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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 10, 2023
How long is the drive from Los Alamos to Breckenridge?
The direct drive from Los Alamos to Breckenridge is 288 mi (463 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 37 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Los Alamos to Breckenridge, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Taos, as well as top places to visit like Ski Santa Fe and Santuario de Chimayo, or the ever-popular The Santa Fe Opera.
Taos is a town situated in the northern part of New Mexico that's surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The town is renowned for its historic adobe buildings, including Taos Pueblo, a multistory adobe complex which has been inhabited by Native Americans for centuries. In addition to its cultural significance, Taos is also recognized as an artist colony with numerous galleries and museums that showcase regional artwork.
Most popular city on this route
23 minutes off the main route, 22% of way to Breckenridge
Best stops along Los Alamos to Breckenridge drive
The top stops along the way from Los Alamos to Breckenridge (with short detours) are Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, Taos Pueblo, and The Santa Fe Opera. Other popular stops include Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Ghost Ranch, and Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center.
The Santa Fe Opera is a renowned opera company that features both classic and contemporary pieces in a woodsy hilltop setting. The company's Crosby Theater commands breath-taking vistas of the surrounding mountains, making it one of the state's top performing arts centers. The opera house hosts a variety of annual cultural festivals, provides apprenticeship programs for all aspects of production, and regularly stages seasonal performances.
Absolutely beautiful place to watch a performance. The opera was timed perfectly to watch the sunset behind the set and the intermission to watch the moon rise by the bar. The drinks were very strong and relatively cheap. Lots of parking and room for people to tailgate. The gift shop was pretty expensive but had a few items on sale.
Kathleen S — Google review
What a thrill! Been wanting to come for years! Amazing. I'll be back.
David LeBarron — Google review
Absolutely stunning venue! It’s difficult for me to describe all Mother Nature surrounding the opera house, specially that magnificent sunset right in front of the audience! Highly recommend it.
P Takehara — Google review
I love opera and grand old opera houses. I love the Met and consider it my home base. But the Santa Fe Opera house is a very special place. A wonderful sense of being outdoors but protected. To see the desert beyond the stage and feel the sun set and have your eyes adjust to the gathering dark as the opera progresses is a sublime experience. And the productions are always at the highest level, with leading singers and conductors and production teams.
Stephen Serwin — Google review
The Santa Fe Opera is a unique and very special place. From the tailgating experience to the patron dinner to the distinguished speakers, there is something for everyone to enjoy prior to the performance. The audience gets to enjoy not only the fantastic opera, but the dynamic vistas will blow you away. Bravo!
Andrew Black — Google review
Beautiful venue and a superb performance. Bravo, Santa Fe Opera.
Gina Glassman — Google review
I saw Tosca and this is my second time seeing N opera in Santa Fe. The first time was over ten years ago. I took my husband to see this opera theatre for the first time and he loved it. We plan to make this a summer thing. If you haven't been to Santa Fe, then Santa Fe Opera is worth the Trip. The singers were phenomenal and it's all outdoor!
A — Google review
Went to see Marriage of Figaro which was very well done. The theatre and overall experience were outstanding. We purchased the box lunches in advance which were both salmon with a salad and, while pricy, were good. We probably under-dressed so make sure to take a coat/blanket.
Steve Hartig — Google review
A beautiful opera house outdoors in the beautiful city of Santa Fe. They always put on great operas with amazing performances by all involved.
Daniel Massey — Google review
Come early to have a picnic and watch the sun go down. You can dress way up or come as you are, but bring a jacket since the sides are open to the night air. Excellent performances and a free, informal intro one hour before the performance to key in on what to listen for. Subtitles in English and Spanish on the back of the seat in front of you. Best date night in the Land of Enchantment.
Patricia Locke — Google review
Our very first opera did not disappoint. The Santa Fe Opera was one of the BEST performances we have ever experienced. We loved the backstage tour the morning of the performance. The artistry and craftsmanship from costume to lighting design and performers are second to none. There is good reason why they won best festival operahouse! We can't wait to come back next summer.
The venue itself has plenty of parking and all seats are shaded. There are picnickers who arrive early and the gift shop is phenomenal. Bring a blanket or jacket in case of cold or rain as it is open on 3 sides. This stunning facility was comfortable and despite being opera novoces, La Tosca was phenomenal. The subject matter was dark, but I'm told that's opera for you!
Matt R — Google review
This was my first season. Ticket purchase was easy. I really didn't expect the tailgating. Parking opens three hours early, so you can take a party with you. I saw pretty impressive spreads. The experience begins with the visual appeal of the landscape as you walk up to the box office. Acoustics are impressive. The instruments can be clearly heard from the pit. Because it is partially outdoors, the weather conditions sometimes contribute to the show. Barber of Seville was funny and with Santa Fe touches, but funny is difficult with the demands on those voices. They made it seem easy. Carmen showed the talent can turn serious. I hope to make more shows next season.
Hugo Sapien — Google review
I would never buy advance tickets from Santa Fe Opera. We had a planned a nice weekend trip to Santa Fe. We planned it 9 months in advance. 6 months in advance, we found out a family member has acute leukemia. We wanted to cancel. Everyone in Santa Fe was gracious and cancelled or refunded our trip plans. EXCEPT the Opera. In fact, they had the gall to ask for note from his doctor! How can we ask my father to do that? He is dying. All this place cares about is money. I know their policy says no refunds...but come on! Bad form, especially given this was a dream of ours.
Gaston Adams — Google review
This is a top-notch venue where high-quality performances are put on this stage. It's amazing the high quality of talent that they are able to bring in, noting the elevation is hard on the singers. There is a full orchestra and a great stage crew which gives you the full experience. This is a covered outdoor venue. Even the back of the stage can be left open to add the landscape to be part of the set.
There are other concerts besides operas that can be found on the Santa Fe opera website. Also, from this website, you can find food options and more information to enhance your experience.
Nile Frederickson — Google review
This place is awesome is so awesome that it's outdoor good fresh air with lightning Stone the weather in the background I need that little display schizophrenia seating the other chairs were they actually you can read the language with what they're singing
1st time here. Thankfully got some fresh snow. Great terrain and the staff is amazing. So kind, friendly and most importantly..EXPERIENCED!
Ski here if you can. This is an off snow year..so it can only get better!
Kurt Smith — Google review
What a great little ski area, we actually hiked the mountain during the summer and loved the experience. I could tell the tree skiing at Ski Santa Fe in the winter must be outstanding. Lots of widely spaced trees to carve through. In any event, while nothing was opened at the resort during the summer, we'd definitely go back during the winter and would recommend hiking there in the summer. The mountain had alot of activity.
Anthony R — Google review
Always a beautiful experience at Ski Santa Fe. Their wonderful team works diligently to make sure that there is enough snow coverage to create a great base layer. The mountain is never too crowded and there's lots of different terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Enjoy!
Anton Dababneh — Google review
This mountain was great! Super easy to get lift tickets and rentals... helmet line was super slow, but otherwise pretty smooth experience. I loved the Rfid lift tickets, made the lift lines super fast. We went mid week of spring break and didn't wait in line once. I'd definitely take this over Angle Fire, only downside is there's no lodging at the slopes.
Joe Dezzutti — Google review
Love love this place! I started to learn how to skiing when I was 10 or 11 years old and later learned to ride snowboarding when I was in high school. I have been there for every spring break and I’m currently in 30 years old and still doing snowboarding. This is very family friendly, friendly staffs and friendly instructors! I highly recommended!!!
Alexander Smith — Google review
My first ski trip as a teenager was Ski Santa Fe in the 1980's. This time was taking my daughter for her 20th birthday. The staff and the slopes were great. We were lucky on timing because there was a snow storm the day before we arrived so conditions were perfect!
Shawn Wilson — Google review
1st time for our family to ski. What a great place to do so! Staff was fast and friendly. Booked everything online with no issues at all. Prices were very reasonable when compared to Angel Fire, Taos, Breckenridge. Definitely be sure to leave early as the parking lot fills up fast. Our sons had a blast and have already asked when we can go back to ski some more!
M Chu — Google review
Great family-like resort. Lift ticket prices are reasonable, yet fixed, so no way to save on prices planning ahead or multi-day skiing. That being said, we had a great time as a beginner group, blue runs are very well spread out to make the days very dynamic trying different routes and getting to know the mountain.
Gayway run was our favorite. Great views and wide runs.
Humberto Herrera — Google review
Excellent! Ski Santa Fe is a great smaller sized mountain. We had an amazing time here as they have something for everyone. I’d call it more of a ski area than a resort because there’s no lodging at the mountain. So you have to drive there. The road up can be icy and with steady traffic and a windy road can be a little stressful to those not used to those conditions. They have great accommodations for kids and beginners with different ski lessons and a ski school. They have a few lifts and several black and blue trails. The lift tickets and rental equipment isn’t expensive which is great. They have a restaurant to order food and drink and relax at the base of the mountain too. Good pick up and drop off locations and parking throughout. Overall we give this place a thumbs up. Great snow here and a solid base of over 80 inches. The lifts can be a little slow, but they’re well managed and maintained. #skibueno #skisantafe
Timothy Williams — Google review
Huge, very clean facilities inside with food, drink and a store. Plenty of tables and a microwave. Outside, multiple slopes of different difficulty and length. Much cheaper than other locations throughout the country. So far I've been Bug Bear, CA; Lake Tahoe, CA; Eden UT.
I like this one the best. Keep in mind that the elevation is over 1000ft at the base of the ski lift. Take your time adjusting to the oxygen level.
Rodica Luca — Google review
It's the best ski resort ever! A special thanks to Andrew Bushing who wasn't just take caring the chair lift! He made a before and after in my new ski life! I promise you! He helped me a lot! I hope we could have more Andrews in our lives 🙏
Andrea W. Earp — Google review
Had an awesome 1st time skiing experience. Staff was great & accommodating. Visited two days last week of December. First day got nice snow storm all day and second day fresh snow and a bit sunny. What more can you ask for. Plan on coming back again👍🏾
Edward Ahumada — Google review
A wonderful place to ski! Whether you are going solo or with the whole family this place is fantastic! The lines move fast and the lifts are well maintained. Perfect power day in the clouds! New Mexico at it best! Santa Fe luxury so close and the adventures of a lifetime waiting on the top of the mountain. Perfect place to shred!
sara sena — Google review
Lift lines have gotten much better with the new RFID system. It’s a home-town hill vibe but with a few nice amenities. We appreciate the adaptive ski program, the abundant nature and beautiful views, the new ticketing program, and ample green and blue runs, along with plenty of other more technical terrain. On the con side: parking is limited, the road up is treacherous and very little in the way of public transit options.
Kelly Simon — Google review
Very nice place. Lift tickets are cheap compared to other places. I liked the layout. It was a busy day, and a lot of people were there (Friday before Christmas), but it wasn't too hectic to have fun, and the lift lines weren't long.
JR Plotts — Google review
This is one of the winter sports that everyone likes to do in their lifetime. Can you guess that? It is the ski. This sport is one that gets you close to the majestic furious friend, the mountain. Standing tall in the middle of the plan makes everyone look up and the one who reaches the submit to look down friendly.
This place is one that welcomes everyone visiting New Mexico. The local public work is active during the snow season to make sure everyone gets to the top safe. Staff in the ski area are very friendly for the fact every visitor on this place shows a cool attitude
Mountain range is so good that anyone with the basic skill of skiing can have fun.
I would recommend visiting this place just as a non skier as well.
Ayyappan — Google review
First time skiing here. I’ve skied my whole life and my wife just started. This mountain satisfied both of our levels perfectly. It’s is a great mountain to learn on with plenty of beginner and intermediate terrain but also with a lot of expert terrain. Most of the people seem to stay in the beginner and intermediate terrain which leaves the expert terrain wide open. Lift lines were not long. Weather was incredible, snow was good. This is a great mountain to bring a big group or just slip away as a single in the glades. Had a fantastic time. And great lift prices compared to the “epic and ikon mountains”.
Chris Zahner — Google review
I been to few resorts and I think this place is my least favorite. It’s a small resort compared to the others I’ve been too. Snowboarding lessons were good and my kids learned how to snowboard by day 2. However, the rental process was not ideal. We were told to remember where they put our snowboards. I’ve pointed it out 3x where our snowboards were and they wouldn’t look and just kept repeating “I told you to remember where we put them.” It was really unorganized how they put 5 rentals in separate areas. Finally… when the guy said I’ll just give you a different rental he went to the area where I said our snowboards were at and he magically found them. When we returned our rental we videoed where they put our 5 snowboards but when we came back the following day, they had the same issue and couldn’t find the boards although we recorded and took pictures of where they put it at. I think the whole rental process is what gave this place a 3 star because it’s so unorganized and time consuming.
The Santuario de Chimayo is a Catholic pilgrimage site, constructed in 1816 with colonial-style adobe architecture. It is renowned as the "Lourdes of America" due to the miraculous healing properties of the tierra bendita or holy dirt found within. The faithful visit this chapel to obtain some of this sacred dirt from a small pit inside and apply it to their afflictions or consume it mixed with water.
The Santuario de Chimayo is always a nice place to visit, especially in the spring. Even if you aren't religious there are many reasons to appreciate the Santuario. In a room adjacent to the chapel is a round hole in the floor where supposedly, the blessed sand never runs out. Outside of the church courtyard are beautiful grounds that bloom in spring. The area near the creek is also an excellent place to view a plethora of fowl. This area of New Mexico has a rich Native American and Spanish heritage, it would be a crime not to visit sites such as this. I hear the red chile powder here is the best too.
Dario Chavez — Google review
I went to the Santuario De Chimayo with my son daughter in law granddaughter and my husband. My son and daughter in law went to buy us some red chili de Chimayo and some rosaries. Then the Father blessed them for us also. It was so beautiful, that I didn't want to leave. The church is amazing and so is the land. I highly recommend this place to visit when in northern New Mexico.
Yvonne Brandenburg — Google review
We enjoyed a peaceful afternoon visit to the Santario de Chimayo. We found some absolutely great merchandise at the gift shop. They have clean and convenient public restrooms. It was a beautiful day to visit this historic holy place. They have plenty of parking and several places to purchase keepsakes, snacks, and refreshments.
Paul Garcia — Google review
Pious place. Historical significance. Great beautiful location among the mountains. The holy dirt is supposed to cure you of many ills. The church is beautiful in its simplicity. You can buy candles at the store. Try to go during Easter and the crowd is very good though it makes finding parking difficult.
Rhishi Pethe — Google review
The church or chapel is certainly peaceful and meditative. There is some energy there. But be warned, all your new-found spiritual joy evaporates when you visit the tourist trap shops. The staff are bandits of old. Spend 30 minutes and try not to buy the many trinkets available that will, afterall, probably sell for a few pennies at your local Thrift Charity store when you die.
David Gilbank — Google review
This is a very interesting, religious, spiritual area. There was a sudden thunderstorm when we were there, followed by a beautiful rainbow. Then we realized it was a double rainbow. The buildings are all very unique.
Deb Courts-Brown — Google review
An important religious shrine in New Mexico, and a pilgrimage destination. It has expanded since we were here last, with photo walls where people leave pictures of lived ones for whom they are seeking prayers, indoor and outdoor chapels, the main sanctuary with a crucifix from the Spanish Empire supposedly found on the site, and the well where it was found still supplying "holy dirt" for this doing its blessing (though I suspect that the home, which is shallow, is filed regularly with dirt blessed by a priest. It is a lovely spot, with a river flowing past.
Michael Hess — Google review
Very special place. Gift shop card machine was down (happens a lot) so it was cash only. Most people seem to want the dirt from the chapel. Can leave prayer wishes before entering. Museum is okay, lots of different shrines. No entrance fee required but there are donation boxes everywhere. Do what you feel.
Sheryl Maxwell — Google review
Every year my son and I visit the Santuario to pray for our loved ones and everyone in the world. I still remember the first time I brought my mom to see the beautiful little church. She loved it and we've been coming to visit ever since. That was about 8yrs ago. I will try to keep coming back to visit and keep my loved ones and everyone in this world in my prayers.
Olga M Padilla — Google review
I love the history!! The gentleman at the museum was awesome. Anyone who has such a personal connection to the story and has a passion for what they do, makes the experience that more amazing. My only regret is that I don't know his name.
Chef Alberto — Google review
What a beautiful and spiritual place to visit. If you haven't ever been there, I recommend you go and visit this holy place with so much history.
Staci Alvarado — Google review
What a beautiful, peaceful place. It's amazing how faith works. The church was built in 1812. We were able to get some holy dirt from the hole that never goes down. They say it can preform healing.
David D. — Google review
Very quaint and beautiful. El Pocito was challenging to find but just ask for help and they’ll point you in the right direction. They sell both containers for the soil and bottles for holy water.
Melissa Martinez — Google review
Though i'm not Catholic, I still appreciate the beauty of this property. It felt peaceful, and it was beautiful in every way. We enjoyed the walk around the grounds and that you are able to take some of the healing dirt with you. I tried buying a few things from the gift shop, but unfortunately, the credit card machine was down, and we didn't have enough cash with us.
Toula F — Google review
It is a place with so much peace and a lot of history that all those people who adhere to the Catholic religion would really enjoy this place.
