Pleasant conversation was interrupted as guests started making their way to the pavilion at the back of the Elk Lodge to see a very rare spectacle. To the east, the now famed double rainbow arched into the sky, turning almost every guest and staff member into a shutterbug. It was half of a double feature show in the evening sky, because to the west, the sunset brilliantly lit up the atmosphere in a beautiful shade of gold. The spectacle seemed to set the tone not just for the dinner but for the entire stay at Smith Fork Ranch- spontaneous, pleasantly surprising, beautiful. With the ranch now open through November and offering new experiences for the fall season, it seemed anything was possible.
Getting There
It’s a fairly big road trip from Colorado Springs, but the five plus hours you’ll be spending on the road will take you past some scenic views such as the Arkansas River, the Blue Mesa Reservoir, the San Juan Mountains, and of course a lot of autumn color all along the way. It’s a good idea to stop in either Gunnison or Salida during the trip to get some gas and food.
The Ranch
Located in the West Elk Mountains, the ranch boasts 4 private cabins and a guest lodge, with the largest cabin situated on the privately owned stretch of the Smith Fork River. While some would think staying at a ranch is roughing it, it couldn’t be farther from the truth. All the ranch accommodations including the cabins have internet access. A hot tub resides behind the cabins and the Elk Lodge to relax in after a fun day. The Elk Lodge has games, a bar, and a fitness center. Just in case guests wanted to rough it (sort of), the ranch has two Native American style tipis to go camping (in the backyard). The ranch has its own garden where the harvest doesn’t have to go very far to make it to the dinner table.
Beyond the accommodations and facilities is the remarkable hospitality. They’ll chat with you during breakfast at the Dinner Bell Cook House to make sure your day plans are set. They’ll greet you during cocktail hour anxious to hear how everything went during the day. They’ll make their rounds during dinner to make sure you’re enjoying your meal, and making recommendations about the area for the next day. They’re consummate hosts intent on making your stay entertaining and enjoyable.
Seasonal Offerings
Now that they’re open through November, Smith Fork Ranch is offering packages and activities geared toward fall season. In addition to the numerous activities they offer, including horseback riding, fly fishing, and hiking, they’re now offering wing shooting packages complete with guides, dogs and bird processing. They’re also offering culinary packages and local tours of wineries and organic farms to sample the harvest.
Horseback Riding
Riding is serious business at the ranch (in a good way). If you don’t have the right footwear, they’ll lend you a pair from their boot shed, some rumored to have famed histories. Stampede straps are required on headgear that’s not a helmet. Jessalyn, one of the wranglers, gives a full briefing to the group on how to handle the horses. Horses are mounted from an elevated deck to reduce horse fatigue. Riders are given a chance to get familiar with their mounts before heading out.
Given that the weather was threatening the group made haste onto the trails. Along the way, the trails were relatively challenging, but the payoff was that the fall colors were at their peak. Errant cattle were found among the trees and bushes. Picture prefect views of Saddle Mountain and the Sleeping Indian were discovered on the trails as well. Jessalyn is a skilled instructor, getting the newbies comfortable and trotting on the mounts. She keeps the mood light and relaxed, and quick to address any issues with the horses that come up. Playing it by ear, the group is treated to additional trotting instruction in the arena coming off the trail. The whole experience makes you wish you had a cowboy hat to borrow as well.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
The mid morning sun casts stark shadows throughout the rock, causing concern as to whether or not there's enough memory and power for the digital camera to capture the scenery. For the “non-fans” of heights, the slightest breeze feels as if it's enough to get blown right off the canyon edge to the depths below if venturing too close. As the apprehensive discover the canyon however, paralyzing fear is replaced with both awe and exhilaration, inspired by the beauty and unfathomable scale of this natural wonder. The stunning views can be found anywhere on the North Rim, either by car or on foot. Regardless of the means, it’s a destination that can’t be missed during a stay at Smith Fork Ranch. It certainly should be on anyone’s list, “bucket” or otherwise.
Dining
Cocktails and dinner provide opportunity for both guests and the staff to mingle. The very social atmosphere inspires guests who didn’t know each other before coming to the ranch to have dinner together.
The food is indescribably good. Head chef Matthew Dusharme is a veteran of five star restaurants and cooks with ingredients from the ranch and around the area. There is no menu to choose from, just a card describing the several courses. It doesn’t do it justice because guests will exclaim, nod and shake their heads in disbelief at how good it all is. Even if you don’t usually do gourmet food, it’s a near certainty you’ll like anything they cook. The spirits are fantastic as well; many made locally and sought after by the guests. It may take some time getting used to regular fare once you leave, because the spoil factor is very high.
More to Explore
At the end of the stay, you realize it’s not like any resort. It feels more like a visit to a friend or relative (one you actually like), and with so much to do in the seasons they’re open, it seems a foregone conclusion that you’ll be back to see them once again.
For More Info: Visit smithforkranch.com or call (970)921-3454 for reservations and info.
Comments