Family getaway moments have a way of staying with us long after the suitcases are unpacked. During a Colorado winter weekend at C Lazy U Ranch, days unfold at a gentler pace, filled with simple, magical experiences that kids will remember for years to come.
1. Feeding the Ranch Animals
After breakfast, each day on the ranch starts with the option to jump on the feed wagon and visit the horses in the meadow. Even though winter is a quieter season for our herd, families can still get up close to a portion of them as they relax in the winter pasture, ears pricked and muzzles diving into their hay. It’s a peaceful, behind‑the‑scenes glimpse of ranch life that kids won’t soon forget.
2. Riding Horses in the Snow
At C Lazy U Ranch, horseback riding is part of the experience in every season, including winter. When the snow falls, rides move at a gentler, walk‑only pace so our sure‑footed horses can stay comfortable and confident on the trail. With our experienced wranglers leading the way, even first‑time riders can relax, take in the scenery, and settle into the quiet rhythm of a winter ride.
There’s still plenty of magic in that slower pace. Following a single‑file string of horses along a snowy ridge feels like stepping into the pages of a storybook, only with a calm, steady tempo instead of a fast‑paced adventure. Winter rides at C Lazy U are intentionally slower and shorter, designed to keep both horses and riders safe while still making room for those unforgettable “pinch‑me” mountain moments.
Because we put safety and footing first, most of our trail system rests under snow and ice in the colder months, and we carefully maintain just a couple of safe trail areas for guest rides. Expect outings that typically range from about 45 minutes to an hour and a half, always kept at a walk and always paced for the least experienced rider in the group, so everyone can stay relaxed and enjoy the views without worrying about speed.
From November through April, horseback riding at C Lazy U simply looks a little different than it does in the summer. Rides are slower and shorter, almost always walk‑only, with the occasional walk‑trot opportunity in November and April when footing allows, while loping is generally reserved for warmer months and specialized clinics. That way, winter guests know to plan on a quiet, scenic experience that puts horse welfare and safety first while still delivering that cozy, storybook feel.
3. Making Snow Angels
Abundant fresh snow at C Lazy U sets the stage for all sorts of whimsical winter weekend snow-play. You’ll never run out of white stuff for building a family of snowmen, making snow angels, launching snowballs, or even constructing a fort.
4. Spinning Downhill on a Snow Tube
C Lazy U has built the ultimate snow tubing hill! A snowmobile tows riders up to the top. Add a twist to the push, and the tube will go spinning down. It’s a dizzying rush followed by a smooth finish in the flat landing area below.
5. Holding the Reins of a Dogsled
With special advance arrangements, C Lazy U can add the magic of this arctic tradition to your winter weekend getaway. Meet the team of adorable, well-trained Alaskan huskies and hold on as they take you for a dogsled ride of a lifetime.
6. Scoring a goal on the Open-Air Hockey Rink
An afternoon hockey game is a daily tradition in the wintertime here at the ranch. We have skates and sticks to lend to players of all ages, and even a Zamboni machine to keep the ice smooth and safe for all to use. The ice rink is also open for figure skating or just wobbling around on two blades in the Colorado sunshine.
7. Breaking fresh trails
Even in snowshoes, you still sink into truly fresh powder. For the aerobic workout of your life, try breaking fresh trails across the snowy landscape. Not only will you burn a ton of calories, but you’re likely to be rewarded by seeing wildlife that you won’t see from the beaten path…bringing us to our next moment:
8. Spotting Wildlife
C Lazy U sits on 8,500 acres of land – an alpine wilderness area that is home to an impressive amount of wildlife. During the winter months, guests have spotted moose, deer, elk, bighorn sheep, marmots, pikas, and many other critters prancing through the snow – who knows what you will spot when on the ranch!
9. Feasting in the Dining Room
A major highlight during a winter weekend getaway at the ranch is the gourmet dining! Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the family dining room of the main lodge, where everyone comes together to enjoy the gourmet Colorado-inspired fare.
10. Warming up by the Fire
Whether it’s the crackling fire pit outside the main lodge or the cozy fireplaces inside the cabins, there’s always a fire roaring to warm up cold hands and cheeks after a day outside. That’s what the C Lazy U luxury dude ranch is all about – quality family time together in an atmosphere of cozy comfort.
