Blue Lake Ranch
Nestled on the shores of a sparkling lake in Hesperus, Blue Lake Ranch provides breathtaking views of Colorado’s awe-inspiring natural beauty. From rolling fields of flowers to lakeside sunsets and mountain backdrops, you can escape into a rustic paradise perfectly designed for R&R.
Only 15 minutes from downtown Durango, this ranch-style resort offers the best of the Colorado wilderness on a silver platter. Originating as a Norwegian homestead in 1910, it has transformed into 200 acres of private luxury with 16 unique lodging options. From rooms and suites to private riverside cottages, the choice is yours! Marvel at the majestic La Plata Mountains, take a stroll through expansive meadows or find nirvana surrounded by a kaleidoscope of color in the ranch’s lush gardens.
What makes it special?
Bird lovers should grab their binoculars and plan for adventures off the beaten path at the ranch. Home to 70 species of feathered friends, visitors flock to this slice of Colorado paradise to catch glimpses of nesting Canadian geese and great blue herons.
Looking to reel in some fun with an afternoon fishing trip? The ranch is home to a private spring-fed lake brimming with trout. You can also cast a line on the nearby Animas River. Guests get the red-carpet treatment with access to a private mile of pure Gold Medal fishing bliss.
The most “Colorado” thing about this place
Colorado residents have a passion for the great outdoors and, thanks to Blue Lake Ranch’s mountain setting, you’ll be communing with Mother Nature like a local in no time. Hiking tree-lined trails or fishing for breakfast is just your typical morning here in the Centennial State.
Our favorite traveler review
“Blue Lake Ranch is such a heavenly place. It is remote enough to feel like you have truly escaped. The gardens and grounds are beautiful. The breakfasts are plentiful and delicious, Southwest style. Also, you can drive to so many cool outdoor monuments within a couple of hours in every direction: Chaco Canyon, Four Corners, Mesa Verde, Moab and many more.” — Acdenvermama, Tripadvisor
Things to see and do nearby
The scenic Colorado landscape surrounding Blue Lake Ranch provides a bounty of activities to experience and places to explore. Are Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings your cup of tea? Check out the Mesa Verde National Park. During the winter, Hesperus Ski Area is just a short drive away for lessons, downhill tubing and night skiing.
If a wild excursion is more your thing, Soaring Tree Top Adventures provides thrill-seekers the chance to scream while whizzing over the treetops via zipline. Or book a Mild to Wild whitewater-rafting trip to splash swiftly along one of Colorado’s rushing, untamed rivers.
Need a break from all that nature and fresh air? Test your luck at the Sky Ute Casino in Ignacio.
Photos courtesy of Blue Lake Ranch