Ben Garcia — Google review
What a wonderful place! We did not expect this, with its extensive grounds, overlooking a small creek. So many places to think, and meditate, very much like what I would imagine a European pilgrimage site would feel like. For the most part, it’s very wheelchair accessible, even the gift shop, with only the church having steps down into it. But the majority of the place and the allure of it surrounds the church.
Allen Wickham — Google review
A truly special and spiritual place where faith and tradition intersect making it a must visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the cultural and religious tapestry of the American Southwest. The El Pocito with a small well of holy dirt was special. Make sure to bring a bag for your dirt. Candles can be purchased in the gift shop and then placed in the Church or surrounding shrines. Photography is not permitted inside the Church. Sunday Mass was at noon and held outside on the lower side of the property. Well attended service. Definitely well worth a visit.
If by chance you are a Georgia O'Keefe fan, this is a must see location. Very well maintained and you can tour virtually the entire place. Not very busy because of whete it is. If you are driving by, stop. Definitely a piece of American history.
Will Stein — Google review
This visit was sublime. On my bucket list, the house and gardens exemplify the mental giant that she was. Everything is purposeful and you walk away with a glimpse into her soul. The tours are well done with great respect for preserving her house and grounds. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and thoughtful. Wonderful experience that I highly recommend!
Meredith Cherven-Holland — Google review
O'Keefe museum is exceptional. Having visited a few times fine art content may vary, this time was exceptional.
KilnGod — Google review
We paid $85 for a 90 minute tour that could have been done in an hour. We learned a lot about O'Keeffe's life and yet, important areas were left out. Her relationship with Juan Hamilton, decades her junior for instance, and to whom she made her primary beneficiary, would have been interesting. Questions about her private life were met with, "read the book". Overall, we enjoyed the tour but would have liked more information.
Barbara Thompson — Google review
I'm sure the house is wonderful, but this listing definitely gets a 1-star review because it lists incorrect hours and also provides a link to a site that lists the hours for the Georgia O'Keefe Museum in Santa Fe.
This means that I confirmed the hours on the Google Maps listing and the website linked from it (the top of the page shows holiday hours for this week!), drove 3 hours, and learned that tours are actually only offered during some seasons and that the house is behind a locked gate the rest of the year.
This was pretty disappointing and hopefully this review will help others avoid the same issue. On the upside, I'd give the drive out there 5-stars - like much of New Mexico, it is absolutely gorgeous.
Seth Capron — Google review
An interesting visit of the property.
Small groups, book in advance.
Vincent Labreche — Google review
So special. So worth it. Really great guide and still stunned they let public tour the inside of her gorgeous home.
catherine cole — Google review
Groups are limited to six or fewer, which really enhances the experience. You have to book your tickets well in advance, but it's worth it.
Pierce Krouse — Google review
Interesting tour if you're a fan. I've never been to a famous artist's home before, so I didn't know what to expect. There's a lot of weird rules, but overall it was a good tour.
Lindsey Moore — Google review
Great studio and it shows what she was like as a human being.
Sieger Hartgers — Google review
Possibly the best thing I have ever experienced! The views from this wonderful place are breathtaking. You can see how she got inspiration for her wonderful paintings. The tour guide was excellent, knowledgeable, friendly and very helpful. Highly recommended.
Accommodations ranging from rooms to cabins in a 1950s ski resort with summer & winter activities.
This was really a great family fun resort. We bought tickets 10 days early for $19. Wow! We rented one of the cute little cabins. It was clean, complete kitchen, really nice. They have great rental equipment for both skiers and snowboarders. The slopes were well groomed.
Wendy Watson — Google review
The ticket desk people very nice. Get lift tickets at first small building on left. The rental does take a long time and rental staff could stand to be more friendly and helpful but they were trying to hurry to alleviate the wait time. And I would definitely say they had the most stressful job. But know this just plan to get there at 8 and you will ski by 9:30 or 10. Be patient and plan to wait and you will be fine. Ski instructors were very nice and checked on my boys thru out the day after the lessons were over and every time the next day too when we didn’t even have lessons, always willing to give pointers and answer questions. The extra staff very nice. They get to know you quick. Food was good, ordering food online was easy and then you pick up upstairs after they text you. . Lower retail store staff very sweet and friendly. The not allowing to eat indoors was kind of silly blaming on COVID when restaurants everywhere are open for seating. We did have a good time and good compact family place.
Kristin — Google review
Good morning,
I'm trying to plan a family trip (for at least 5 people but up to over a dozen) for 5 nights total (about 3 days skiing), but the customer service here is absolutely horrible.
I have no idea if these employees are regular White American, Mexican, American Indian, etc. But the fact is, these employees will treat you like garbage.
I wish Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort the best; I'll probably end up going to Taos (ski resort) instead.
Maybe in 5 or 10 years I'll reconsider, but at the moment I don't want to be stressed out while on vacation. Frankly, it's a miracle that this ski resort hasn't gone bankrupt.
Feel free to reach out to me (i.e. reply to this comment) if you want to have an honest conversation. Otherwise, take care.
-C.A.B
Charles Buechele — Google review
Inaccurate website description on lessons and unhelpful customer service refused to refund lesson fee that it was unable to honor. Poor/unorganized service with long lines at counter and rental services (no fitting help, had to ran around to ask where to get poles and helmet). Smoking attendant at bunny hill magic carpet that made every customer who ride the magic carpet smell second hand smoke, unavoidable!!!
Website listed that it offered lessons on every levels on every terrain. I had called in advance to understand the lessons level. Even upon booking online, it has selection of ski levels: beginner, intermediate (comfortable on all green terrains), expert (exploring black terrains). I had selected intermediate lesson. However, on the day of lesson, when lesson was about to start, I was informed they don't offer intermediate lessons. Gone back to long line at counter, waited for over an hour to get straighten out. Finally I was told they will refund me, and asked me to write an email to get refund. Half a day gone by, wasted at the ski resort. Response to email for refund was rejected.
review google — Google review
This is the most loving 3 star review I will probably ever give. Friendly employees and great prices, but:
The upper lift was closed due to wind. That eliminates most of the fun stuff.
You have to pay online to order food at the cafeteria. That means you can't pay cash. That's scary. I should not have to provide an email address just to get a cup of coffee.
The chairlifts that were open don't have footrests. One of them didn't even have a bar that you could put down.
The road to get there was pretty cleared which is a plus.
Tom Means — Google review
This is our third year at Sipapu and it is one of our favorite family vacations. We love staying here! The team here is super friendly and their pride in making the guest experience great shows! From Kimberley in the front office, to Jen and Steve who greeted us, to Casey in the ski shop who fixed up my skis when I had issues, to the friendliness of all the lift operators, dining staff, ticket window team, parking team, and maintenance team. Definitely try the homemade fudge in the general store! 5 star experience!
Bobby S — Google review
We stayed at Sipapu for a week in mid-March and skied for six days. Friendly staff and amazing snow. Delicious food in the lodge. I can't believe the value of this mountain. Highly recommended for an affordable family vacation.
The people here are so nice. There was a blizzard dumping a foot plus in one night. A family arrived in the middle of the storm and had a son in a wheelchair. Their car got stuck. The maintenance man (Steve) woke up at 9 or 10 at night to pull the family out of the snow and help them get settled in the middle of the blizzard.
The next day I saw him driving the son to the lift. It's great people like Steve that make Sipapu the ideal destination for a family ski trip.
Philip Arias — Google review
What can I say? Good help is hard to find. I guess the young cashier focused on her phone, no customer service experience, and better off going the extra + miles to the next town for a welcoming experience.
Gary Castillo — Google review
Went on 1/28/24 and this place has gone so downhill. Everything has switched to online and does not work well. While buying my lift ticket, the system claimed I didn’t know how to spell my own name so had to use a fake name to get my pass. The workers are clueless and you can’t buy a ticket from the box office. Had a friend take a bad spill on ice and sprain their mcl and the medic was MIA. Lockers malfunctioned and no one could get their stuff out. Someone was high as a kite on opiates and punched out a window so state police had to come. Do better. Will not return.
Chris N — Google review
Isaac and Patrick over in the rentals/workshop always take such good care of my family and I when we go skiing and snowboarding at Sipapu. They are super friendly and really knowledgeable. No matter what issues we encounter these guys always go above and beyond to help us figure it out so we can have a great time! We really appreciate them! Thanks guys!
Katerina Athena — Google review
A season pass holder bringing the family here for years. Sipapu had been one of our favorite places ski. The slopes are maintained well and the staff are friendly. Unfortunately, the safe family atmosphere has been disappearing. Over the last few years it seems that on weekends the slopes are overrun with unruly high school and college age groups that have little regard for the safety and enjoyment of families with young kids. I yelled at a young male for knocking my kid over while he pushed past people in line to join his friends at the front. He then knocked another kid down as he approached me to show off his rather colorful vocabulary and told me “this is my house watch your back” — all in front of around 50 people and the staff who stood by and did nothing except to allow him to jump on the very next chair. (Feb Fun Fest 2019). Apparently, this person thinks he’s part owner too. Other ski areas would have had that person removed.
Overall, I would like to see better enforcement of posted rules regarding language (still a problem ) in lift lines and slow skiing in beginner areas near the base (especially at the very bottom of Thumper). Lots of runs merge and it is dangerous to allow people to speed through through areas.
Joshua Narlesky — Google review
This is a great smaller ski hill. Good mix of fun runs, and the price can’t be beat. Staff was really helpful! Lodge could have really used a fire to make it more cheery, but all in all, a great place to hit the slopes
Nathaniel Freedman — Google review
We loved the resort. The riverside cabin was awesome. The kids loved the loft.
My son had his first ever lesson with Duane. He absolutely loved his time learning from him.
Staff was super friendly all throughout the resort from parking, store, lodging and lifts.
Eric Jensen — Google review
Fabulous place. Super friendly staff. Casey in the ski shop super helpful. Josie who was everywhere was very friendly & fun. The cafe is very good, their French Toast was sooo good along with a breakfast burrito to power me through a days skiing.
Wonderful beginners spot. I started skiing here late in life at 49 years old. Just returned again at 66. My goal is to come again at 70.
Super affordable! Watch the weather and come after a good 4-6” snow.
Rick Overholt — Google review
Purchased ski lessons and rentals for my family. Arrived at the hill to find that we needed to buy the full day lift ticket as well for each. Went to purchase them but they were “sold out”. The most frustrating part was a was pushed to the side for about an hour while they “figured it out” then came back and said lift passes were sold out. They took my money and said no refunds. Disappointed with this ski hill and will never come back. It’s too bad this is the closest hill to us. I recommend going to Taos. UPDATE: Emailed Sipapu 2 times now and provided receipts with no response. They did sell out. I was told my wife could not do lessons that we paid for because they had no lift tickets left and we needed to buy the lift tickets + the lessons. They did however offer that I go online to buy one of their $1000+ last minute tickets.
Tom Kennedy — Google review
Great service. We were in a hurry heading up and I accidentally booked the wrong night. Front desk was very helpful and worked to get me a room and move my reservation while juggling other requests.
Sara Trautman — Google review
Someone died on the mountain today. Young kids crashing without helmets. Liquor bottles all over the mountain. Drunk skiers riding the lift with me. 20-year-old snowboarders hitting everyone. People bragging about hitting other people right in front of me. This has got to be one of the most unsafe places I've ever been to. Particularly during short weekends with fewer out of state beginners. It was bad. Recklessly bad. All preventable. I never see staff on the runs. Staff should be pulling people's passes, but they are not doing it. Really unsafe for my family. Not worth the cheap price anymore. I have been here so many times, but this was a really bad weekend.
Michael Galaxy — Google review
We stayed in the mobile home and really enjoyed our stay. Sure it is not comparable to a 5-star hotel, but it was simple, clean, everything worked and is close enough to walk to the lifts. It was a good value but understand this is not TSV, Vail or Aspen. If you need that sort of thing, then this is not the place for you to begin with. If you want to have a great time skiing on a budget, spending time together as a family and you can appreciate the rugged beauty of the area, then this may be for you. You would be well advised to bring everything you will need for your stay as the nearest store is 30 minutes away. The kitchen is functional but if you have a few favorite pots/pans or knives, you might want to bring them. The resort wifi is spotty and probably not good for wifi calling, especially if they are busy and there are alot of people on it. AT&T is the only carrier that works here so if you have another carrier, get a burner phone for the week before coming. The t.v. didn't work (or at least there did not appear to be cable or anything), so instead our kids made friends and played outside in the snow like kids used to do. The mountain is small, but the trails are well maintained and great for beginner/intermediate skiers and the staff is welcoming, attentive and caring. There is good sledding in the national forest nearby (which is actually not that easy to find anymore). Get your lift tickets and rentals done online before you come and the process will be easy.
Edward Lentz — Google review
We just got home from 4 nights at Sipapu over spring break so I wanted to write this review while the trip was fresh on my mind. We stayed in rooms 306 and 307 in the Lodge. We're ski-in-ski-out snobs and the Lodge rooms were closest to the lifts. They were also very inexpensive. However, you'll need to bring a cooler because there's no fridge. The TV is set off to the side, bolted to the dresser in a cubby and you can't see the TV from the rest of the room. Weird arrangement. The beds are fine, but there's no table or chairs so we brought a folding table and folding chairs to eat and play cards in the evenings. We ate breakfast and lunch in the room, then ate dinner in the restaurant. The food was surprisingly good and the menu had lots to choose from! Just be sure to order before 5:00.
Please note: if you are taller than 5ft 10 you will NOT be able to sit on the toilet the normal way. It faces the wall and leaves very little leg room. Again, strange design. The shower is tiny (picture a camper shower) and often didn't have any water pressure, only dripped, during the day. We finally called maintenance and they suggested that we not use the shower before 5:00 because the restaurant below us often takes all the water pressure from the third floor. In the evenings, hot water was hit and miss. Which is disappointing when all you want after all long day of skiing is a hot shower. I'm torn because the rooms could be super nice with a remodel, but that would drive prices up.
We saw a group of college guys moving into their lodge rooms on our way out today and agreed that the Lodge rooms are perfect for that demographic. The rooms are cheap, can fit 8 per room, and the college kids aren't paying for fancy amenities that they don't care about. For our family, I think next time we'll try the cabins or duplex with a full kitchen.
The #1 most amazing thing about these Lodge rooms is the location. It's only a few steps to the main lift and in rooms 306 and 307 you have a great view of the lifts and skiers coming down the mountain. The river is right below rooms 306 and 307 (see pic). My teenage boys, husband and I loved the mountain - it's small enough to ski as a group, then split up, then find each other again. And we had cell service the entire time. Rentals the first day took about 20 minutes for all 5 of us. It was a breeze.
Overall, we'll be back!
Jamie Bearden — Google review
This place is relatively inexpensive as compared to say Angle Fire, and you do get what you pay for so be aware. Overall it is a good experience when you finally get to ski. They have enough ski patrol to make sure everyone skis and comes back down safely. So what’s missing as compared to the more expensive places?
The best way to save money is to use as few staffs as possible so expect longer wait at rental and the restaurant. Be aware that all tickets must be ordered on line. The cell service is very slow. The WiFi is free, however, but we needed to ask to find out. To pick up the rentals can take a while there are lines. Furthermore, there is one cafe that offers hot meals and the orders again must be placed on line. My phone had a glitch such that I could not properly enter the credit card info. This is the key problem of doing everything with only the on line option. The the wait for the food was unbearable. It took nearly 2 hrs. My advice is to bring your own food. There are rooms where you can eat or rest but they seem cold so not the most comfortable place to wait for a long period of time.
Our kids are relatively new to skiing. There is a small area for the very beginners. From there you take the lift up a very steep slope to come down on your own. Because of the height and the angle of the slope, it may be daunting for really beginners. Other places we have been to, have more gentle and wider slops which seem more friendly for newer skiers.
As a parent perhaps the most important thing to consider when writing a review is what the kids think. Our kid had beginner lessons at Angle Fire Ski Resort, which he likes. He was scared at Sipapu due to steepness of the slope. But he was ecstatic when finally completed the whole course on his own. He said we must come back again.
East West — Google review
Overall had a fantastic day. There were some small delays getting rental equipment around at the start of the day, but it wasn't a big problem and the staff was very kind. my private ski instructor Jace was extremely helpful!
Franky Begue — Google review
Dirty little run down motel room. No bath towels, only hand towels. Door knob was the only lock. Boogers on walls. Hair on pillows. Room smelled of mildew. One power outlet to charge phone in bathroom. No remote for television. For the price it should've been cleaner and more luxurious especially at a ski resort.
New Mexico River Adventures offers all-inclusive trips that take care of everything from pick-up to drop-off, including rafting and photos, tasting fees, and lunch. The full-day trip in early April provided perfect weather for a mild class 2 & 3 experience with wet suits and splash jackets provided. Guests recommend purchasing NRS Wet Shoes for added comfort.
Our experience with NMRA was amazing! Our family (3 kids ages 11, 9 and 5) did the short Racecourse Half Day. The staff was so friendly during our whole experience - especially Ashley (spelling?). Devin, our guide, was DA MAN. He made the whole ride safe and fun. He kept the kids (and the adults) entertained and informed. I'll recommend to anyone visiting NM!
