“Merci beaucoup! Many thanks for an absolutely fantastic week - our family of 13 had an unmatchable week of riding, shooting, walking, relaxing, and just enjoying the colorado mountains and all of the Elk Mountain hospitality.”

“We cannot thank you enough for providing such a beautiful week! It was absolute perfection, from all the riding , water rafting, fishing, shooting, foosball! It really gave our family a great chance to reconnect and have fun with each other, as well as our new found friends. The staff was the BEST! We could not have asked for a more professional and classy act.”

“Another wonderful week in heaven with you and your great crew. We love it here - the views, the horses, great meals, warm friends and so many memories. Thanks for being such a big part of our family's memories. It seems that our life stories always have special chapters that are Elk Mountain Ranch. ”

“Wow, I guess as the saying goes third time’s a charm! I didn’t think this trip could top our 1st or 2nd trips, but it somehow did! I try to figure out what makes this trip so terrific but realized it’s no one thing. It’s a combination of beautiful scenery, great horses and a tireless staff whose only goal is to make sure our every need is met. Mission accomplished! Thank you Sue, Tom and all the wonderful staff that have combined to once again give us a vacation we won’t soon forget. Only one thing left to say . . . See you again soon! ”

“Years ago, mom and dad had a dream to celebrate their 50th anniversary by treating the entire family to the kind of vacation and togetherness that everyone would remember for a lifetime and tell stories about for years to come. This was the perfect place! The beautiful setting and every single one of you helped make this that incredible, special experience they had envisioned. We cannot thank you enough for all the fun, laughter and memories and making our parent's dream come true.”

“It was well worth the trip from the UK to visit this wonderful place. We have had the best holiday ever and do not want to go home. The scenery stunning, the ranch and service fabulous and the staff awesome - nothing is too much trouble. Western hospitality cannot be faulted.”

“What a wondeful week, wonderful place, wonderful staff! Thank you for not just exposing us to the beautiful West and its awesome vistas and activities, but for welcoming us into your western lifestyle. The wranglers, gals in the kitchen, and the kids' counselors were great role models and really kind, fun people. We could not have had a better experience!"

“For years I have been wanting to take my grandsons to a dude ranch so we may bond for a week and experience what we have in common - horses, camping, nature and outdoors. We went on the computer and found what we thought would be the place - somewhere secluded, in the mountains, away from traffic, clean, good food & fellowship with others. Here at Elk Mountain Ranch, we have found this plus more - sincere people, outstanding students who have set a good example for Cory and Clay, ages 14 and 12. Thanks for everything and the many memories we have of being together.”

“From the moment we arrived, we were met with warm greeting and gracious hosts. The staff was amazing in all areas from activities, meals, child care. The amazing scenery was matched only by the different opportunities to experience them up close on horse and by river. Tom and Sue, thank you for a wonderful experience.”

“A quote from the Colorado Vacation Guide, 'The biggest moments in life are often those that make you feel the smallest.' Thank you for that feeling not just because I was around the highest mountains, the most beautiful nature and horses, the biggest amounts of delicious food, but most of all because during this past week, I was a small member of a BIG Elk Mountain Ranch family! That big week will change my small ife forever!”

“Thank you for sharing your home, your horses, your stories and for your amazing hospitality. We did have the best week ever. Thanks to you and the super amazing, wonderful staff.”

“Thank you to my Rocky Mountain Family. It was another amazing week full of fun, friendship and laughter. My soul is restored for another year. Until we meet again.”

“What an incredible week! We could not have asked for anything more. Everything was perfect! You have an amazing ranch family and we thank you for all that you did to make us feel welcome and at home. Sign us up for next year!”

“Dear Elk Mountain Ranch, thank you for bringing out the inner cowboy/cowgirl. We look forward to many more summers at Elk Mountain Ranch. Every member of your staff added something special to our experience and we will remember you all fondly. Next time we will bring the kids."

“Vacation of a lifetime! This trip blew away all my expectations! The staff here is beyond compare - so friendly and funny. Your hospitality is wonderful.”

