Cherokee Park Ranch

Cherokee Park Ranch sits at about 7,200 feet in the mountains near Livermore in northern Colorado, about 50 miles from both Denver International Airport and Northern Colorado Regional Airport. It has been welcoming guests since 1886, which makes it one of the oldest guest ranches in the state, and it is still family-owned. Its log lodge is around 120 years old, with suites inside and six outlying cabins, all with porch swings.

The season runs from June through September, with six-night stays in summer and shorter three-night stays in September, for up to about 40 guests. Activities are all-inclusive and nothing is compulsory. Riding covers trail rides, beginner and faster rides, horsemanship lessons, cattle work and team penning, and guests can even bring their own horse; trail riding starts at age 6, and children’s programs run in four age groups from 2 to 17. Beyond the saddle there is fishing, river tubing and rafting, hiking, mountain biking, archery, gold panning, hayrides, square dancing, art classes and a petting zoo.

Meals are family-style home cooking, and there is a pool, hot tub, saloon, game room and massages. Ask the ranch for current rates.