Alexander Ho — Google review
Rachel and Diego were the best guides ever. They knew their stuff, had great attitudes, and we're genuinely fun to be with all day. If I'm back in town again, I want them as my guides.
We took the all day trip, that wasn't worth it, we probably spent 90 minutes of it stopped waiting for another grouped or on shore eating- great fajitas though. Half day trip would have been fine since I didn't see much gained from the whole day in this case.
Pictures attached were from their photo package, definitely worth it, they did a great job there.
Dave Werkema — Google review
This was our second trip with New Mexico River Adventures. This time was an all day on the Rio Grande. Rachel was a great guide! While the flow rate of the river was low, we didn’t get stuck but a few times and never had to get out to walk. Great lunch along the route! Highly recommend!
Joe Honea — Google review
Came here for a 3 night trip with my college and it was AMAZING!! The guides were so informed and passionate, even after 3 days of really hard work! The food was BEYOND better than I could have imagined for a river trip, literally ate steak on the first night… Needless to say if you want an amazing, beautiful, comfortable, and overall fun-tastic experience out on the water these are the people to go to!! Shoutout to Luke, Baker, Amelia, Auston, and Liv for making this trip so incredible!🙌
franybean 2 — Google review
We had a great time with Austin as our guide for the full day trip with lunch included. We went in early April. The weather was perfect as it wasn’t too hot or too cold. We were provided wet suits and splash jackets which were just what we needed. I would recommend buying NRS Wet Shoes before you go (like wet suit shoes) because our feet would have been cold in the water is if we would have worn just sandals. Austin was pleasant and cooked a great chicken fajita lunch. The full day trip was class 2 & 3 and is very mild. Perfect for any family trip. Highly recommended and very reasonably priced.
Scott Jones — Google review
Overall an awesome trip! We did the recourse kayaking & it was so much fun to be in your own individual kayak! Our guides Rachael & Jo did a great job keeping us safe while allowing us to have the best experience possible. Everything from initially booking to getting our pictures at the end was seamless. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience! Can’t wait to go again!
Brenden Garland — Google review
Had a great half day river run. Ava, our river guide was awesome!!! Had my 7 year old grandson with us and she keeped him calm the hole trip and showed him how to move the raft around. Ava, thank you for a great trip.
Martin Cortez — Google review
What an amazing experience!! We had a great time and made memories to last a lifetime. Our guides were Austin and Ben and both were incredible to say the least! Our safety and safety of the entire group was their priority and the knowledge they share is unmatched!! My son is still talking about Ben! We will spread the word here in Texas and will definitely be back next summer!!
Christy Miller — Google review
My wife and I were so pleased and all our expectations were surpassed on our Racecourse ride this morning. Our guide (I think
Amelia? Sorry) was fun, knowledgeable! Informative and talented. Everything about to trip fro the initial sign up to the leaving of the site was a pleasure. Can’t wait to go back!
Joel Usher — Google review
It was a wonderful experience. My family enjoyed a lot. The staff and special Diego (tour guide) were so nice. Everything was very clean (equipment and place). The organization (transportation, pictures, safety guidelines) and the way that they give you the tour are amazing., I will go again at the end of May. Be ready to have a lot of fun and do exercise. My mom is 70yo and she wants to go again. 😃
Erika Gabauer — Google review
This experience was completely amazing! Our guide, Casey, was so much fun. He was very informative, and even though some in our group were a bit anxious at first, he made sure we were safe and felt at ease, even through an unexpected, sudden torrential downpour with crazy lightning and booming thunder. This was the experience of a lifetime and I cannot wait to do it again! I highly recommend NM River Adventures and if you get Casey as your guide consider yourself blessed!!!
Cindy Rybarczyk — Google review
I had some trepidation about this trip & I had a blast. As a relatively fit, (not uber fit) women in her mid 60's I wasn't sure to was for me ... It was great. A lot of care, (including safety is clearly very important to theM) a lot of fun and a great first rafting experience. My friend and I did the 'racecourse' run. And a special shout out to our raft guide EMILY, very efficient caring and fun. Great job New Mexico River Adventures
Patricia Mitchell — Google review
My 3 year old and I did the family float. It was super cute. Just a chill ride. Only complaint is the ants everywhere at drop in and out. Could they spray the area or something?
My older kids and hubby did the race course. They loved it!!
Casey and Mattie were our guides. The best!!! ❤️
Carie Boatright — Google review
We loved our rafting trip today! The equipment seemed all in good repair, the lunch was amazing, our guide (Devin) was concerned about our safety at all times, and we felt well prepared as we entered each set of rapids. Everything was done so well by everyone we encountered. Even the pictures offered at the end were great pics that we felt were well priced and not outrageous. Would 10/10 recommend!!!
Jody Lyon — Google review
Dan was our rafting guide and he made sure we were safe and had fun paddling down the Rio Grande race course. Everything was so organized including wetsuits, waterproof shell and helmets.
Charlene Kim — Google review
Amazing trip from start to finish! Brenden is wonderful guide...we had 1 person who had never rafted before and was really nervous. He did great making sure she felt comfortable yet giving the rest of us a fun trip down the river. We've done trips with this outfit before and they are as awesome as ever ..from the front desk to the shuttle driver...they all have great attitudes and just really want your trip to be the best it can be!
Teresa Pace — Google review
This was my first rafting trip. Went with my two adult sons and had a blast. Dan L was our guide, and he was very professional and fun. The lunch was really good. The only critique we would
have is that we love pictures from more than just one point in the trip. But, overall, it was an excellent day. We’ll be back.
Michele Stinson — Google review
A friend and I did the all day box canyon trip on 4/29/24. Jake was a perfect guide: supportive, personable, and expert with the boat. He and the rest of the folks at New Mexico River Adventure shared the experience with us on a beautiful day on a beautiful river, in a beautiful canyon. All the equipment was first rate and they even managed to feed us a warm and tasty lunch with stuff they brought on the raft. I had never rafted before and always wanted to. This is the place.
Joe O'Neil — Google review
I think that was the most fun thing we’ve ever done living here in NM for 8 years!!
Rafting was not the only fun part. Our leader was also so great! He gave us all the info that we were surrounded with. My 7 yo had a BLAST!!
All the staff were just so wonderful! I wish I was living close by so I could do it way more often!
I just can not tell good enough about them!
ayşe uzuner — Google review
We have rafted the river a couple times but New Mexico River Adventures was the best! Our guide Dan was very informative not only about our safety but about what we seeing along the way. He made our water adventure fun! I will definitely return.
Ghost Ranch is a popular tourist attraction located in Abiquiu, New Mexico. It was the site of Georgia O'Keeffe's other house and is known for its breathtaking scenery that served as an inspiration for her work. The ranch offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area on horseback or through landscape tours guided by art experts. In addition to horseback riding, there are also anthropology and paleontology museums, three trails to hike and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Lovely! We just came here to do the kitchen mesa trail and it was beautiful. The drive here is also very scenic.
Jessica Wojtasek — Google review
Georgia O'Keefe painted here one can see her inspiration at all points of the compass. We were day visitors and had a wonderful time and found great photo ops. Highly recommended.
Thad Zajdowicz — Google review
I love Ghost Ranch, haven't stayed for a few years and it is so special. I usually stay on the mesa and the rooms are lovely. The food is very satisfying, especially as all you have to do is show up, no prep or clean up. There are lots of trails and beautiful light.
Margaret Shumaker — Google review
I had an amazing 4 nights at Ghost Ranch in mid March. The scenery and hiking was incredible. Exploring the and facilities on site, getting to know the history of the place from Native Americans, to cattle rustlers, to Georgia OKeefe, the paleontology museum with Graham (shout out!), all fantastic experiences. The welcome centre staff were great - Beth and Eileen, couldn’t have been more helpful. The dining hall was great - getting to know fellow guests over delicious meals, comparing notes on hikes and experiences…I really didn’t want to leave, and will definitely be back with family and friends.
Paul Jones — Google review
The trail ride at Ghost Ranch is in my opinion the best way to see this beautiful scenery.
The wranglers are very knowledgeable and friendly and the horses are well trained.
The trail guide Dustin was very nice and offered interesting information about the history of Ghost Ranch. If you visit Ghost Ranch you must take a trail ride! Its a great way to spend some time!
Thanks Ghost Ranch and Wranglers for offering this opportunity to enjoy the horses and explore the Ranch.
Will definitely be back to ride again!
Adele Yazzie — Google review
Most beautiful place on earth! Photo opportunities abound, there are tours going daily, but you can see what you are looking for everywhere! History of the ranch is plentiful, and photo opportunities are abundant. There are public restrooms and places to sit by the ranch house. Great views! You can stay as long as you like. Don’t shop the trading post, they are really unfriendly.
Candy Hucklebee — Google review
Amazing day trip from Santa Fe. It's quite the drive but when you get there your breath will be taken away.
I just couldn't get enough of the views. Great place for photographers, artists, nature lovers, and hikers. Admirers of Georgia O'Keeffe will be rewarded with a feast for the eyes and senses as well as an understanding of inspiration for her artwork.
Virginia Huffman — Google review
Another wonderful horseback riding experience at Ghost Ranch! The wrangler for my trail ride was Colton and he did a great job of making everyone feel welcome on the ride as well as sharing the history of the ranch. The horseback ride is the absolute best way to see the ranch and experience this magnificent landscape. The horses are all well mannered and the wranglers are always professional and friendly!
Ghost Ranch will always be a favorite destination! If you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip Ghost Ranch is a must see and the trail rides are an excellent choice to view the scenery.
K E — Google review
Visited mainly for the location, the O'Keeffe connection, and the paleontology museum. Going here coupled with the O'Keeffe museum in town was a good combo, getting to be in the location that inspired so much of her art, and learning how Ghost Ranch history is even more than just that connection. The paleontology museum was cool! Small but really neat, and a must stop if you have a dinosaur lover in your group. Honestly even just seeing the location is breathtaking enough. Definitely stop by if you have time.
Colleen G — Google review
My friends and I stayed 1 night in the dormitory at ghost ranch and it was the best value I think I’ve ever gotten at a hotel. The ranch definitely isn’t luxury but the rooms and shared bathroom were nice and clean. And in exchange you get to stay in one of the prettiest places in America where you can walk a few minutes to a dozen hikes with hardly anyone else on the trail (in February).
The staff was so kind and obviously cared about us having a great time. Food was included in our stay and the buffet tasted great and included options that accommodated both gluten free and vegetarian guests. The highlight was obviously the hiking and exploring the whole campus, and it’s hard to find anywhere like ghost ranch (especially at that price).
Margaret Seikel — Google review
So much fun. The ranch hands at ghost ranch were awesome to listen to and talk to. Great voice that the whole group can hear. The tour was fun even for a guy that is a little stiff and has never ridden a horse before. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a horse back or art history experience.
greg montgomery — Google review
Great place with some interesting history & fun activities. There are a multitude of hiking trails with varying difficulty. Chimney Rock is the most popular & its pretty short too. There’s a few places mentioning Georgia O’Keefe & her time spent there. You can even stay in one of her cabins. The ranch has been featured in many movies & tv shows, documentaries, music videos & even advertisements for Ariat & clothing & products. There’s neat history with the fossils found there as well. The library was the old Johnson&Johnson house so the architecture is pretty cool. There’s also educational programs & retreats during the summer, but not while I was visiting.
David Burman — Google review
My husband and I live in New Mexico and yesterday we took a little day trip to the Ghost Ranch. The scenery is incredibly beautiful and really well worth the trip but the state of Ghost Ranch is unfortunately in bad disrepair. The amount of revenue that must come through Ghost Ranch must be really substantial so one has to wonder where all this money is going. There is visible clutter and detritus everywhere and all the cabins are in terrible shape, it’s hard to believe that anyone would feel comfortable staying there. So many incredible things could be done with this space.. plant some cacti gardens or flowers near the cabins, clear up the scrap metal, move away the garbage truck parked near the trails, it’s almost as if there is no aesthetic vision or care put into any square footage on the grounds.I am sure Georgia O Keefe would be most saddened to see the state of Ghost Ranch as it has fallen into complete disrepair. Come to see the beautiful and incredible scenery, learn about the history and then maybe go home to your clean house and save $150
Phoebbe@aol.com mcgrane — Google review
The scenery is absolutely gorgeous and the staff is very knowledgeable about the history, wildlife, vegetation and geological formations. Service provided by the Welcome Center, dining hall, and staff are outstanding. As a photographer I'm most grateful for the advice provided by Jeanelle at the entrance gate. She was very helpful in providing suggestions for specific locations where I would find terrific scenic views.
David Hood — Google review
Amazing views. Worth the trip.
Road in was quite rough watch for pot holes (I was in a car), rooms were meager, but clean, bed was fine. If I go again, I’d take a coffee maker to use in the room.
The bad: Cafeteria dinner was sad, borderline horrible. Very limited selection, meat dumpling was room temp, I was concerned I might get sick. We had to sift though several plates to find ones that appeared clean.
The good: Breakfast on the other hand was great, hot and plenty of choices. Dishes appeared clean.
Staff was great all around.
John Allen — Google review
The landscape and energy of Georgia O’Keeffe here is incredible, but, BE WARNED… make your trip a day visit with a landscape tour! Sketch the Morning with Susan was beautiful, and she was kind and knowledgeable - but Ghost Ranch’s accommodations and facilities are wretched. There was a lot of poop spattered on the bathroom wall and junk (like old broken furniture, broken screens/windows and general garbage) scattered all around the property. I can’t imagine anyone feeling comfortable staying here.
We appreciate minimalism and limited amenities but the website is deceptive in their description of the accommodations. It seems the facilities have not been updated or maintained in decades. The place isn’t rustic, it’s GROSS. My family and I now joke about abandoned-looking places we would RATHER stay at than Ghost Ranch.
The Presbyterian Church, who owns the property but stopped funding it a few years ago, should be ashamed. Georgia O’Keeffe would be heartbroken to see what became of Ghost Ranch.
HIGHLY recommend going a few miles down the road to the beautiful Georgia O’Keeffe Museum next to the Abiquiu Inn and taking her Abiquiu house tour.
Cynthia Oldham — Google review
I grew up coming here for two weeks every summer and while it has changed a little bit it is still my favorite place in the world. Amazing classes where you can learn how to paint, weld, write or adventure around the area to see some incredible views and hikes. Can’t recommend this place enough!
Rachel Hoffman — Google review
The best part of visiting Ghost Ranch was the drive from and back to Santa Fe!
With all the hype I heard about the ranch I was disappointed! It needs a lot of updating. The displays, videos and directional signage is stale and outdated.
Granted the views of the amazing mountain ranges surrounding the property are phenomenal but that was about it.
Ed Pizza — Google review
Beautiful scenery and unmatched solitude. We visited on a day trip from Santa Fe and loved our visit. Access to the ranch is $10 per person but provides access to several miles of well maintained hiking trails and the Ghost Ranch property which includes museums, a library, and several outdoor areas to picnic/rest.
B G — Google review
I got stuck going to Monastery of Christ in the desert. Luckily a couple brought me to Ghost Ranch. They immediately offered me food and a room at a discounted rate because I couldn't get towed out by anyone in the area. The next morning maintenance drove me to the road and towed me out.
The sheer hospitality oozing out of every crevice of the ranch is amazing both from the staff and the few people I had the pleasure of speaking to at dinner are incredibly friendly. Speaking of dinner, it's served buffet style in a dining hall and the food was amazing! There was also this mango enhanced water that was incredible.
The room was cozy and had a beautiful painting by O'Keefe and there's a ton of facilities and beautiful sights. From my conversations with the front desk they also have concerts - sort of like a mini Woodstock, I think the next in September. Definitely something I will make every attempt to visit!
Edward Morante — Google review
Tour guide on landscape tour was wonderful. Accommodations were okay,, and meals were decent, given cafeteria style set up. Fun patrons led to interesting conversations at meals.
Cindy Clement — Google review
I loved staying in Ghost Ranch while visiting the O'Keefe home in Abiquiu. You can do WONDERFUL hikes in the ranch. I also enjoyed the library (open 24 h!) and the friendly community atmosphere. Restaurant included with the acomodation. Great, calm place for a retreat in low-season months (I was in April).
Oriol Sierra — Google review
My husband and I recently stayed at Ghost Ranch for a couple's retreat with Ellen and Mike Johas Teener. This was the best workshop I have ever taken in my life and will help me become a more loving human. Ghost Ranch was stunning. The rooms, service, and food were wonderful and spectacular. What a blessing - forever thank you.
Sarita Streng — Google review
Being from canones n.m and ghost ranch being my front yard it's the most beautiful area on earth that must be why it's been used for so many films. I was recently in Chandler Arizona and seen a restaurant named ghost ranch the thing that really made it catch my eye is because they have 100% stolen your emblem and name logo... Major copyright that they are doing there:(
Brandon Serrano — Google review
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280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA
Remote retreat dating from 1916, offering outdoor pools & a mud bath, plus dining & hiking trails.
Recently stayed overnight at Ojo Caliente in one of the vintage Airstream trailers after travelling out from Australia. Absolutely loved it!!