“Recreating the family dream started by mom taking us to a Colorado Dude Ranch . . . This one is the best.”

“We love the spirit of Elk Mountain Ranch. Don't change a thing. Thank you for making our trip a special memory for our grandchild. We will bring the rest of the family back next time.”

“As always, after eight years, we had another unbeatable week! Thanks for what you do.”

“Well, it’s been about two months since Lori and I visited with our family and quite honestly it’s taken me about two months to compose this letter and go through the 1538 photos I took. Lori and I have been fortunate to visit many different parts of the world. During the course of our travels, we have seen many beautiful natural, as well as man made, attractions, land and seascapes. One thing we haven’t been able to find though, is the type of warmth, hospitality and feeling of welcomeness as we experienced when we visited with you and your family and staff, which incidentally, did not take long to figure out that the staff was truly family too. Undoubtedly, this adventure will surely go down as one of the very best; if not the best trip we have or may ever go on.”

“What I learned at Elk Mountain Ranch . . . 1. That people can be trusted 2. That the environment is sacred 3. That animals are to be respected - kindness to them is as important as feeding them 4. That people of all ages can laugh and play together 5. That people of different backgrounds can share the beauty of Elk Mountain Ranch’s surroundings 6. That the laughter of children playing hide and seek in the dark gave a lightness of heart to the elders who heard them 7. That it is never too late to make a beginning. Encouraged by great teachers, one can try fishing, archery, marksmanship, riding, etc. 8. That it doesn’t matter if you miss the target - or the clay pigeons 9. That well trained and caring staff work seamlessly and quietly to make every day the best 10. That Sue and Tom had a dream which they shared with us with love and compassion.”

“To everyone at Elk Mountain - thank you, thank you, thank you for one of the most memorable, fun vacations ever! Everything was beyond our expectations. Thank you, also, to our very patient horses - Shavano and Ruger. I have been trying to think of ways to describe our week with you and your family at Elk Mountain Ranch and have discovered that there just aren’t words available to truly demonstrate how and what we felt. The first emotion we felt when we arrived was one of awe at the breathtaking scenery and instant friendship and hospitality with you, starting with our welcome hug. The staff treated us like family and were never to busy to chat or ensure that all our needs were met. Having only a small number of guests made for quick friendships, great conversations and lots of fun. We felt like we were at summer camp for grown-ups only with much more comfortable beds and surroundings. The menu and home-cooked meals were top notch and our picnics and trail meals were tasty and fun. Thanks to Tom for our well-trained and very patient horses. All the activities and choices were super and the evening entertainment was truly wonderful . . . So much talent. The scenery was absolutely awe inspiring and I believe that we now know where heaven is. It was wonderful to be able to “hear the quiet”. All the serenity generated a lot of thought about how important it is for us to take pleasure in the simple things of family, friends and sharing good times and leaving everything else behind. ”

“Talk about heaven, I believe you have found it! I found a part of myself here that I never thought I had. Tom and Sue, you are the real deal. I love the whole staff. It has been a true pleasure. ”

“This was our best vacation ever! I’ve never seen such pure joy in the boy’s faces and that is priceless. We enjoyed the beautiful vistas but even more the beautiful people we met here. All the staff are outstanding - making adults and children feel very special. Enjoy the rest of your summer. We hope to see you in a few more years. ”

“I would have to say that this was the best vacation of my life. Our son Charlie hasn’t smiled, laughed or talked this much in years!!! We all had a great time. ”

“Our week wasn’t over when Jake and Andrew asked, “Can we stay another week” then “Well . . . Can we come back next year?!” That’s about the best endorsement (from teens) you can get! We’ve had a wonderful time and so appreciate the staff’s attention to detail, sense of humor, and most of all everyone’s genuine friendliness. We hope to see you again! ”

“Thank you for a wonderful vacation experience. The service from the wranglers to the housekeeping staff was superb & exceeded my expectations. I don’t think I’ve ever been on a vacation where I didn’t have to do anything & where I felt to well taken care of and safe. Your ranch has a wonderful spirit of welcome and friendliness. I loved the opportunity to become friends with the other quests and staff. ”

