4UR Ranch

The 4UR Ranch sits at about 8,500 feet near Creede in southern Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, and has welcomed guests for more than 120 years. It began with its natural hot springs: railroad baron General William J. Palmer bought the property before 1900 and built the Wagon Wheel Gap Hot Springs Resort here. The ranch has been family-owned for about 40 years, and the hot springs pool is still one of its highlights.

The season runs from June into the fall, with a three-night minimum, for up to about 45 guests. Fly fishing is a real strength, with six miles of private water and guided trips into the Lost Lakes wilderness, and riding covers trail rides, fast rides, horsemanship and private lessons, with pony rides for young children. There is also hiking, mountain biking, rafting, archery, sporting clays, yoga, a pool, a fitness center and spa treatments. Counselor-led kids’ programs run Sunday to Friday for ages 5 and up, with afternoon childcare for younger ones, and adults-only weeks are scheduled during the season.

Guests stay in four Adirondack-style lodges or in cabins, with nightly turndown, and meals come from a Cordon Bleu-trained executive chef. San Luis Valley Regional Airport is about 75 miles away and Denver about 184 miles. Ask the ranch for current rates and what is included.