The overall impression that I got was that the feeling of quality and luxury and the relaxation offered was more than what I was paying for. From the hospitality of the staff to the quality of the coffee and bed linen in the rooms it was all top level.
The pools are something else too with a highlight being relaxing in the lithium pool looking at the stars with the cliff face lit up behind us as the back drop.
After relaxing in the pools for two days, we left feeling great! Thoroughly recommend.
Rob D — Google review
Not what it used to be. Just finished a 3 day stay. The whisper policy isn't enforced. Loud conversations everywhere. Even the silent pool had loud conversations happening regularly. The people that walk around with the whisper signs seem to be zoned out. I got a massage (which was excellent) and for the last hour of the massage all I heard was yelling from the Cliffside Pools - at 8pm. Rooms aren't serviced, which is okay unless you're lacking something. Three times over the course of 12 hours I asked for more coffee and fire starters, and for the ashes to be cleaned out of the fireplace. The ashes were overflowing and I was concerned about them spilling into the floor. Three times they said they'd send someone but no one ever came. Front desk staff all seem to be new. One afternoon I was doing yoga in my room when a couple who'd just checked in walked into my room with a key. They'd been checked into my room by mistake. It was quite a surprise for all of us. Nor are the staff knowledgeable about the hiking trails you can access from the property. My last day after I checked out I stayed for a couple of hours but was told there wouldn't be any robes available for 1.5 hours, and it was a really cold day.
Massage and food were excellent. The rooms are great minus the service.
I expect more from a place where everything costs the highly inflated spa prices which I'm more than happy to pay if the experience is worth it. Not so any longer at Ojo Caliente, which is unfortunate. It used to be well worth the cost.
Wendy Taylor Wampler — Google review
We are staying at Ojo in the RV park because I am here for a nursing contract & this resort is actually reasonable in price for the RV side of things... the mosquitoes over here are horrible tho- I guess because we are by the river... but wow... they swarm you. We haven't enjoyed the springs yet, I work crazy hours & they only offer day passes- i would love to go soak for an hour & relax after working saving lives in the ER, but I can't see spending 40 bucks for an hour in a hot tub. The restaurant was very good, ate lunch there yesterday & the grounds of the spa are beautiful. Staff are very friendly & helpful.
Felicia Magness — Google review
What a magical and wonderful place to relax. The pools are stellar, the service was impeccable, and the rooms and amenities were great. We stayed in a renovated trailer, which was a good choice for our budget. It was well-appointed and had everything we needed. The pools range from 100-107 and there’s also a cooler pool that was 85. Perfect for doing a circuit of cool and hot. Lots of places to lay down in a hammock or lounge chair and rest but lots of “seat savers” who park their belongings on a chair and then disappear all day doing various pools, massages, and even go back to their room or get food. This is my one critique- well, maybe two. The pool areas are meant to be “whisper quiet” but folk’s definitely don’t whisper. If Ojo upped their game in any way it would be to create a “no seat saving” policy and enforce the Whisper policy. Other than that, it was wonderful and worth every penny. Definitely going back and renting a Posi suite.
Stephanie Morningstar — Google review
This was our second time visiting Ojo Caliente. The first time was 8 years ago and left such a lasting impression. The pools are so very lovely, and clean. Truly healing waters.
We stayed in a Cliff Side suite (#49). Unfortunately, the room was not clean. The floors were beyond dirty. The baseboards looked like they had not been cleaned in months, and there were many stains on the walls. This was too bad because the room itself was gorgeous, and the private outdoor tub was such a luxury. I ended up sweeping and wiping down the floor and rest of the room. Not sure if this was a one off, or a more consistent issue. I think Ojo should focus on their core products instead of expanding. I am sure they are experiencing staffing issues like many.
That’s the reason for four stars. We’ll be back though! Hopefully a cleaner room next time, please get that addressed.
Lastly - The wine bar was lovely and the service provided by Jacob was stellar.
Kelly Plas — Google review
I have had Ojo Caliente on my list of places to visit for a long time and it was worth the wait! I just stopped for a day soak, but the entire property is beautiful. The driveway pulling up is really lovely and well maintained.
I've visited Ojo Santa Fe several times and always enjoyed my time there. Ojo Caliente is a very different and equally WONDERFUL experience. I really enjoyed all the different pools and different temperatures. It was really special that the tubs are nestled so close to the hillside. The mud section was especially fun, but it was a little too chilly to "bake in the sun" as the instructions say - so I'll be back to try the mud again on a day that I can bake in the sun. 👍🏻
I really appreciate how the staff consistently remind guests that Ojo Caliente is a peaceful place. I loved soaking there and can't wait to return!
Ashly Ulrich — Google review
This place its beautiful ,
Staff are very nice and helpful. Front desk housekeeper, spa, restaurant, everyone so nice in here. They make our day so comfortable.
Bathrooms at the hot springs so clean with showers shampoo, conditioner, hot water, towels, lockers.
My favorite pool was the mud bath my skin feels so soft , all pools have particular thing that you will love. Its not crowded.
This place its perfect getaway for couples
We definitely going back
Cristy Gar z a — Google review
Great peaceful and relaxing environment. The rv park bathrooms were definitely lacking compared to the rest of the facilities on the resort property. The restaurant had great food, slow service but cozy atmosphere. One bartender was great, Mia, I think but the other was not. She seemed overly busy and didn’t have time to take care of our food that came out wrong. The pools were great, a little hot for early September, I wish there was a medium temp pool, one that was a little warmer than the big pool. One last minor comment, I wish all the staff had their shirts tucked in for a more respectable look. Overall, loved the atmosphere and landscaping!
Jill Conlin — Google review
This is my favorite mineral springs facility as the setting is mystic and beautiful, the pools are well kept, the locker rooms are clean and the staff are helpful. So why I’m giving it a 4-star instead of 5-star? That’s because of their prices. $65 weekend day pass excluding taxes is simply outrageous (he three of us paid just over $200!) They seem to keep raising their prices which is unfortunate. I already said that I love this hot springs facility but please don’t let greed overcome the serenity of the experience.
Ali Imansepahi — Google review
These springs are amazing! So relaxing and the staff’s hospitality at Ojo Caliente, makes the visits so worthwhile. We had the pleasure to meet the general manager, Carlos Martinez. Carlos’s main objective is to ensure the most professional customer service to each guest. Their staff is so service oriented and go out of their way to make sure all guests are we’ll accommodated. The spas are clean and so relaxing. I will forever visit at least twice per year.
Marty Galvan — Google review
The best hot springs in the United States in my opinion/experience. There is a resort here to stay at, a little restaurant and the hot spring pools. Very relaxing and well needed for after a hike or walking all day. Has plenty of variety pools to relax in, steam and sauna room and a lukewarm pool. There are women's/men's changing rooms/showers(including soap, conditioner and vody wash)/bathrooms. Pool towels and lockers are included with purchase of stay or day stay which is about $45 per person. Unfortunately there is no ice sauna or cold pool to bath in to cool off. Coming around 4 after is perfect especially cause the sun goes away soon. Will not let children in this is not a kids friendly place. There is also a waiver you have to sign before coming in. A little gift shop is on the side. Overall 10/10 experience would definitely recommend it to anyone coming to NM.
D — Google review
My husband and I recently had the pleasure of staying at this wonderful hotel that offered a truly distinctive experience. The rooms in this hotel were spacious, comfortable and quaint. We stayed in a Cliffside Suite and appreciated the private outdoor sitting area with a soaking tub that faced the cliffs. The spa area with the mineral pools was amazing. Each one was unique and we enjoyed trying each one at our own pace. Dinner at Savor Restaurant on the property exceeded our expectations and was delicious. We recommend this hotel for the unique mineral pools, beautiful property, comfy rooms and excellent restaurant.
Merry Stompins — Google review
First mineral springs experience for us; we went for an afternoon. Relaxing and enjoyable after initially being given 4 lockers that either wouldn't open or were already full of others personal items and navigating a very over-crowded women's locker area. The staff worked hard to help with the busy situation. I enjoyed the mud area, and the iron pool the most. The hammocks are a nice touch, it's really pretty.
Valerie Meyer — Google review
Stayed there this weekend for the 3rd time after driving 6 hours each way from Denver. Booked a room in their newer “Inn” property as the main property was sold out.
Got in at 11:30pm on Friday, was greeted at the front desk promptly, given my room, and drove back up the street to the Inn. We unloaded our bags, and at first glance the room seemed nice enough, but very small with a weird layout. It was a handicapped accessible room. I do not, and I mean DO NOT care for those rooms, for several personal reasons, but the big 2 are that my girlfriend enjoys taking baths, which is impossible in an accessible room and was guaranteed in the reservation, and next that my mother recently passed and was wheelchair bound for the last 6 months of her life. The room smelled exactly like the hospital rooms I have recently spent entirely too much time in.
Went to the front desk the next morning. Met the manager Carlos and asked him if we could go sit off to the side to have a quick chat about something. Told him the whole story. There was nothing he could have done to be any nicer, more considerate and more understanding. I wish all my friends were as nice to me as he was. Inasmuch as there wasn’t another room to move me to, he bent over backwards to make the rest of my weekend go perfectly. He should be a corporate trainer teaching proper customer service. I’m in the restaurant business and know from experience what it takes to provide exceptional customer service and he is the definition of it.
The place is amazing. The facilities and amenities are amazing. The restaurant is literally world class. We had 2 breakfasts and a dinner there and I wish I could go back every week. Reasonably priced, and the food is nothing short of magnificent. From appetizers to dessert and everything in between, right down to the best brewed iced tea I’ve ever had.
So, I don’t recommend the Inn if you can swing the main property, but otherwise there’s nothing not to like about this place. And the 90 minute massage was fantastic! Such a great place to visit! It gets the highest recommendations from me!
David Frieder — Google review
Pretty nice spot. Customer service was great, locker rooms were nice as well. Showers have shampoo & conditioner. You get a locker and unlimited towels, access to all 7 pools from 10am-10pm all on the day pass for only $45.. worth the trip!
Bergen Ahrens — Google review
My husband and I have been here several times now and try to come down at least once a quarter. It is so peaceful, well maintained, and incredibly relaxing. There are a good number of pools at different temperatures. The restaurant has wonderful food as well. Looking forward to many more stays!
Sarah Mesko — Google review
Excellent hot spring and spa service! Nice, clean room in a relaxed environment. I was especially impressed with the practitioner who did my skin brushing, mud wrap/herbal bath treatment (in 2014) as it is a thoughtfully laid out service with some wonderful elements. The common mud area is a cool aspect and I love our rooms was less expensive with only a half bath. The locker room shower was great for our purposes that weekend! Very savvy to offer that & make it more affordable.
Amy Abigail — Google review
The location is great...very peaceful and serene! The hot spring pools are nice, and each pool has it's own ambiance. I really appreciate that the hot spring areas are a whisper zone to keep the loud, annoying people in check. The spa and bathhouse are nice and modern facilities. We stayed in the historic lodge and the experience was very mixed. The rooms were comfortable, including the beds. However, it is VERY loud with very squeaky doors constantly slamming shut and people walking by and talking loudly. I HIGHLY recommend ear plugs. No shower in room and our bathroom door wouldn't shut. Hope you are not shy. The restaurant was good, but a couple key misses also meant a mixed experience. Food and service were good overall. Small dining room and a large group of intoxicated people gave it a poor ambiance. No small plates were provided for the appetizers or meal making them a bit awkward to eat. My New York cheesecake with "fresh seasonal fruit" came with 2 blueberries and 1 strawberry.
J D — Google review
Amazing spot to relax , soak and have glass of wine with decent food.
It’s little bit pricey for weekends $65 for day soaking! I have here 2 times and every time I had a fantastic time. Both times we came with friends from out of state and they loved it. I like their restaurant too specially their Green chili fries! Bar has good variety of wines but no hard liquor! I give them 4.5 ⭐️! And will go back soon.
Alireza T Afshari — Google review
Excellent place to relax and unwind the different pools were great to sit down and relax. The rooms were accommodating and clean. Perfect weekend getaway for couples! Restaurant was great, bartender could use a little help as she was running around flustered and was very short with patrons (might help to have a second) Did not ruin the experience but did make my wife upset when we had to deal with the same flustered bartender two nights in a row.
I highly recommend this place, it’s a good place to get away for the busy day to day, put the phone down and relax.
Brian Melton — Google review
Amazing experience! Beautiful location. We just did the day pass but it still felt so luxurious. They stay open until 10pm and we actually preferred going at night because it felt more relaxing. Will have to come back to stay at the resort itself. There were so many different options between different mineral pools, dry and wet saunas. Definitely coming back to try the mud bath and the restaurant next time!
Barbi Bunting — Google review
I absolutely enjoyed my visit to the springs. I highly recommend getting a day pass. It's very affordable and a great way to spend an afternoon. I absolutely enjoyed my dinner of pork loin and sweet potato. The potatoes were creamy melt in your mouth, and the pork was perfectly seasoned. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the springs in the evening. It's a great way to watch the stars, and I was able to enjoy several of the springs all to myself. Security staff were very helpful in identifying the individual who hit my car and ran off. I highly recommend and look forward to visiting again!
Joe Kondziola — Google review
Visited the spa for a soak day during a New Mexico adventure and it was perfect! This place strive to ensure that its environment is nothing less than tranquil, quiet, and relaxing. The descriptions for the different natural mineral pools are great, the food at the restaurant affiliated with the spa is top quality, and there are amazing trails all around the property as well. If you ever find yourself in the northern section of New Mexico, then you MUST visit this spot!!
Shwallie — Google review
Very easy to get to with helpful staff who made check in easy and fast. Very clean dressing rooms. Large warm pool and many hot pools most hot pools were 102 or 103 degrees . Scenery was outstanding. One pool is quite for meditation and had Indian flute music playing softly. They have RV camping, and rooms. They have a restaurant as well. If you are looking for a high end hot springs with a first class spa this is the place.
jerry clower — Google review
Magical. I wish to be back, right now. Nice rooms (although I’d love a rug by the bed cuz the concrete floors are cold, porous and chalky). You come for the waters and I couldn’t be more thankful for my one night stay there. The drive out is beautiful too.
They were a little short-staffed, so some of the rooms weren’t ready right at 3pm. I witnessed my fair share of extra-enlightened old white ladies being absolute Karens to the front desk staff. Pretty funny for how lovely this place is — how the staff obviously go above and beyond to make things really nice. I also really appreciated how sweet the servers were at the restaurant and wine bar. Go with an open heart and let the water take away your burdens.
Emily Overstreet — Google review
The hot spring pools were the best! The rooms in the “historic” bldg connected to the restaurant was that of jail cell contained a bed and a bathroom. The charge is about $270 and some change in end March 2024. The justification was it’s an “historical” bldg. The cottages are cute on the outside but didn’t offer hot water in the morning to shower. I’m not sure if that was a one time incident or if that occurs often. That’s was a $270 and change charge as well. The little curtains didn’t offer coverage to dress or take a cold shower. Felt unsafe as the back door only lock by old chain. Also, took heat a while to kick in so I slept on full layered clothing. Wasn’t the best experience. I would book the double queen bed rooms as those seem to be the best rooms. I would’ve booked these rooms. However, none were available at the time.
polcpg — Google review
We came here a couple years ago to celebrate our anniversary and this time we were excited to revisit and enjoy a soak on our long roadtrip home after seeing the solar eclipse. Pools were a little dirty, Long human hairs floating around, and the bathrooms were out of toilet paper and hand soap/lotion. I think this place needs to lower their prices or step it up with staff, cleaning and cooking. The restaurant also reflected a very poor attention to detail.
Yolanda Curtis — Google review
Ojo Caliente provided a much-needed rest day during our ski trip to Taos. I got a 50-minute massage from Brandie and she was exceptional. She focused in on all the right spots and left me feeling much better than when I walked in. Highly recommend her if you're looking to book a massage during your stay! The pools were great and I loved the variety. The terrace pool was my favorite. Definitely a very relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Highly recommend!
Caroline Kemp — Google review
Please staff up so that the pools can be kept quiet.
Ojo is such a special place but this past time many guests were loudly talking and the environment was more party than relaxation.
Also please clarify that the Inn is a 7 minute walk from the property rather than on site. We were confused on arrival.
Annie was a fantastic server at the Artisan. So kind and attentive.
Mitch Hendrick — Google review
Fantastic experience at Ojo Caliente Spa! Such a unique and unforgettable time. Would highly recommend to everyone. There's even nice hammocks to lounge and listen to music or read in. It does get a bit crowded sometimes. It's beautiful at night with the stars in the pool truly majestic. The electronic lockers are a little confusing but super secure. If any feedback at all its expensive for sure. And they used to have a punch card like 10th visit free they should do that again. And maybe bring a rubber mat outside for barefoot people and one of the ice water containers outside would be wonderful too!
Dane Martel — Google review
I love it here & will for sure return but will share why I’m unable to give all 5 stars.
The hot springs are lovely. The setting is just beautiful.
The spa where we received services is also lovely as were the service providers.
We stayed the night for the 1st time. Our room was fine. Good enough. Our shower was gross. We didn’t use it and opted to use the locker room shower instead which says enough. I’m okay with everything in the room being on the older side but the tile in the shower was very obviously not cleaned regularly.