“To celebrate our 50th anniversary - we could not have chosen better - the Ranch is outstanding - the staff amazing. Thank you! ”

“Fantastic time. Loved the staff, fellow guests and activities. Thank you for making this more than a vacation. It was a community. We appreciated the laughter with Randy, deep conversations with Arlyn, the enthusiasm for our kids from Caitlin and Sam, and the inspiring Karaoke. We’re just so grateful for the professionalism and leadership of all the staff and , of course, the breathtaking scenery. You took hospitality to a new level! ”

“We would like to say that this was a great trip, but that isn’t enough of an explanation. This was an “experience.” A truly great and rewarding time. Tom and Sue, the week here is not nearly enough. You could never get enough of a tremendous staff and all of your beautiful scenery. Only one word fits, and put simply this is the Best! ”

“Extraordinary - without question - an experience we will remember all our lives. I have never vacationed in a place where each and every person cared so much about our experience. I hope to return again soon. ”

“Exceeded all expectations! What a beautiful place to celebrate my parent’s 50th anniversary! This is a gift that no money could buy . . . A week with family & no contact with the normal day to day life! Your staff is so caring as is a reflection of the love that Tom and Sue have for Elk Mountain! ”

“Once again, I can’t truly express in words what a tremendous time we’ve had here at Elk Mountain Ranch! You probably thought you were in the “guest ranch” business, but I think you are more in the “people-fixers” business! Keep doing what you do. ”

“We spent our holiday at Elk Mountain Ranch. Sue and Tom, the owners and all the staff there could not have been friendlier or more determined to make our stay more comfortable. The days were full and well organized with trails and cookouts surrounded by outstanding vistas whilst the white water rafting excursion was exhilarating on waters that were at their highest for ten years. After full days, evenings relaxing in beautiful surroundings and in good company listening to country music, cowboy poets and by no means least Tom’s stories of his experiences with wildlife around the ranch, the thoughts of work and the outside world couldn’t have been further away. ”

“What a wonderful place for a family reunion! In our 60+ years, last week at the ranch was the best vacation of our lives. Thank you! You delivered everything you advertised and more. The wranglers were genuinely friendly, helpful, caring and above all safety conscious. Staff personnel responsible for the children's program were excellent. We never had any concern for the welfare of our grandchildren. Food preparation, housekeeping, and the service personnel were outstanding. Meals and entertainment were great. Accommodations were comfortable and charming. Horse school taught by Tom was tremendous and we attribute his instruction to our lack of soreness. Sue you were a delightful host. The ranch was perfect for the family reunion of our diverse family. The other guests were an overall bonus to our enjoyment and memories. ”

“Holiday of a lifetime! If you are a couple, friends or a family, you will have the time of your life at Elk Mountain. The place is made even more special by the owners, Tom and Sue, and their professional, friendly and hardworking staff who cannot do enough for you. The cabins were spotlessly clean and the food plentiful, freshly prepared and excellent quality. The scenery was breathtaking both at the ranch and on the rides. We rode most days, but there are also activities for non riders or if you feel like a break, such as white water raft trips or trips to the hot springs. There is always something to do in the evening too. You are encouraged to do as little or as much as you like . . . we only sat down to eat! We truly enjoyed every minute of our week and will definitely return to enjoy the amazing hospitality again. ”

“Thank you for working with me on my merit badge. Please thank the wranglers that helped me with my merit badge. I had a great time at the Ranch. I really enjoyed the 20 gauge shot gun shooting, 22 rifle shooting, white water raft trip, and the hours and hours of riding. Thank the cooks for me for their great food. ”

“Just wanted to thank you for a wonderful week with my family. It was so nice to breathe such clean air, drink such good water and meet new people. We loved the entire staff, they could not have been more cordial, helpful and fun loving. All the children said it was their Best Vacation Ever! Thanks again for the great memories and the kindness shown by the staff. All three grandchildren were crying when they had to leave. ”

“Thank you for such a special trip. It fulfilled a dream I've always had of riding a beautiful horse through the woods, over the meadows and up the mountains. It was such a special, special time for mother and son to share what we love to do. I have such warmth in my heart for the staff. What an extended family you have become in one short week. Thank you for a beautiful experience! ”

