Activities

Horseback Riding Trails

Most days we have rides going out in the morning and afternoon, but we also go on an early morning breakfast ride and an evening dinner ride once a week. For those who really want to put some solid time in the saddle we offer an all day ride with a picnic lunch at destinations like Pearl Lake or the South Fork of the Elk River. Rides are limited to 2-6 rides so each adventure can be tailored to your riding ability. We encourage family rides, but keep in mind the rides will be geared towards the most inexperienced rider. So if you want to go on a more challenging ride, we will pair you with other riders with the same interest and riding level.  There are plenty of opportunities for more advanced and faster riding here at VVR. We have a lot of fun with these amazing creatures and our wranglers keep things lively all week long with adventurous bushwhacking rides and games that get the horses out of the normal nose to tail riding style. That makes it more fun for them and you!

Horse Riding Instruction

Everyday at the ranch offers a different and interesting clinic or horseback experience that can be great learning experiences for novices and experts alike. We've developed a variety of different clinics to explore the different aspects of horsemanship, and all suitable to all riding levels. Early in the week, our Balanced Riding Clinic provides in-depth instruction on correct body position in the saddle and at the walk, trot and lope. This clinic helps you learn how to move in sync with your horse for a smoother, more comfortable ride. Your body will thank you for this clinic all week on the trail. The Driving Clinic could well be unique to the ranch. Learn how to drive a team of Draft Horses from hitching them up to driving the wagon.  If you thought riding a horse felt powerful, just wait until you're in control of 3,000 pounds of horse. Individual lessons are available almost any day as well. You'll find that each wrangler has his or her own teaching style and background and that allows each of them to give you a different perspective on improving your skills. These fun activities offer a wealth of instruction and information that will benefit any level of rider while boosting your confidence and ability on the trail. Your newly developed skills may even give you an advantage in the Horse Olympics and Team Penning "competition" later in the week!

Fall Cattle Gather

Come mid-September, we partner up with a local rancher to help gather their cattle from their summer pasture.  The first part of the week is spent in the arena, honing each rider's skills on working cattle.  Once everyone is ready to go, we head out into the National Forest to search out, round up and drive in the cattle.  These weeks are for those interested in an intensive riding experience and a lot of time in the saddle. 

What makes Vista Verde unique to other Colorado guest ranches and luxury dude ranches is the variety of other activities in addition to an in-depth riding program. Many of our guests choose Vista Verde because one person wants to ride extensively, but the other doesn’t. And there is plenty for that other person to do so they are happy. Other activites include: Cattle Drives, Dressage, Ecotourism, Fishing, Inn-to-Inn Riding, Pack Trips, Safari, Carriage Driving, Cowgirl Camp, Cowboy Camp, English Riding, Golf, Ranch, Resort, Spa, Trail Riding, Wine Tours and Tastings.