The mini-split heating unit was malfunctioning so we were cold. The front desk couldn’t switch our room and told us they would bring us extra blankets that never came.
I will for sure come back to enjoy the spa and springs :)
Taos Plaza is a lovely public plaza with many craft shops and cafes, as well as a relaxed atmosphere. The plaza is located in the heart of Taos, which has a rich history and cultural scene. The scenic drive from Santa Fe is breathtaking, and the changing vegetation with altitude is amazing.
Free parking behind the plaza!
Lots of small soups filled with art and craft, restaurants and coffee shops.
Less of a buzz compared to Santa Fe but also less of a tourist trap.
The scenic drive from Santa Fe is breathtaking. Changing vegetation with altitude and which side of the mountains you're on. From high desert to green and lush to Alpine.
Oliver Zauner — Google review
This is a fabulous location to walk around and explore. The buildings set against the blue sky is gorgeous. The feeling of the place is exotic and historical at once, and also sad.
I won’t go into detail on the history but it is heavy to walk around and know how we treated some cultures and that that treatment continues through today.
Dale Burks — Google review
What a great fun place with great shops. Had a blast! Love Taos NM.
RTM — Google review
Small square, handful of shops around the square. The central square was under construction, so nothing to comment on there. There are some decent little shops around the square. It was ok to see, not sure I would make a trip for it again.
Glen Maylone — Google review
Great place to shop gifts and picturesque scenic , area is great and have ton of food option .
This shopping complex is like “Pueblo meets modern” place.
Area market around this place to also good .
Ashish Mishra — Google review
This was a nice place to see, and walk around.
Michael Fasse — Google review
So, you know, I don't give one star ratings without serious thought... I was SAD to shop here. I had been here YEARS AGO, and had consistently great experiences. This time, I walked through the plaza shops and found that 98% of the people working the businesses had the personality of a WET NOODLE. I was actually looking to spend some money and was either ignored completely or placated. A greeting, or eye contact goes a long way. One young lady in a store was reading a book and NEVER LOOKED UP to see me or anything. Must have been a good read! Of ALL the shops, there are TWO I would consider returning to and spending some money. One on the north east corner across from the restaurant that offers museum quality items and the other on the south side of the plaza that sells rocks and minerals, they get 5 stars and will see me again. Hoping to write a better review next time:(
Penny Athena — Google review
Easy walk around to visit the shops. Some renovation work going on and a few empty shops.
Patrick — Google review
Spent the Winter Solstice Christmas shopping at the Taos Plaza. I love the shops and convenience. Shout out to op. cit. books, my favorite used/new bookstore anywhere, and Chokola chocolate shop. And always love World Cup Coffee.
Rusty Connor — Google review
Stop here for parking, it is mettering parking, but my meter doesn't work. Easy walk to most museums and stores. Free parking available aling rt 64 and at the Kit Carson park with restrooms.
Natha B — Google review
Beautiful little town. Architectural wise, it’s the same like most other NM old town. The town is full of Indian jewelry. It’s like a tourist trap to lure them in to buy. Couple nice coffee shops and stands. It’s a good town to walk around if the weather is nice.
Tin Nguyen — Google review
Beautiful place, would highly recommend seeing this. Felt very safe. Street and walkways were a little uneven so that's just a FYI. Beautiful things for sale. Really enjoyed it
Desiree Kunihiro — Google review
If local shops, history and some great little cafes and dining spots are your thing … spend the day at Taos Plaza to get some good walking in. Very walkable and nice learning for insight how the town of Taos came to be.
Betsy MM — Google review
Happened upon this funky little shopping center when I happened upon Taos on a random road trip. Fun times and the car show that was occurring upon my arrival made it even more of an impressive backdrop! Quite the collection of ancient vehicles as you can see from pictures. Go here if you want that good ol' stereotypical southwestern shopping vibe for sure.
TheLeakingGenius — Google review
Once a beautiful location to visit. Now a dump with about 1/3 of business empty in the plaza. Taos used to have so much character and ambiance, especially the plaza. Now it's just a notch above Espanola (sorry, Espanola). Run down locals hate anything that improves the area. Had someone try and build a decent hotel a few years back, they vandalized his business. You would think with the reputation Taos has they would have good hotels. We've stayed in a few there and again mediocre at best. What's going on Taos? You were once the darling of the state now just a run down highway stop. Love NM Just disappointed in what Taos has become. Long time NM resident....
Taos Pueblo, an ancient settlement belonging to the Taos-speaking Puebloan tribe, is located about a mile north of modern-day Taos, New Mexico. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in America and features twin five-story adobe complexes situated on either side of Rio Pueblo de Taos against the stunning Sangre de Cristo mountains. These buildings are believed to have been completed by 1450 AD and serve as a prime example of ancient Pueblo architecture.
4.5
(3111)
New Mexico, USA
I'll never travel to Breckenridge without this trip planner again
The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a remarkable bridge in America that stretches over the Rio Grande Gorge, measuring an impressive 650 feet long. It is situated near the Greater World Earthship Community, where self-sustaining homes made from recycled materials and earth can be found. These homes are both eco-friendly and stylishly designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings on Taos mesa.
Cool area. Do not attempt to walk on the bridge if you have a fear of heights. You are really high up. There is a lot of movement when big trucks drive across the bridge. Great views!
JW Winfrey — Google review
Lovely view. Went in December so it was chilly. I've been to the Rift Valley in Kenya and this is a smaller version but still worth a look. Not much parking and the walk to the bridge is along a narrow dirt track. Local drivers dont slow down.
David Gilbank — Google review
This is really just a bridge, you stop before or after it and walk to be on the sidewalk part that over looks the gorge. It was pretty awesome. The road coming from Santa Fe was sketchy for a bit, really steep, narrow, and dirt, but we made it in our minivan. The bridge has cars going over it, and when a semi drive over it, the whole thing was vibrating. Kind of terrifying but so cool too!
Leslie M — Google review
The gorge was beautiful. It wasn't overcrowded, but I was surprised at how many people actually were there. If you aren't able to climb on rocky terrain and over a small ledge, you may want to park at the other end of the bridge and not at the parking area. in the parking area, there is restrooms and picnic tables. It would be a great place for a family photo or senior photos.
Amy Miles — Google review
It's worth stopping after you drive over the bridge. You can walk across the bridge to the center for some breathtaking views. This is definitely not for someone who has a fear of heights since you are looking down into a very deep gorge for sure!
Trisha Appel — Google review
Beautiful! Truly amazing place. We drove over the plateau from the gorge. There are many hiking trails and amazing views! The road is a little rough after the steel bridge. But, the views are worth it!
Lavonna Skeans — Google review
Great place to stop on the way to somewhere, have a picnic, enjoy the view, walk around a bit.
There's a clean restroom and the picnic tables are under a roof that provides enough shade/protection from rain.
Sofia Ben Ami — Google review
Spectacular vistas. Well maintained rest area with clean bathrooms. Local artisans and vendors exhibit along the circular drive and have excellent prices on jewelry, textiles, and artwork. Fossils and minerals. Several shaded seating areas and well marked trail with safety fence along part of gorge edges. It's really a special place with amazing 360 views.
William Bock — Google review
So gorge! Such a beautiful and eerie rift valley 20 minutes NW on the outskirts of Toas. If you love geological features and heights, this is a spectacular view. You can drive over the bridge or stop, park, and walk along the bridge. Vendors are at the rest area across the bridge. Must see place in northern New Mexico.
Katrina G — Google review
I only got to stop briefly at the Gorge before nightfall, but the view is spectacular. I loved the easy walking trail that allows access to more of the canyon than a view from the bridge. Wish I had spent more time there!
Linda Thompson — Google review
Magnificent views from the bridge! If you are afraid of heights, beware! The railings are not too high and your legs will start shaking 🫨
There is a parking area where you can take photos of the bridge which you cannot do when walking on it.
Don't miss it! It is worth the drive.
Alejandra Aboud Keenan — Google review
At 650 feet above the river, The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and the fifth highest bridge in the United States.
With breathtaking views, the area is equipped with a public rest area which includes picnic tables and public restrooms.
Hugh Mondragon — Google review
Beautiful Bridge with a great view of the Gorge below. Leave yourself enough time to walk the west rim hike. Also a great place to view the sunset
Kelly Geer — Google review
It’s a nice stop. The rest stops were clean and they had street vendors offering local art and jewelry. It was a nice stop to take in the view.
Felicia S — Google review
Nice and quiet area for a walk and some sightseeing. Several vendors in the rest area with interesting jewelry, carvings and other items. The bridge is impressive from afar and crossing it is cool, if you’re no afraid of heights! There’s a point while crossing it where you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the height. The feeling is heightened by the cars passing by. Still a cool experience!
Mei-Ling R — Google review
Beautiful bridge.. best during sunset.. cross the bridge (if you are coming from Taos) and park at the rest area . Walk up on the bridge and enjoy the marvelous panoramic view of rio grande river and the mountains . We even saw some beautiful lightning during sunset.
Buvi Ramanathan — Google review
Great views from the lookout points along the bridge. It's about 1/4 mile walk from the unimproved parking area where there's an historical marker. Interestingly, there are Crisis Helpline call boxes at the lookout points. Sadly, jumping from the bridge must be common.
Ross Keener — Google review
Beautiful place with a beautiful view! I do recommend to stop there even for a second if you have the time! There are vendors in the parking lot selling beautiful artwork/jewelry as well as a non temporary suicide awareness bus.
A. Catarina — Google review
A beautiful site to see!! A short drive from Taos, breathtaking views, and I even saw two bighorn sheep a male and a female!! There were quite a few people there and I think some people selling various items. There's also a restroom.
Geena — Google review
Great attraction which is a short drive from Taos. The views are breathtaking. Make sure to see the gorge from both sides of the bridge. The views are spectacular. It was super windy and that can make certain people feel nervous. There is a parking area before you get to the bridge. It is depressing to see suicide call numbers but seems like a good service.
Rhishi Pethe — Google review
Well worth the drive for this amazing beauty. The views are insane and only made better by the picturesque New Mexico sky. Park at the rest stop and walk across for unparalleled photo ops.
Dawn Fisher — Google review
Beautiful place to explore! Wear sunscreen, the sun is usually pretty strong here. The bridge walk is narrow, but worth the steps for the view in the middle.
Luke Southern — Google review
Gorgeous view but be careful walking out onto bridge. It’s not 100% pedestrian friendly. The sidewalk is not wide. Be aware that large vehicles will make the bridge bounce.
Jackie Frosch — Google review
Great side attraction that is free and worth the short drive out of Taos. The views are amazing and there was plenty of parking at the rest stop just west of the bridge.
I only had two minor complaints about the experience. The restrooms were closed, probably due to the season. Also, there didn't seem to be any established route to get onto the bridge from the rest area. You basically had to walk a "deer trail" and hop over a guardrail to get onto the bridge.
Ryan Snyder — Google review
Just a short drive from Taos is this beautiful and spectacular bright and rest area. I didn't know about this place, but it kept popping up on my phone. It was an area where you can walk along the rails. On our visit, vendors were set along the rest area. The bathrooms were clean. It's an awesome site to see and it's free.
Jesus Herrera — Google review
Venturing from Austin, Texas to Taos, we made sure not to miss the awe-inspiring bridge with breathtaking views of the Rio Grande River. The drive was absolutely worth it, offering a tranquil escape with the added joy of watching people stroll along both sides of the bridge.
Taos Ski Valley is a small community and ski resort located in Taos County, New Mexico. With a population of only 69 people according to the 2010 census, it was previously one of the four ski resorts in America where snowboarding was prohibited until March 19, 2008. Whether it's winter or not, visitors can challenge themselves by hiking Wheeler Peak near Taos Ski Valley while enjoying breathtaking views.
The Wild Rivers Visitors Center provides stunning views of the Rio Grande Gorge and offers a loop trail as well as access to a nearby fish hatchery. While it is only a few miles west of Questa, visitors must drive about 15 miles north via NM 522 to NM 378. The park rangers are friendly and knowledgeable, providing directions and information about the area. The Visitor Center may be small but has all necessary information for visitors.
Fantastic hidden gem. Incredible views, lots of well marked trails, and plenty of wildlife. The visitor center is small, but very informative. Detailed maps of the campgrounds and hiking trails are readily available from the friendly staff.
Be aware that campsites for large rigs is limited, but there are numerous spots for smaller rigs (<25') and tents.
Enjoy.
Jim Fischer — Google review
Camped here several times over the years. Seems to be getting more popular. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Each loop does not have too many sites which is a plus. Great views of river gorges and several hiking trails. Sites and bathrooms very clean and well maintained.
Mike Jones — Google review
Amazing place. Visitors Center was small but had all the information you'll ever need. Road construction is almost finished but doesn't obstruct access
Postictal — Google review
Great visitor center and amazing views!! Beautiful drive of the Rio Grande and the gorge if you are willing to drive to the area!
Kate Hoke — Google review
As others have stated, Wild Rivers BLM is definitely off the beaten path. However, its easy to get here down a main paved highway. The roads in the park are paved. The campsite loops are gravel/unpaved but ok. We travel in a 38 Renegade Valencia. We found only a few sites that could easily handle our size. (No tow vehicle). Site 27 in El Auguaje was long enough for even a tow vehicle. Trees are an obstacle backing in. Park time was 10 minutes max. A little maneuvering. Its worth the drive and the maneuvering for the campground & the views. The campgrounds are connected by a nice, one way paved road loop with a bicycle path. My wife loves to e-bike so this is perfect. Each site has a gazebo with a metal roof & picnic table. No electricity. No dump. Water is available at the toilets. This is boondocking at its best.
AT&T was 20mbs. Great! We camped at El Aguaje Campground in a 38’ Super C.
Ron Gaddis — Google review
Out of the way, but best boondocking camp area we have ever been to. Covered picnic area at each site and plenty of space to stretch out. There is water at a couple of the campground areas, but no other services. However the solitude and hiking down the gorge makes it worth it.
Midlife from the Middle of Nowhere Evan and Angee — Google review
Loved the atmosphere here. Volunteers were friendly and knowledgeable. I walked the trail from El Aguaje Campground to the visitor center. It was so beautiful and well maintained.
Alisha B — Google review
Shhh, don't tell anyone about this piece of New Mexico! The Visitor is only open Friday to Tuesday...but stocked with maps and knowledgeable rangers. Camping is very reasonable and very few sites...go off season or weekday to get the perfect site to overlook the Gorge.
Catherine Ferguson — Google review
This is one of the most awesome remote areas in all of new mexico. The canyon just makes it so beautiful.
Kevroc — Google review
The visitor center is a fantastic place to stop. The staff are extremely knowledgeable, kind, and very helpful. The facility itself is interesting and has lots of information and robust, interactive, topographical, 3-D re-creations of surrounding geography. There is wildlife in blooming plants around the center when we visited. Can’t wait to return!
Joel Hunt — Google review
The trail leading down to the Rio Grande River at one of the Wild Rivers national campgrounds. The trail descends 500 feet to the river at this point. Be prepared in July for hot weather! Trail is rated difficult but the first few hundred feet are easy and beautiful ❤️
Rita Diller — Google review
Really really great views here. I went when there wasn’t a ton of people so I got to really enjoy the scenic views without the loud hustle and bustle. There’s a bunch of trails down to the river. The park rangers are quite nice and are great at directions. It’s about a 10 mile drive out to the park from Questa I think so don’t forget your water. (There is a water fountain near the trail though, but I wouldn’t depend on that.)
Sometimes...the hunt for various activities pays off. I wasn't aware of a serious adventure like this. This is a serious step back into time.
I have never seen such safety in place. Zero things to fear.
Honestly...we should have done the half day experience. We were exhausted when we finally got to the car. It was a long day.. The train never goes faster than 17 MPH. Yes...the views are one of a kind. Between the animals on the loose and the occasional sole person wandering the wilderness....it is relaxing especially for me. Nothing like the trains I ride in Chicago. The Chicago views can't compete with this experience.
My only complaint is....the stop for lunch. Please put down some iron grate cause walkers struggle to move on rocks.
AG Lopez — Google review
Lovely fall train ride. A bit pricey considering there was no hot lunch as advertised. Seems there was a kitchen fire just a few days before we went. The did brown bag lunches, turkey sandwich, chips, apple, and some sort of cookie thing. Drink choices were mediocre lemonade and water. The train left the station late on the way out. Our return trip was very slow as the engine seemed to be having an issue. We even had to stop partway back because the engine was over heating. The scenery was exquisite though. I'd go again some day.
Robin Hartwig — Google review
The train ride was great. A lot of information. They were very helpful. You didn't feel like you're lost all the time. We Stopped at the midway point to have a buffet lunch, All the aspens tree's were gold.
David Beavers — Google review
Did the Antonito Express Half-Day Trip. The train ride was great. Rode in the open car for half the ride. A crew member gives a tour along the route.
The scenery is great. You get great views of the mountains, hills, and valleys along the way.
It can get windy and a little cold climbing the mountains, so you might want to bring a jacket.
The half-day trip only has snacks and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You might want to bring your own food and drinks.
Definitely worth the price.