“Thanks for a fantastic week which exceeded our expectations. We never would have believed we could have trotted and cantered after just one week. The staff made us feel part of the family and we've been at home here. Your website was what attracted us here and what a great find it was too! Sorry to leave, but we hope to be back. ”

“What an awesome vacation! You obviously love what you do -- and it definitely shows in the warmth and hospitality you extend to your guests. We immediately felt at home and couldn't have felt more welcome. ”

“WOW! Any expectations I had were shattered. We truly had the time of our lives. I've never seen such beautiful country. The horses were great. We truly could not have had a better time. To say the staff was superb is an understatement. We will take away life long memories: the beautiful people - staff & guests, food, fun and friendship. ”

“Every expectation was blown away! Every detail of the week put a smile on our faces, and we'll remember this week forever. The entire staff was incredible, the food terrific, the cabins adorable . . then there were the horses . . . thank you for much more than a vacation - it was a life memory. ”

“The ranch has ruined me for civilization forever. How can I ever be satisfied looking at flat land and traffic after this, the greatest week ever lived? You have restored my faith in humanity with your kindness, humor and work ethic. I've never felt more connected with my family. This place is magic. ”

“I spent the week after our departure mentally noting the time of day and what activity would be underway at the ranch. I made the BBQ brisket and cowboy cookies, and my boots are still sitting in our entryway with a little coating of Elk Mountain Ranch arena dust. I cannot bear to put them away. A nice vacation gives you a break from life, but a great vacation changes your life. I have more peace and more daring because of my time on your trails. ”

“We had a great week! Loved the trail rides especially through the aspen forest. The wranglers have lots of patience with "cowboy" guests. Whitewater rafting trip was awesome! Wonderful food - a special thanks for the "special diet" needs. Great housekeeping staff . . . never allowed us to lift a hand. Thanks for a memorable week, hope to return some day! ”

“This vacation was definitely a "more than expected" experience. The horseback riding was absolutely amazing! The overnighter was great. I wish I could take LaMour home with me, she will be very missed. But the staff members will be impossible to forget! You guys (and girls) made everything possible and it is very appreciated. I don't want to go home. But I do promise to come back one day. "

“We had such a vague idea of what a Dude Ranch would mean when we got here. It has defined itself in so many unexpected beautiful ways in the week we have been here that words really do it no justice. The vistas, the warm loving people, the great meals and animals who show the love and care they have received are only a small part of what it means to be here. It has been an honor and a pleasure to share your exquisite piece of God's best work - Colorado. ”

“We have truly enjoyed our time with all of you this week. The time and energy you give to your guests makes this place so special. You've been blessed with the gift of hospitality. It has been a joy to get away from all the digital conveniences of home. Thanks again for the commitment and sacrifices you make. It made our vacation one we will never forget. ”

“Thank you to Tom, Sue, and the entire staff for providing our family with a truly great vacation! It takes us 51 weeks of running around, checking emails, faxes and answering cell phones and 1 week of enjoying beautiful scenery, meeting great people and enjoying the wonderful people that work at the ranch to realize that the best things in life are free. Thanks for taking us out of the rat race for a week and allowing us to enjoy the natural beauties of Elk Mountain Ranch. We look forward to our next visit. ”

“What a vacation! You all "wowed" us with your service and hospitality. When I decided to come to a Ranch, I didn't expect a world class vacation. I enjoyed every activity, and I am thankful for each opportunity this week presented. All the staff were more than great hosts; you all have become friends. Thanks to all the wranglers for a fabulous overnight trip. ”

“Picture a 9 year old girl begging her parents every year for a horseback riding vacation - - now 35 years laters that dream is realized. I'm sure it was fate that I had to wait that long, because I can appreciate that much more. Over every hill and turn on my trusty steed, Josey, I marveled and awed over what is an artist's painting come to life - - each flower, rock, shrub and tuft of grass, the smell of sweet sage, the clouds making shadows over the mountain side. At the top of Katie's Peak, I found my heaven. There are not words to describe my feelings. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. ”

“What a wonderful time we had at the ranch! Never dreamed it would be so great! Yours is a "first class" operation, and we're looking forward to a return visit.”

