Quintessential Colorado

We took our pup Rosie for a romp in the dumping snow, and then enjoyed an exquisite dinner at The Ranch House, where we were treated to a well-seasoned, flaky halibut, the signature ancient grains vegetarian entree, and an astonishingly tender Wagyu filet mignon. (The Wagyu cattle are born and raised on the property.) A garlic black butter side added depth to an already exceptional dish.

The wranglers take enormous pride in their well-mannered horses, picking just the right one for first-time adults, hesitant children, or experienced riders. The guides take the time and care to teach each guest how to mount and control their horse on the scenic trails through the snowy valley.

Our evening wrapped up with some cutthroat Scrabble by the fireplace at Heck’s, s’mores at the outdoor fire pit, and an intimate concert by folk musician and singer-songwriter David Wilcox in the adjacent Broad Axe Barn. Wilcox sang with heartfelt emotion in a warm, James Taylor-like voice, capturing the audience with his philosophical and insightful lyrics. When I was growing up outside of Philadelphia, my dad was a concert producer and brought Wilcox to his folk music series many times, so I know his music well. It felt like coming home to hear his enchanting voice light up the rustic barn and provide smiles and laughter to so many guests.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch raises its own Wagyu herd of 150 cattle in a stress-free, natural environment and prides itself on raising its cows in a sustainable way—letting the cattle graze on local high-altitude grasses.

The following morning, we hit the extensive breakfast buffet at Heck’s before embarking on another action-packed day. My son and I headed to the stables for a snowy horseback ride, while my husband opted for a yoga class. Our guide, Stacy, paired me with Chex, a large and in-charge quarter horse who boldly passed my son and his horse before Stacy told me to tell him who was boss. I stepped it up and pulled the reigns in tight, after which Chex provided an enjoyable, sure-footed ride. It was a magnificent morning on a snowy path with my boy and another couple, who had just gotten engaged the night before.

A rustic hotel room in the main lodge.

After hours on the trail, I made my way to the spa for the Ranch Creek Signature Facial. Sharon worked her magic on my face, soothing my dry skin with organic cleansers, a mask and moisturizers that calmed the redness and brought my face back to a radiant glow.

Rebecca and her son Max on a morning horseback ride through the pristine wilderness.

As far as accommodations at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, our lodge, aptly named Cabin Creek, was cozy and well appointed, with luxurious full-size bath products in the shower, a compact but functional kitchen, and even a dog bed, homemade biscuits, bandana, and food/water bowls for Rosie. The cabins are a 15-minute walk from the main buildings, but we loved being in the forest surrounded by pine trees overlooking the creek.

Rebecca, about to embark on a fat-tire mountain bike ride through the Rocky Mountain wilderness of Devil’s Thumb Ranch.