Rajesh Verma — Google review
This was a full day train ride from Antonito to Osier and back. We went through Toltec Gorge and had a great lunch. We sat in the parlor car and they gave us a nice bag and travel cup. Fem was our server and she was super nice. We really enjoyed this beautiful steam train ride.
Theresa Hoban — Google review
This was such a fun experience! We camped the night before and took the bus from Antonito. Definitely recommend starting in Chama since we were so tired in the afternoon and wanted to nap. The whole trip is pretty but I felt better napping while we were in the less pretty sagebrush than I would have in the alpine portion. Our guide on the train was great and knew so much about the area. We will be back!
Claire Hamilton — Google review
This was the main objective of our trip out west! The opportunity to ride the Cumbres and Toltec Railroad. What an experience! We believe all railroad travel is good and fun, and ride trains whenever possible, but we are not train enthusiasts or have any knowledge of trains. We think it's fun and enjoyable and this train was all fun, total enjoyment. We had tickets in the parlor car with great views out our window that lowered for fresh air. We were greeted with a nice danish, a bowl of fruit and coffee if wanted. Our car had a dedicated, knowledgeable guide who not only pointed out interesting sights and answered any and all questions, she also served any drink requests that we had, including cocktails if that is what you might desire. The train chugged thru the southern Colorado high plains as it made its way to the mountains and then weaved thru beautiful mountains and valleys with 2 tunnels. The vistas were more beautiful than I could describe. The scenery was breathtaking, and I was humbled at the beauty that lies within our incredible country. A spectacular day of weather on this spectacular train ride and followed with a smooth and comfortable bus ride back to our original departure point! Highly recommended!
Norm P. — Google review
This was a great day trip! We stayed in the general/main cabin and it was a nice experience! Very scenic and the guides/volunteers have a lot of great information! The lunch was a big cafeteria style lunch (nothing to write home about, but wasn’t terrible either). The train does turn around at the top so you get to see both sides for the different views on your trip!
Danielle K — Google review
Really great experience. Well worth it! You can go out on the observation car and view all the scenery. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable.
Bradley Smith — Google review
Loved our day on the train! The scenery was gorgeous - with the aspen trees turning yellow in the end of September. Saw coyotes and pronghorn antelope. We spent most of the ride in the open air car, so we had fabulous views. The train goes max 12 mph so you’re never wind blown. But you do need sunglasses for the sun and cinders. Staff is very friendly. Everything well organized. Lunch was buffet style and very good. One hint: if you’re looking for coffee and a freshly prepared breakfast burrito before the train departs Antonito, go to the Sinclair gas station.
Julie K Wood — Google review
During our visit to New Mexico and Colorado we rode both the Cumbres and Toltec and the Durango and Silverton Scenic Railroads. For me, the C&T was outstanding. Well worth a none hour flight and a five hour drive!
William Longley-Cook — Google review
It's a long day to ride the train to Antonito CO and bus back to Chama NM but we'll worth the time. Since our trip is in the fall the colors were beautiful. Our bus driver, Bus Driver Dave made the trip back go by fast with the information about the area and a joke or two.
Randy Torres — Google review
A great fall experience. The leaves were beautiful. The buffet at the Osier station was beyond expectations. The only reason I didn’t give 5 stars was they did not honor my request for seats on the left side of train. We rode from Antonito & the best side of the train is the left side especially if you’re into taking photos. Unfortunately on the day we rode the train it was too cold & windy for me to go to the open air gondola car to take photos. The docent was very friendly & informative. If you want souvenirs buy them in the morning as the gift shops are closed by the time you get back from the bus ride. When you arrive at the end you barely have time to use the restrooms before boarding the buses so there’s no time to shop then.
Denise Orr — Google review
Was really fortunate to partake in the annual Cumbres & Toltec rail run as part of a photo workshop. We arrived in time for the end of Day 1 and the night photo shoot, which was technically challenging and I've been in the photo industry for 26 years! When the shots finally got nailed down, the final images were immensely satisfying. Such a specific and unique photo experience. Loved it. Our group rode day two on Engine 315. This was my first experience for anything this railroad intensive outside of a museum and, for me, it was a fantastic experience. The volunteers and crew are an absolute wealth of knowledge as are, frankly, the railroad fanatics that joined up. I love people who are passionate about their hobbies and these folks are fully committed, thoroughly obsessed, rail riders. I learned a ton about the history of the C&T, it's overall run from Antonito into Chama, and even a few interesting pieces of deep Americana: the James A Garfield memorial found in the absolute middle of nowhere was a brilliant addition to an already historic run. Look for the petroglyph just a few miles south of Antonito, up the hill on the west side of the track ... And the miner's grave somewhere just before Oshei. Either way: pack a camera with a good long lens because the photo ops are numerous... But benefit from the telephoto compression in a big way. PS the train may come down with a few mechanical issues, as ours did. I see zero reason to get upset: this engine is over 100 years old and runs unbelievably well for all of that. Keep in mind: this is how it was for runners and conductors of their day. Consider it a more authentic experience. Kill the need for a schedule and just enjoy the total feel of it all. 100% recommended.
Marc Morris — Google review
This was such a great experience. No better combination of history and scenery and wildlife, plus genuine family time. I highly recommend doing this. We saw two bears and several elk. Super friendly staff.
Joseph Mokry — Google review
This was a wonderful full day of beauty and fun. We had an excellent stay at the Victorian B&B the night before and walked about a block to the station. Then started with the bus to the CO train and spent the day with a stop for lunch (included) enjoying the sights coming back to Chama. My husband said this was the highlight of our vacation. Highly recommended. Take the parlor car if you have no kids.
30-ft. waterfall reachable by a brief crevasse hike wading through water & over slippery rocks.
Easy drive up, even for a 2WD. Great views of the Crestones and Dunes!. Bathrooms are at the trailhead. Easy hike to the "cave" entrance. Microspikes are definitely recommended for going into the cave in the winter. Gorgeous ice formations on every wall! The frozen falls were amazing, with water flowing behind the clear ice.. Really cool to watch! Definitely worth the trip!!
Brian Baker — Google review
Awesome pull off for a quick and fairly easy hike. The falls were frozen but definitely still worth viewing, you could hear and see the water under the frozen ice and snow, so amazing!! Invigorating hike after a long time of driving, we were there around sunset so it was an extra beautiful decent back to the car !
Lauren (Rose) — Google review
Absolute must stop and make the hike out to the falls. It was an easy hike (very rocky). In late April the falls we’re still mostly frozen but made the walk out a bit easier. SO beautiful!!!
Laura Browning — Google review
Very short and nice hike! Very icy in November :) we did it with 2
Small kids under 3 and me 7month prego 😛 🙌🏻 it’s pretty and way up with car is not so hard, people are whiners 😂😂
Lewanda Photos — Google review
Beautiful frozen waterfall, with great views of the San Luis valley on the walk down
The con of visiting here is that it’s a very short easy walk, which unfortunately means encountering people and dogs on the trail who are unfamiliar with trail etiquette. Ffs, stop letting your dogs encroach on people’s personal space
Gabriela Bowden — Google review
Very nice short hike. We really enjoyed the scenery here. They were working on the road when went there so the drive up wasn't as smooth as it could be.
Manny ROD — Google review
A nice side trip on your way to Great Sand Dunes NP.
Entrance is free.
Zapata Falls is about a 1/2 mile walk from the parking lot. There is a bathroom available as well.
The hike to the falls was rocky and uphill. But there's a few benches along the way in case you need to rest.
I was disappointed in the size of the falls. Perhaps we went during the wrong season when water was low? Ive seen way more impressive waterfalls. Nonetheless, it was definitely still a fun experience and picturesque.
j h — Google review
Personally I love walking through freezing water. If you don’t that sucks because you have to to be able to see the entire of the falls. Fun spot to visit and spend some time in. Surrounded by some other hiking trails to explore.
Bryan Sacks — Google review
It's a steep drive up worth it! Start at the signs below and get some education of the place. Once at the top, if your a big truck, go to the right for overflow parking.
I recommend going before late afternoon as the sun moves off the mountain and it's darker at the waterfall. It's free to go up. It's half a mile up to waterfall. If you want to see it, expect to take shoes off and get wet. You cross the creek a couple times and then in the water to climb up rocks and see the waterfall. Our 6 year old made it to the creek and crossed couple times, but not into the freezing waters and up the rock. In case you got little ones too.
On way down, check out the views of the Great Sand Dunes NP!
Give this review a thumbs up if it helped you! #crazykleinadventure
Emily Klein — Google review
Zapata falls is a really cool and unique waterfall near the Great Sand Dunes National Park. If you are going to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, this is just a bit off of the main road that leads to the park. Once you get off the main road, the dirt road that leads up to the waterfall is kind of bumpy and not made for every car. I went on it in a small old Toyota camry and there was a few spots where I was wishing I hadn't drove and just hiked up the road instead, but I made it lol. Every other vehicle on the road was an SUV, jeep or truck, and I'd suggest using one of these. The actual waterfall was unique in that it was kind of inside a canyon type of space and it was almost like it was coming through the roof of the mountain. It is really cool to check out.
B A — Google review
It’s about a half mile hike but don’t let it fool you thinking it’s an easy one.
You’ll have to walk uphill most of the time and navigate through slippery rocks. Also don’t forget to put on bug repellent otherwise the mosquitos will eat you alive.
It’s all worth it though. The views are amazing and compared to other waterfalls this one is relatively easier as well.
Carlos Cruz — Google review
Short gander up the creek brings one to an incredible space within the crevice. It is possible with the right climbing skills to traverse the creek without getting wet but expect to get ankle deep in ice cold mountain run off
Gaia Street — Google review
If you are near the sand dunes, you must take this short hike to see the falls!!
Go through the creek, look at the first fall then traverse over the other rocks and around the corner to get the full effect of the falls!!
The trail is a little rocky but it is not hard. Your feet will get wet but that is all part of the fun!!
Gayle McNeil — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(471)
Colorado 81146, USA
17
Colorado Gators Reptile Park
Zoo
Nature & Parks
Wildlife park on a fish farm with albino alligators, crocs & snakes, plus gator-wrestling lessons.
You would think the only good gator parks in the US would be in Florida, but not the case at all! Our family visited a great Gator park in Florida two years ago and had a blast, BUT, this park here in our home state of Colorado DEFINITELY measured up, and was actually MORE interactive than the one we visited in Florida.
We stopped by this park on our way home from our Spring Break vacation in Pagosa Springs.
My kids were fascinated and thrilled by the opportunity to hold a variety of snakes, feed tortoises, and take a picture with a baby alligator. Of course, there were PLENTY of adult size gators of all sizes and ages that we got to see and even feed as well. The bucket of food for the gators is only a couple of dollars, but you can get one for free by bringing in a coupon found in a brochure at nearby hotels.
The staff knows what they are talking about and went ABOVE and BEYOND to make sure our family had a truly interactive and enjoyable experience!
As a child of the 90's it was a major thrill for me to see the famous gator featured in Happy Gilmore. His name is Morris, and he has his OWN large enclosure where he can roam freely and enjoy his retirement from decades in film and TV industry.
Again, a GREAT EXPERIENCE!
Aman Chabra — Google review
This place is wild! It's $20 to get in but it's definitely worth it! There are so many awesome animals and you can get pretty close to some of them! Lots of tortoises walking around and some fish you can feed. The signage is really funny and just adds to the experience. We went pretty close to after it opened so it wasn't busy or crowded. Super unique experience, I would definitely recommend checking it out!
Jillian Hesse — Google review
This place is super cool! They unfortunately just had a tragic fire, so we didn't get to see any snakes, so we'll definitely come back for that when they finish renovations. It's a little expensive, but I was happy to pay the price to help them with their renovations. Everyone who works here is super friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely will return.
Tassja Stephens — Google review
It was an interesting experience. Personally I’m not a fan of crocs but it was worth checking it out while in the area.
It would help if the signage was better, maybe even somewhat interactive.
We did get to hold a young alligator, kids got a “certificate” hole punched by its teeth 🙈
PS also we have never seen such giant mallards, they were the size of Canada geese! (Hard to tell from the photo though)
Aiman M — Google review
This place was SO COOL! I am in total disbelief that such an interesting and unusual place exists in the mountains or Colorado. You get a VERY up close and personal experience at the park. The staff is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic - they really went above and beyond to make sure my questions were answered. The alligators are gigantic. There are tons of turtles roaming around freely, a few exotic birds, and tons of snakes and lizards (don’t worry, those are behind glass). The whole thing is really jaw dropping! I’m so glad I got to mark this place off my bucket list, but I’ll be back. Amazing!
Taylor Leigh Fraser — Google review
An awesome place to spend a couple of hours. Price seemed a bit steep at first but was worth every penny. They do an awesome job taking care of their animals. Sad to see they have to "rescue" so many reptiles from people who should never have owned them in the first place.
Definitely the worth the visit!
R K — Google review
This is a must see! Very educational and they should charge more! How they filter the water from the plants and re-use it is amazing! My grandkids thought this was the best part of our trip!
Michelle Ohnemus — Google review
What a fun spot to look at all the gators. They have other animals as well… tortoises, emus, snacks, a shark and many other things. Easy going place that the kids loved. We stayed 30-40 minutes & was very entertained!
Laura Fadenrecht — Google review
Fantastic experience! We got greeted by the cutest cats and friendly workers who gave us a bucket of gator food to feed all the alligators in the park. They had rescue emus, turtles, and even some sharks! The best part was holding a baby alligator 🐊 Special shout out to the helpful worker who saved my bracelet from a gator filled pond! ❤️ You can tell the staff really enjoy what they do!
Abby Bounds — Google review
We loved this place! We were greeted by such friendly tortoises who loved the lettuce and the petting. Then to the snakes, monitors, etc, then over to the tilapia tanks where we tossed our handful of feed and watched them resembling more like piranha in the feeding. Then over to the alligators, crocodiles and more. I highly encourage all to go and support this wonderful venture. Review written by the writer of Last of the Knowers.
ROGER BROWNING — Google review
Worth the stop. We really enjoyed getting to see all the different reptiles. My daughter's and wife were quite fond of the tortoises. I loved the plants and Gators. The emus were really fun too. If you're considering coming here do yourself a favor and do it. You won't be disappointed.
Jason Staadt — Google review
Our family had a fantastic time here. TONS of gators, turtles and other reptiles. Really friendly folks, too. Well worth the trip and cost of admission.
Pete Gentzler — Google review
This was our 2nd visit.
We enjoy feeding (throwing handfuls of purchased chow into the water) the Gators & they always have a few smaller Gators on rotation for visitors to hold and learn about up close.
Cute emu's from an abandoned rescue also live here as do a variety of ducks & awesome turtles & tortoises 🐢
Lyd Willson — Google review
If I could give more stars I most definitely would!! We have 6kids Ages Range from 2yrs old to 20yrs old and EVERYONE.. loved this place! The Staff they are just awesome laid-back good sense of humor & Sign posted around are good for laugher with honest factors about visiting and staying safe it's worth the drive and it's next to the great sand dunes !
9/8/2023 ♡
Ps the Gator from Happy Gilmore starring Adam Sandler is there as well 😀
miss brat — Google review
My partner and I visited when it was just above freezing, the gators outside were a bit slow at first. Eventually about noon they started to move around and going for the food we threw. It was a bit confusing walking through and at first we were hesitant if we could walk through certain doors or not, but most areas were accessible to, just not inside the gated areas where the animals were. Overall, we will definitely come back and recommend a visit for anyone passing through with extra time.
William Walters — Google review
Gator farm was awesome and we really enjoyed this experience. Staff was nice and friendly and all the animals were easily visible. Loved meeting Morris and kids got to hold a baby gator.
Michael S (Mike6sic6) — Google review
It's always a good time to visit the alligator farm. Even when it's icy outside, the alligators are provided with warm water to keep from getting too cold. You get to feed the gators and some fish, as well as hold a young gator. It's a good time for families with young kids, and they have a playground for them too.
JC Caelan — Google review
What a great place to visit. I go every time I am close, the 25 dollars to get in is so worth it when you see the employees working hard to make sure the animals in their care are all good. They even give you a bucket of dog food to feed the beasts. And the tilapia are ready to eat too. They have small bins of fish food too. Thank you for the great day. Kee0 up the gooood work.
eric heinz — Google review
A Sanctuary, a working ranch. We have been there years ago and again now. They keep it running with the fees.
I'm a bit worried about the animals and some visitors (especially kids can be very rude), but they do their best to guarantee those creatures a good life. They had a devastating fire in April and lost so many animals. It still breaks my heart to think of it.
Maybe the fish tank could be improved? Looks quite uncomfortable.
Anyway, the workers there do their very best and I really respect that.
It's special, you can touch tortoises and an alligator. The nice guy told me they don't feel uncomfortable.
It's clear: those animals are NOT pets!
D H — Google review
Was a great reptile park to visit. The staff was super friendly and you are able to feed the gators. You can tell the animals are loved and the whole park has a very relaxed vibe to it.
Facility offering exhibits & a short film about the park, plus a bookstore, snacks & souvenirs.
This place just doesn’t make sense. It’s incredibly beautiful and a wonderful place to camp! It has great meadows, mountains and of course huge sand dunes. This park is absolutely worth the adventure. The pictures DO NOT DO THIS PLACE JUSTICE. Definitely going back.