“What a great week. You and your wonderful staff put together a great experience for our family. There were too many highlights to name them all. Maybe the best thing was that we stepped away from computers and TVs long enough to share some great family experiences. ”

“What an intelligent, patient, loving, articulate and exciting group of people. You are an inspiration to all of us and you all remind us of how much we have in common with one another.”

“Thank you so much for such a great time. The beauty of the mountains can only be mirrored by your kindness and hospitality. I feel truly blessed to be able to spend a truly magnificent week with my daughter in a place as beautiful as this. We will be back. Thanks for all you've done to take care of our needs.”

“This was a true miracle for our family. I thank you deeply. You amaze me with your solid structure, attention to safety and flexibility to meet the needs of everyone.”

“On behalf of the whole family, I would like to say thank you for making our first trip to Colorado our best vacation ever. Your family and staff captured our hearts with your hospitality. One of the nicest things in life is to see your children happy and that they were. Now all I need to figure out is what to do with a little 10 year old city slicker who wants to grow up to be a cowgirl!”

“We arrived with high expecations (from earlier testimonials!) but you all have exceeded every one of them. We feel like we have been welcomed into the life of a large and happy family. You have made us feel so totally at home, completely relaxed and thoroughly spoiled. Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation. We can't wait to be back.”

“Thanks for turning our fantasy vacation into reality - beyond our wildest expectations. Tom, Sue and the staff are the best!”

“This is one vacation that we thoroughly enjoyed and will never forget. You'll be in our hearts forever. To us the ranch is like heaven; the best place on Earth. The good Lord willing, we'll be back next year.”

“Thanks for a great week at Elk Mountain Ranch. We enjoyed meeting all of you as well as the other guests during the week. The week will be remembered for friendship, adventure, service, humor and great fun. Thank you all.”

“Once again, thank you so much for a FANTASTIC week! We definitely had "ranch withdrawls". Well, you were right when you commented on how we will leave saying, "this was the best trip I have been on!" Thanks to you both and your hardworking staff. We had a wonderful, enjoyable and relaxing week. We could not speak more highly of Elk Mountain Ranch.”

“For about a week or two after our return home our heads and hearts were still at Elk Mountain. Checked our lottery ticket as soon as we hit Florida, and if we had won, we would have packed up our cats and headed West. Too bad — we had to face reality.”

“We wanted to take a moment to thank you for a wonderful vacation. We all had a wonderful time and have many great memories to look back upon. The first evening we said we were at Elk Mountain for fresh air, vistas, and fun. There's no question our wishes were fulfilled. What we didn't expect was how much we'd enjoy the outstanding staff & other guests. Your staff was ALWAYS friendly, fun loving and welcoming. Our enjoyment felt like a priority, and we're all grateful! Thanks for your Dude Ranch hospitality and the great Food - - diets for the rest of the summer.”

“You run a wonderful ranch, and our week at Elk Mountain was everything we ever dreamed of . . . and more. At least once a day someone will check the time and comment on what's going on now at Elk Mountain. I think this will continue for a long time. Thanks again for everything.”

“You made me feel welcome — like family. What a terrific bunch of young people you have. Each and every one is very competent with the patience of a saint and a great sense of humor. The food was outstanding. Everything was delicious. My compliments to the chef. Your program of activities was great. Enough to do so I was never bored, but not so much that I needed a vacation to recover from my vacation. I even had time to pick up my feet and relax with a good book! A truly unforgettable week.”

“What a fantastic time we had with you all on the Ranch! It was everything we had hoped for . . . and more. I still can't believe that I cried when we left on Sunday, but I happily could have stayed forever. The times listening to the evening poetry and songs made us rethink our own evenings entertainment. Ben is now strumming away on his guitar, and I've promised to dust the piano keyboard. We've been playing cards and sitting in front of the log burner with our newspapers and books. The television hasn't been switched on since we got home!”

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