gives you the opportunity to escape to our famous Conestoga Wagon, where you’ll enjoy a roaring fire, a s’mores kit, and the endless starry sky.

When you’ve enjoyed the Colorado wilderness in style, retreat to the comfort of the wagon to enjoy a spacious interior featuring a king-size bed, a table for two, and modern amenities. Featured in HoneyTrek’s book, Comfortably Wild: The Best Glamping Destinations in North America, glamping at C Lazy U dude Ranch is a romantic experience you and your loved one won’t want to miss. 

Spa Day 

A spa day enhances every romantic vacation, and The Lazy U Spa delivers the perfect blend of relaxation, comfort, and elegance.  As one of Colorado’s most unique spas, The Lazy U Spa is comprised of 6 luxurious tents that overlook the Willow Creek. We offer traditional treatments like facials, manicures, and pedicures, but we also provide exclusive services you won’t see anywhere else.

Enjoy a couples massage in a tent suspended over the river, and watch the water rush by under the glass floor throughout your treatment. Or, indulge in our signature “Cowboy Soak,” where  you and your loved one can relish a moonlight soak in therapeutic copper tubs and take in the scenic Continental Divide Mountain Range. Complete with champagne and strawberries, a visit to our spa is sure to be one for the books! 

Horseback Riding 

Our world-class horseback riding program gives your honeymoon or romantic getaway the perfect touch of adventure. Our experienced Director of Equine Operations and wrangler team will pair you with your perfect (equestrian) match.

Attend a “double date” with the horses on daily trail rides, or bond with your partner through horsemanship clinics and classes. At C Lazy U Ranch, riding is a part of our life year-round, so enjoy spring, summer, fall, and winter horseback rides! 

Hiking and Snowshoeing 

For a romantic summer vacation activity, explore the 8,500 acres of ranch together. For an extra touch of romance, grab a bottle of wine, two glasses, and hike up to Woodsie, where you’ll find an unobstructed view of the Willow Creek Reservoir and Indian Peaks Mountain range. If you’re honeymooning or visiting the ranch in winter, pick up a bottle of champagne and some snowshoes and hike out to our private warming hut for a cozy afternoon together.  

Nights By The Fire 

As one of the most romantic places in Colorado, we’ve furnished each of our cabins with wood-burning fireplaces. After your day exploring, relaxing, or adventuring, light a crackling fire and enjoy some quality time together.

C Lazy U is a unique vacation destination that is sure to leave you and your partner with lifelong memories. Whether you’re looking for a restful, rejuvenating experience or an adventure you can bond over, our Colorado guest ranch is the perfect choice for your next romantic vacation or honeymoon. We’ll see you on the ranch soon!