JB — Google review
Who knew there were sand dunes in the mountains of southern Colorado. I've vacationed all throughout Colorado when I was young with my parents and as adult with my wife and daughter. The sand dunes are NOT what you see at the beach. It's an amazing experience to see and interact with the sand. You can hike up to top. You can rent sleds and or boards to slide down the sand dunes. The park is open 24 hours. However the visitors center open for specific times and days. The Great Sand dunes admission is $25 per car load. I recommend during the summer go early in the morning before the sand heats up. At night you can see the stars and on a full moon the dunes come alive, but bring a flashlight.
The Park Rangers are helpful and friendly. Plan to visit when you're in Southern Colorado.
Jeffro Turbo — Google review
An excellent stop! Very informative, inviting and interesting. All of the displays and videos were top notch. The view of the dunes from the visitor center is fantastic as well. The rangers are very thoughtful and helpful.
Elise White — Google review
Awesome place. Stop at Zapata Falls. Short hike but, wading a creek. Be sure to go all the way in to see the top falls.
Lavonna Skeans — Google review
Decent educational exhibits, wonderful views, plenty of parking, great customer service, decent bathrooms, and as for the park itself. It’s a lot harder to get to the top than you think! At least it is for a pregnant lady used to living below sea level!! Hahaha it’s definitely something pictures will never do justice. Also sitting down in the wind is a BAD idea. Sand goes in every hole… although this park is dog friendly and you can bring your dogs. Please note that this area is very very windy and on bare human skin the sand feels like needles when you get higher. If you have your dogs it might be best to not bring them up high on the dunes. When you’re standing it seems fine but if you sit you feel what they may feel…. Also something really cool we seen was people sledding and sand boarding down the dunes! It looked like a lot of fun and I wish we would have brought something!
April Somerville — Google review
This is a hidden gem. It seems like nearly no one knows that there is a national park in the middle of the Colorado mountains that has miles and miles of sand dunes. Yes it feels like and looks like you are in the middle of the Sahara desert but you are in the mountains of Colorado! It is truly eerie that there are 700 foot sand dunes that you can climb and literally walk for miles in sand dunes in the middle of the Colorado mountains. But be prepared for a tough hike up towards the top, the 2 mile hike feels like four since you are walking in sand. Yes it is a bit off the beaten path but definitely worth the trip. Truly a must visit, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Sandy Silverman — Google review
Beautiful national park with great views! It will be windy, so prepare accordingly. Also a hike on sand takes longer so if you’re going up the dunes give yourself ample time. However there is plenty of flatter terrain to hike as well.
Katie Vincent — Google review
Loved the experience. Trail behind Visitor's Center leads to a lower parking lot and the dunes, or you can drive down and park and go on to the dunes. Sand is hot, hydrate! Be careful with dogs, paws will burn on sand. Just beautiful landscape. So much wildlife in area.
Stephanie Crain — Google review
When we went the visitor center was only the gift shop. All of the exhibits and theater were closed, due to Covid, so we weren’t able to have the full experience. You can buy your souvenirs here. NOTE: they do NOT sell or rent sleds or boards here. If you are planning to sled or board, you must buy or rent beforehand. I’d like to go back sometime to experience the rest the visitor center had to offer:
Ashley H — Google review
I have been wanting to see the dunes in Colorado for a long time. They were pretty cool to see. I wasn’t able to climb them this trip due to a recent knee repair surgery but hopefully one day. The people were climbing up then sledding down. It looked like a lot of fun. It’s well worth the stop yo see. Again, it was a little less than organized. There were signs but there was no one around to explain anything or ask questions unless you went to the visitor center.
Patricia L — Google review
This park is one of a kind. Beautiful views all around. The feeling of a beach in the mountains. Make sure to make the hike up to Zapata Falls. And take a plastic sled or board for the dunes. There is something to do here for all ages and enjoy.
Jessica V — Google review
Very unique national park with extensive sand dunes for miles. I went during fog after a storm. The wet sand was easier to walk on and the clouds made for cool pictures.
Emery Emerson — Google review
Tourist trap. It's decent enough, crowded, and the ac isn't great with all the doors opening all the time. The exhibit is neat inside. Didn't go to shop, but some peeps in the crew bought stuff. Water refill station is great (wish there was more than one).
The signage on the trail is not maintained, but the views are great.
H C — Google review
Very interested location. You can buy different souvenirs here. Rangers tell you the history of dunes, and you can watch some video how changed territory during years.
Iryna Potishna — Google review
The views are great. Most of the exhibits were "out of order" which was a letdown for my child. The gift shop is expensive, like all of them. They had some cute ornaments. The cost to enter the park is $25/car.
Amanda & Jerry Harper — Google review
Spectacular!
I'm so glad I read reviews. People are not kidding when they say get there early. On a week day. Not a holiday
We've traveled on a motorcycle from Richmond Virginia to the Grand Canyon and we are slowly heading back east. This National Park was on our to do list. It is Saturday, Memorial weekend. There was a 13 minute backup delay at the entrance going in at 10. Coming out at 12:30, the line of cars stopped, waiting to enter, is over a mile long. CRAZY!
The park rangers were not letting cars go down to the parking lot to the dunes, because it was full. We were allowed to go down on the bike. Otherwise, its parking on the side of the main road and walking a half mile or more.
Once we parked, we took off our shoes, rolled up our pants, walked across the rushing stream and went up the first hill. The water was cool, inviting.
Families are all around, kids digging in the sand, splashing in the water. It's the beach in a vast, land locked area.
Definitely worth the trip. I cant stress enough the importance of going early. On a weekday. Not on a holiday.
Billie Evans — Google review
A wonderful pitstop on the road! While I didn't climb the peak it was amazing to climb to where I was and the views were stupendous!
Bring closed shoes and hiking poles if you plan on going up past 8500ft. 😀
Rick Shaw — Google review
It was a really beautiful spot. I will hopefully be back to visit at nighttime one of these days. The visitor center is very nice too.
Joe Schmoe — Google review
Very informative Visitor Center as usual! Lots of infographics here and big maps that details the park. There is restrooms and also a gift shop in here as well.
What a awesome adventure!!! My whole family went and enjoyed it! We can't wait for next year. It's a must do, my best part was the views.
Felix Brena — Google review
Absolutely Amazing time!!! Dave and our guide John were both so nice and knowledgeable about the area. We got to experience the mountains in a way we never would have on a hike. They even stop at scenic spots for pictures!! Hands down the highlight of our trip. Worth every penny and highly highly recommend!!
Angela Hayden — Google review
We loved the experience. Had great fun, got amazing pictures and learned some history of the area too. Pete was a fantastic guide; had us completely taken care of the whole time. First class excursion. Can't wait to come back and go again!
Jay Burke — Google review
We had a BLAST on our trip! Our tour guide Buzz was awesome and very informative about the history in the mountains! And he wanted to take all the pictures for us he could! We really appreciated that! Easy to find— right off the highway! We had a three hour tour and we used every big of time, the views were beautiful! 20/10 would recommend!!
Alexis Norris — Google review
Our family of 7 (5 adults, 2 children, ages 9 & 7) absolutely LOVED our Ride The Rockies tour on August 30th. It was an incredible experience you should not miss!! I highly recommend the 4:30 pm time slot as the sunset at the end was breathtaking! Our guide, Dakota, was fantastic. He loves what he does and sharing his knowledge of the area with you. We truly enjoyed his company and easy going style. Everything from making the reservation (we had a ton of questions) to arrival, being educated on the safe operation of the vehicles, and what to expect on our adventure was handled with excellence, patience and our personal favorite...humor! Thank you Play Dirty for being a memorable part of our first family vacay to beautiful Colorado!!
Gayle Brickert — Google review
We took our small company on a team building trip to Colorado Springs last week. As part of the experience we booked a 3 hour ATV (all of us had our own ATV) tour with Play Dirty ATV Tours that took us from the 6,000 feet elevation to 9,000 feet--3,000 feet of absolute awesomeness. From our first experience with Katrin at home base to the experience with our guide, Scott, it was perfect.
Scott was fun, super energetic, experienced, and knew the area quite well (Scott grew up in these mountains and it was apparent). Because we were on our own ATV's we had the opportunity to run some trails that were quite narrow and a little more challenging than others. There really is nothing like experiencing these views and landmarks. We would definitely do this again with Play Dirty ATV Tours.
Thanks for a great time in such a beautiful part of our country!
Michael King — Google review
We had a group of 10 and Randy took us on a great ride. Everyone in the group had a great time. A couple of them were in their 70’s and truly enjoyed themselves as did the rest of us. Randy really made it an enjoyable experience. Thank you!
Tim Huggins — Google review
Our Tour Guide was Frankie she was amazing! Very informational and was a great teacher! We did the Rockie Tour and it was literally the best three hours of our lives! Worth every penny!
Lauren Rowe — Google review
What a wonderful afternoon spending time riding ATVs through the Rockie Mountains!! Our tour guide was great and made sure everyone stayed together and was safe. The views are absolutely spectacular!! Highly recommend not to miss this adventure!!
Kristi Smith — Google review
We had a blast on this tour! Pete was a wonderful tour guide! Made several stops to share local historical info with photos and took pictures of us too. Views were amazing (even though weather was moving in and smoke from Canada didn’t allow better views) We did the 2 hr tour and over all, well worth every penny for the memories!
Wendy Menk — Google review
Took a vacation to Colorado Springs and decided to take a hour and half drive to Cotopaxi for a 3 hour ATV tour with Play Dirty. This was an amazing experience packed with thrills and relaxation. We never been on a ATV up a mountain before and it was a whole experience that you MUST TAKE! Being on top of the mountain how quiet and peaceful it was is what I meant by relaxing. Sun shining 67 degrees and little snow flurries just sparkling in the views! We got to see some wildlife and be inside a volcano that is no longer active. Will was our tour guide and he was awesome! Super friendly, knowledgeable and made sure we were safe and comfortable the whole ride. Very hospitable guy! Thank you for this experience! 6 out of 5 stars I strongly recommend!!!
Stephanie D — Google review
My son and I had a great time yesterday! Scott was an awesome guide and we were grateful to have him with us. Every part of our visit to Play Dirty was positive, including the online reservation system. I'm sure we'll be back again. I've heard Texas Creek OHV area can get pretty hectic on the weekends so if you're able to book a weekday I highly recommend it, we had minimal traffic on a Tuesday.
Paul H. — Google review
Fabulous must do! Scott was our guide and man did he. We drove on a snowy trail in our own side by side up and down the mountain. Scott would stop and point out interesting facts about the area which were really cool. My husband and I travel to Colorado several times a year, doing all sort of things but this was a 1st. Glad it was with Scott. He gave us insite into the areas history and you can tell he loves his job. We will be back.
Jennifer Espinosa — Google review
Our tour guide, Randy, was amazing and made sure we were safe and had the most fun! Very genuine and friendly! Would recommend this ATV tour for anyone who’s a beginner to expert. Such amazing views! We will be back again!
Franchiska Green — Google review
Very organized and very nice outgoing guys! Pete and Scott were great! They were very informative! Had a blast out on the trails and very nice views! Highly recommend them! Would definitely come back!!
Antonio Romero — Google review
If I could give more stars I would! We did the 4-hour tour and it was absolutely amazing! Pete (I believe that was his name) also added historical aspects to the tour which we loved! Everyone was so kind and helpful and made my first time in CO so memorable.
Kristen Reilly — Google review
Our experience was unique. Pete made the tour one of a kind for me and my husband. Best thing we could have done in Colorado. Thank you ☺️
Liliana Alonso — Google review
Had a great time! We were a group of 6 and got the last tour of the day. Our tour guide led us all the way up 3k feet elevation. it was a bumpy and extremely fun ride. Some parts were indeed very rocky- overall adventurous and we made a bunch of scenic stops with stunning views of the Rockies. Highly recommend if you are looking for a fun, different activity in the area. And oh, it stands true to its name. We were totally covered in dust/ mud by the end so be prepared accordingly. Wear the goggles they provide for sure, else you won’t be able to see much in just sunglasses/ shades.
Overall great fun!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a stunning location for hiking, camping and enjoying scenic views of the Gunnison River and Painted Wall cliff. It offers unique vistas that are different from the Grand Canyon with steeper walls making it difficult to see into the valley below. The park is known for its incredible sunsets and should be visited in off-season to avoid crowds. There are limited accommodations nearby but exploring this national park is definitely worth it.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is called "The Grand Canyon of Colorado" which is an amazing way of putting it. The best distinction between the two though is that Black Canyon lacks the crowds! We have done the south rim a number of times and stayed at the campground as well which is well kept and an amazing area to stargaze in due to the lack of lights at night. The south rim drive is full of pull offs and great views around every corner. My two favorite trails here are the Painted Wall View which is best to see at sunrise (the light is too harsh coming down over the ridge in the afternoon) and Warner Point Nature Trail. The sunset from Warner Point is amazing and you can either look toward the sunset over the canyon or back and away from it which offers amazing glows from the sun setting over the horizon. This is a must-see National Park when you are traveling through Colorado!
Jeremy Janus — Google review
What a gem. For a national park the amount of people visiting was less than i expected, which was great for me. Stunning and breathtaking. But you need to experience it yourself to fully appreciate it. The gunnison trail wilderness permit goes fast and can be reserved the previous day at 330pm. First come first serve. The Warner trail is strenuous. Be prepared for steep grades and loose dirt and rocks. Also trekking poles would help immensely. This is a full day hike or an overnight there and back trail. Lots of upper rim trails that have very little elevation gain. This park is worth the visit.
Mark Mascardo — Google review
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a remarkable destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Colorado, this park is known for its dramatic and steep-walled canyon carved by the Gunnison River over millions of years.
The park offers breathtaking viewpoints that provide awe-inspiring vistas of the canyon and its sheer cliffs. The dark, narrow gorge is an impressive sight, with its rugged rock formations and the river flowing far below. Visitors can explore several hiking trails that lead to different overlooks, each offering unique perspectives of the canyon's beauty.
For those seeking adventure, the park provides opportunities for rock climbing, fishing, and kayaking. Camping is also available, allowing visitors to spend more time immersed in the natural surroundings. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to spot various bird species, including eagles and falcons, as well as mule deer and other wildlife that call the park home.
It's worth noting that the Black Canyon is known for its steep terrain and challenging hiking conditions. Visitors should exercise caution and adhere to park regulations for their safety.
Overall, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park offers a captivating and rugged wilderness experience. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature photographer, or simply someone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world, this park is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Bhushan Dharmadhikari — Google review
Awesome views! If you are scared of heights, stay away from the edge of the canyon. Most of the edges almost complete drop-off areas. Roads through this national park are also very windy, so make sure to be careful driving through the park as many areas also are pretty close to drop-off areas with little guard rails.
Skyler S — Google review
A beautiful, small national park that not many people know about. An amazing canyon carved by the Gunnison River, up to around 2700' deep, and impressive vertical walls. The park has a developed campground, plus backcountry ones as well. I wish it had more trails, specially one that went to the bottom by the river. You can do it, but you need a permit and there is no developed trail, so you must do it relying only on your own skills. Otherwise, as spectacular as all other national parks!
Peter Hey (RV PLANET) — Google review
Always check the website and ranger station before venturing out. Great to see even in the winter. Traction gear is recommended as it is slightly icy. Only south rim is open but gorgeous regardless. The visitor center closes at 4.
Bathrooms available but vault toilets. No water.
The Stork Got Lost — Google review
Incredible sunsets, and little brother to the grand canyon.
Walls are steeper and make it hard to see the valley below, adding the the unique nature of this place.
Avoid crowds and go in off season to soak in the full spirit of the place. Not many accomodations nearby.
Max Sawa — Google review
What an amazing place. One of the nicest places to visit in the western portion of Colorado. A definite must see. The vista views are spectacular. Don't believe the yards the signs tell you to walk to see the sight. They are further than what's posted on the signs.
W Foular — Google review
Not the most popular of National Parks, but still very scenic. Didn't really have the opportunity to hike down into the canyon. I think you might need a wilderness permit for that sort of thing. But you can drive along the ridge and stop at a few scenic places that take you up to the edge.
Jeffrey V — Google review
This isn't a park just anyone can drive through and appreciate. We were too large to drive the portal road. You need to park at the scenic view areas and walk to the viewing areas to really experience the park. Beautiful views. Definitely worth a visit. If you have mobility issues this park may be a challenge.
Monica MB — Google review
You know what you’re going to see! It’s Black Canyon! Absolutely gorgeous place in summer or winter. If you go in winter, you’ll have to bring your own snowshoes. I was told you can rent them in town. I ended up hiking a few miles just in my snow boots but it was not the funnest of hikes. So yes, please bring some snow shoes. They use to offer them here if you came years ago but they no longer do.
If you go in summer, get there early and make sure you check the site for any news. It’s an absolutely gorgeous place to visit and I can’t recommend this place enough! Enjoy.
Ty Liddell — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous spot. The drive down the canyon is also 100% worth it! I recommend going here if you have the time any day!! Fishing is also supposed pretty fruitful in the river here.
Kyle Beach — Google review
Absolutely breathtaking. One of my favorite spots in Colorado for stunning views and peaceful serenity. I would recommend the Warner Point hike if you are up for it. The Echoes are insane from up there, short hike that’s definitely worth the view!
