Tiny Home on a Colorado Horse Ranch
Book a cozy lil’ tiny house on a bustling horse-and-cattle ranch, just 35 minutes from Denver in Hudson. From the exterior gray-blue siding to the interior’s stainless steel and shades-of-gray (not like the books, though) decor, you’ll feel tucked away somewhere that’s obviously cared for.
Here you’re completely removed from urban life though conveniently located just a quick drive from Denver International Airport. Part of DEKO Ranch, this petite accommodation delivers big with modern appliances (there’s even a handy compact washer-dryer combo), lofted snooze-worthy bedding and, for stargazers, unfettered views of the inky night sky.
More of a camper? DEKO offers an elevated glamping tent pitched next to a burbling creek.
What makes it special?
We’re going with all the livestock, including sassy goats, resident doggos, some cute cluckin’ chickens and your very own tour guide — Sausage the cat. Just be sure you leave all the pens closed and, please, no feeding the animals. Those’re the ranch hands’ jobs.
The most Colorado thing about this place
We’re betting it’s the crystal-clear Rocky Mountain views as you catch the morning sunrise. Look out the picture window from the tiny home’s comfy couch, steaming cup of coffee in hand, for only-in-Colorado panoramas featuring both mountain peaks and the grassy plains. Then wander among the pens for special moments with the tawny, dappled and ebony steeds, all with flowing manes and tails.
Quirkiest thing to expect
If you wake up early enough and step outside, you just might hear the hair-raising roars of rescued lions and tigers living right down the road at The Wild Animal Sanctuary in neighboring Keenesburg. Be sure to see the sanctuary’s numerous lions, tigers and bears (oh my!), plus other carnivores like wolves, leopards and cougars, before snagging a gourmet hand-dipped ice-cream treat from the Welcome Center.
Our favorite traveler review
“This tiny house is dang near perfect and has almost everything you would need. Instructions were clear and easy to understand. Lots of amenities and very peaceful and quiet. I can’t say enough good things about this place. Very modern and sleek. Lots of room to sleep with two beds and a couch. The horses and cats were a huge plus. We loved being greeted by the gray-and-white cat and the other fluffy cat as well as hearing the rooster this morning. One of the best nights sleeps in a very long time. This tiny house is the perfect staycation. Wish I could’ve stayed longer. It was such a treat to be able to see the constellations for once. If you stay here, you won’t be disappointed.” — Kellan, airbnb
Things to see & do nearby
Motor over to Brighton for groceries and wildlife spotting at Barr Lake State Park, but don’t forget about The Pepper Pod, Hudson’s own casual breakfast spot serving goodies — like smothered biscuits and gravy or huevos rancheros doused in spicy green chili — since 1913.
Photos courtesy of airbnb