Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch

Description:

• The Jessup family, owners of this 3,200-acre working cattle and horse ranch on the banks of the Big Thompson River, invites guests to join in with daily ranch chores, horseback riding, and cattle drives, or just kick back, relax, and enjoy the many other available activities. Accommodations here are delightful, quiet, and comfortable; the homey rooms and cabins have a touch of Western charm and are carpeted and furnished with antiques. Some cabins have fireplaces. A lodge, the Heritage, provides a gathering room with a large stone fireplace, library, gift shop, and exhibits on the history of the ranch, which dates to 1946. Horseback-riding lessons, overnight pack trips, breakfast rides, and adventure rides are included in the summer adult riding package. Other activities offered are fly-fishing, hayrides, and white-water rafting. There's also a full slate of entertainment, mostly Western in nature. Summer guests must schedule 6-night full-board stays; the rest of the year, overnight guests are welcome for "bunk and breakfast."

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2010