Rahul Sankar — Google review
Don't miss the North side... especially the 1.5 mile hike (3 miles round trip) to Exclamation Point! Absolutely gorgeous! I get goose bumps every time I look down from the edge.
Hope Miura — Google review
One of the most underrated national parks. The sheer drop offs from the outlooks were stunning. The north rim is significantly less crowded than the south rim. If you do make the drive up north, make sure to hike the North Vista trail up to Green Mountain and stop at Exclamation Point. In the south rim, we were able to secure a wilderness permit and hike down into the canyon along the Gunnison Route. Took about 4.5 hours round trip. Extremely technical, steep and slippery but has some of the most beautiful views of the canyon. Talk to a ranger at the visitors center if you are interested in obtaining a permit. There are a ton of drivable outlooks along the road which are worth it. You are able to drive down to the Gunnison River via the East Portal road. Be aware that this drive is extremely steep and curvy. There is NO reception in this park except at high point at the end of the Rim Drive Rd. Overall, this is one of my favorite NPs. It’s not the most popular, but that keeps it less crowded. The night sky here is crystal clear so definitely stay for the stargazing also.
Aliza Brown — Google review
This place is stunning. Standing on the edge of the canyon and looking straight down at the river 1,800' below is breathtaking. There are several overlooks that give great views of different areas of the canyon. The South Rim road has the most. Don't miss the East Portal road. It takes you all the way down to the river on a VERY steep and winding road. No trailers allowed, too many hairpin switchbacks. The campground is good, located just a short stroll from the canyon rim. Walk the rim trail from the campground to the visitor center (1 mile). The views are incredible.
Ken Tischler — Google review
After a July 2023 visit, I should say the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is spectacular and more people should see it. I would give it 5 stars except for the problems we had during our visit. We were driving a 32 ft class C motorhome towing a Chevy Trailblazer. I'm always careful where I go with it since we can get stuck easily, not able to turn around. Well the Ranger at the gate waved us on through and I assumed we could find RV parking and tour the park. Wrong assumption! The so called RV parking at the visitor center was pull in only and it was filled with cars. We made the wrong choice of turning left further into the park instead of right back out of the park. Anyway, by some miracle we found a spot to pull over and disconnect the Chevy, then make a U-turn blocking the road for a time. Both vehicles finally made it down the mountain back to Rt. 50. So bottom line take only a passenger vehicle into the park and hope you can find parking. There is a campground inside the gate where maybe the RV could turn round but is at the beginning.
Michael Mills — Google review
Way more than what we thought it was going to be! Worth a trip to see the really cool landscapes. We didn’t have time to stop and hike but so glad we stopped and drove through to see the major outlooks. A lot of the trails we went to were dog friendly as well which was a nice surprise.
Julia Bell — Google review
This is a beautiful area to see. Most of the lookouts are an easy walk from the parking areas along the road. You still need to be a little careful because of loose rocks and dirt, but it's pretty easy to traverse. A couple areas have stairs so just be aware of that if you have any knee issues.
Katie Elisa — Google review
Beautiful and unique sight to behold, it’s hard to see the depth that these canyons are, it was an easy walk from the visitor center to a great overlook. There is some informational content in the visitor center. There is no water up here. Outhouse was clean and heated
Lauren (Rose) — Google review
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a must-see for any nature lover. The canyon is home to some of the steepest and deepest rock walls in North America, and the views from the rim are simply breathtaking. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing in the park.
Here are a few tips for making the most of your visit:
Start by visiting the Visitor Center to learn more about the park's geology, history, and wildlife. You can also pick up a map and get recommendations for hiking trails and other activities.
Be sure to hike the North Rim Trail to Painted Wall. This colorful rock formation is one of the most popular attractions in the park. The trail is also a great place to see mule deer, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife.
If you're looking for a more challenging hike, try the South Rim Trail to Warner Point. This trail offers stunning views of the canyon and the Gunnison River below.
Overall, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is an amazing place to visit. The canyon is truly unique and offers something for everyone. I highly recommend adding this park to your travel list!
N D — Google review
Beautiful!! This is different than any national park I have seen before! Awesome to drive to the bottom to enjoy a primitive hike on the river. All of the overlooks were astounding! Highly recommend. We stayed in the camp ground in the park, made it so easy!
This tour is one of the most highlighted event we experienced in Colorado! Drove 2 hours from Denver just to go to our early call time, we we're there early and was able to see great views and history throughout the mountain. Our guide Shep telling us cool stories and great history in the abandoned mines. We had someone in our tour who kept getting lost or falling so we had the time to take tons of photos and appreciate the views they had to offer! We will definitely be back again for some more adventures with you guys!
Gelli Cious — Google review
We had a great time with our guide. He was super helpful and made our trip exciting. Booking was a little hard to do as well as understanding which forms to fill out. We rented clothing for both my boyfriend and I and stayed warm and dry the entire time. The only issue we had was with the front desk lady. She wasn’t very helpful when we were trying to buy things from the gift shop, so we ended up not purchasing anything. GREAT time in general tho!
Meaghan Looney — Google review
This was our second time going on a snow mobile tour. We had a blast! Our tour guide was so chill and fun to hang out with and treated us like family. His wife was wonderful and welcomed us in too! The hospitality, general based knowledge and safety measures were phenomenal. The tour was more than perfect. The 3 hour session was the right amount of time. We plan on coming back every year! Thank you Monarch Snowmobile Tours!!! You guys rock!
Chloe Castagna — Google review
BIG shout out to our tour guide, Chris!
We had a beautiful time running the back country! Superb views, great trails and a lot of snow with a beautiful blue sky!
Highly recommend this company for an adventure you’ll always remember!
Thanks to the entire staff for making everyone feel welcomed!
We will be back, someday!
Joanne Saunders — Google review
Our family was a group of 10 (mostly) first time snow-mobilers and we had a great time. Everyone felt safe and properly educated. We rode through some trails, got some interesting tidbits of history about the area and had plenty of time for free riding and photos. Our guide Sean was attentive and always helpful. One thing to note is that upon arrival, they strongly recommend paying an extra $20 insurance, which limits your financial liability should you really damage your snow mobile.
We also enjoyed complementary hot chocolate, a toasty fire, and some adorable furry friends to warm up with after the ride!
Lindsay Hosseini — Google review
I’ve been here twice now. Sean is an AWESOME guide. Half-day express tour - Excellent safety briefing, some adrenaline pumping moments, the trails we rode are gorgeous, and Sean is FUNNY. He told us about some pretty cool history, took the best photos (that’s what happens when your guide also has wedding photography experience) and kept checking in on us. I’d give Sean 10 stars if I could.
I’m still smiling thinking about that roller coaster run!
If you’re going on this tour, breathe deep and enjoy the beautiful scenery you get to experience - it truly is a wonder. I can’t wait to come back for a THIRD TIME!
Nikhil M — Google review
We loved our snowmobile tour. We had the opportunity to explore different trails and amazing views. Our guide Joe was amazing. He was very knowledgeable and cautious. I was nervous at the beginning because it was my first time but after I felt confident riding with an experience guide. Great customer service. Highly recommended.
Claudia P Trousdale — Google review
We had THE BEST TIME. Kyle is the nicest guy and made this a fun experience. We felt safe and free. The views were amazing. Now we just want to own a snowmobile. Will 100% be back again and will ask for Kyle (im sure everyone else is cool too) if you're thinking about doing it...just do it.
Kierstin Benitez — Google review
This is our 3rd season with this company and it has been epic every time. Blizzard conditions and Sean showed us a phenomenal experience. Powder was amazing. Being a mom of boys, it was a perfect day. Highly recommend, we love Shep too.
Amanda Archibald — Google review
Our trip with Monarch with Emilio was nothing short of an amazing lifetime experience. We absolutely loved him and had so much fun!
The check in and equipment process was very fast and efficient. I’d recommend renting a full set. Emilio made sure we were comfortable and warm.
Your guide will load you up in the van and take you to the staging section of the sleds. There you’ll be educated on the machine and how to safely navigate. He will also tell you about the trails, hand signals to follow, etc.
We were the only ones in our group on a double sled so we had more free rein on what exactly we wanted to do. We did 3 free ride sessions and went on 3-4 trails. I would recommend buying the $20 insurance because you just never know. If you’re a first time rider, get it. We were very comfortable riding and on one of the trails we hit really soft snow and got stuck. It sounds scarier than it was. Emilio was great at helping us get out and back on track.
There’s free hot cocoa back at the shop and a fireplace which you’ll likely need on your way back.
We did 3 hours but I think you could be just fine with 2.
Thank you so much Monarch for such a great time! We left talking about all of the amazing photo ops and scenery out there. You made our entire trip!
Tori L — Google review
This was our first time snowmobiling, and we had such an amazing time with the Monarch Snowmobile team! We went on our tour with Joe and he was incredible. We would love to be back and do the longer tour next time. What an incredible experience!!!
Caitlyn Theron — Google review
We had so much fun with Sean! He was super knowledgeable about the history and the general area. We did the two hour tour and next time we will be doing a longer one! The views were incredible. We loved that we were supporting a local, family owned business!
Hayley Rico — Google review
Absolutely amazing!!! We had a family of 7 and our guide Shawn was hands down the best. He helped us learn and enjoy the snowmobiles to the fullest! He was patient with the members who were riding for the first time and took us to the best spots, where he captured some of the best pictures we've taken during our Colorado trip.
100% recommended monarch snowmobiles tours, and our best guide Shawn.
shabana khan — Google review
Did a three hour private trip with Monarch Snowmobile Tours and had a fantastic day. We talked with four or five of the staff and all where very friendly and professional. The tour had a great mix of slower switch backs, some open places where you could give it some juice, small jumps, and several free ride areas. Our tour guide was Joe, and he was funny, very nice (especially when we drifted off trail several times and needed to get unstuck), and will definitely ask for him specifically next time. If you can afford it, its a lot easier to drive a sled with one person, especially if you are going to rip a little bit. Highly recommend this tour company.
Steve Davis — Google review
This was one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had in my life. The 2 hour tour was great. We had a chance to have some fun and really let loose which was awesome! Tyson, our tour guide, was the best part of the tour with his upbeat and welcoming attitude. He made the experience that much better! Request him if you decide to book a tour here. Definitely will come back for a longer tour. Thank you Monarch Snowmobile Tours!
It's a cool place to pick up some swag from monarch ski resort without going up in the hill. Salida is a super fun town, so go grab a coffee from down the street and take a walk. This store closes a few weeks after the ski resort opens so get in while you can. Staff was friendly and courteous.
Billy Nieminen — Google review
Quick and easy interaction to purchase Monarch season tickets.
Mindy Nelson — Google review
Got my ticket for the next day staff was very helpful
bear hilliard — Google review
Friendly staff, able to obtained our Monarch pass with ease.
Elegant mountain lodging with a spa, hot spring pools, sport courts & on-site dining.
We had a great time at Mount Princeton! Every staff member was delightful, helpful, and took care of us. The creek side pools were really nice for a natural feel, and the upper Japanese style pools were nice for the views! Great geothermal heat from this hot spring. The on-site juice bar and steak house were delicious and made it convenient to not have to leave the resort for anything. It wasn’t too crowded, and hopefully the resort keeps a monitor on the number of guests admitted to provide this relaxing environment. We can’t wait to come back.
Logan Einhorn — Google review
This was our third stay at this resort and the best one, partly because it was not crowded. Check in was friendly and efficient. The Creekside room was comfortable and cozy with the fireplace. Could use some interior decorating though. Also, there is no light in the desk area. The pools were wonderful and clean as always, had a great massage (Jamie). The women's changing room is too small, can easily get very crowded in there. We always enjoy the restaurant, the food and service are excellent. However, we did not like the extra charge for the bread ($9.00). If someone spends $130 for a dinner shouldn't this be included? We did order it but it was dry and nothing special. Overall, we definitely recommend this resort!
Indra Hudson — Google review
Can't say much about the rooms because we live close enough to only need a day pass. I can't stress enough how beautiful the mountain views on the way up and also while you're there.
There are 4 different pools you can choose from that are all heated. The upper pools are more kid friendly with a slide you have to pay an extra 7$ for unlimited use.
Sometimes the access to the hot spring in the river is closed due to the spring going cold naturally.
Every time I go to this place I leave feeling so relaxed.
Christopher Mendoza — Google review
Didn't Stay at the resort, but it looks great! I LOVE coming here when I come to Colorado and I love sharing it with family and friends that I bring as guests! Playing in the creek is always the best time! The pools are so warm and inviting! A great time is always to be had when we visit. Thank you!
Angela Macon — Google review
We went to hot springs on the day pass- it was very nice and relaxing. Five kids age 8-16. They loved it. We did not pay extra for the slide- kids were fine without it. The slide looked slow and geared for younger kids.
I read several negative reviews that I want to address - many said water was dirty. It is a natural hot springs with dozens of people in the pool. I did not find it exceptionally dirty but you should expect it is not perfectly clean. Yes, expect they are a little understaffed so staff on duty might be a little overwhelmed. I thought they were friendly enough.
I found the whole experience amazing and unique to soak in natural springs at the base of some amazing mountains. We loved the natural cold pools along the river. Bring your own towels if you can, because towels are an extra charge. We tried to get our money’s worth and spent 5 hours there and some kids still didn’t want to leave. We brought our own food for lunch and had a picnic in the grass by the upper pool. Highly recommend it!
Ryan Stewart — Google review
Booked this place last minute for an overnight stay with my daughter. We were so impressed. The rooms were impeccable, and the views were priceless. Staring at the Milky Way at night was mind-blowing.
We spent the afternoon in 6 of their 15+ hot spring pools. Temperature offerings range from casual cozy to scalding hot. Sitting in the creek while basking in a natural hot spring was a new experience for us. It's amazing how the earth offers its own spa experience.
To boot, they have a nice cold dunk pool. 30 seconds in there, and you'll be refreshingly renewed.
The resort offers a great steak house restaurant, and a snack shop convenience store with good pizza. The adult spa has towels, a sauna, a steam room, showers, and key code lockers.
Off resort, Nathrop is 15 minutes down a lovely mountain drive offering several restaurants.
I'll definitely book this place again. Hope you do too.
Shanna Bremer — Google review
Buyer beware. If paying with a credit card, you get charged an additional 3.99% of your lodging. This does not show up on your folio receipt. Stupid as it is, bring a check and save yourself some money. We would have saved almost $90. This is a new policy within the last 2 months. The cabin was nice and slept 6 people easily. The fireplace heater did not turn on. Those tend to be finicky anyways. The pools were delightful and we saw a lot of wildlife.
Nichole Rairigh — Google review
My daughter and I went up for the day on Mother's day for brunch and to soak in the pool. We knew that it was going to be a great time and we were not wrong! Brunch was absolutely amazing! The food and service were perfect! The Chef's creations exceeded any kind of expectation we could have had, as did Irene. She added such a personal touch to our day that meant so much to both of us! Thanks so much to everyone involved!
Lauren Duncan — Google review
We got married here on 10/15, and had the best experience possible! This is the most gorgeous venue and the nicest staff to work with! The chef is amazing. I don’t think he could make a bad meal if he tried. We did prime rib carved at the buffet and multiple people said it was the best wedding meal they’ve ever had. The cabins are adorable and the bridal party and groomsmen got ready in 2 different cabins. This venue is great because all of your guests can lodge on site. Plus, hot springs make for a perfect daytime activity! We did our ceremony in the lawn and reception in the pavilion. Wish I could go back and live it again! Thank you, Zelma and everyone at Mt. Princeton for the best possible experience. Can’t wait to come back to visit!
Anne Matelski — Google review
The restaurant is amazing food and excellent staff! The mirage pool is the only one with seating area to be in and the perfect temperature. Morning time is best time for that pool. No crowds and cooler for the hot springs enjoyment. The room was great but staff needs to swap the fridge door to open away from the wall and TV hanging in room 93 is coming out of the wall bracket. Needs some maintenance. The river running by the room balcony at night was refreshing and beautiful. The bike rentals are complimentary but that's because they are basic and you have to ride 4 miles up the 2 lane highway to get to the 7 mile trail. Definitely not an easy ride.
Amy W — Google review
First visit, and I'm in love! The pools are just beautiful. You can soak for hours. The river pools are a bit of a climb and clamber to get to, but so worth it. The restaurant is First class! Highly recommended you eat at least one meal there.
Kimberley Clark — Google review
The spa's are magical on every level. The stream isn't warm as it appears, they pump the heated spring water into the stream and have created "pool" areas that are a joy to spend time in. They have water flowing over you that feels magical.
The facilities are second rate and not worth the price of admission. The attention to detail is budget and for the price they demand here quite the disappointment. The rooms are budget, tables don't match chairs, trim work isn't done by a carpenter and the facilities are lacking in maintenance and care in a big way. The area and views are magical. The furniture and bedding are budget so you're going for the springs only, don't expect a resort experience in the buildings or grounds.
Michael Chadwick — Google review
stayed for two nights in the creek side suites. the room was awesome, very clean and comfy!
the restaurant was amazing and the all the pools were great! if you stay at the resort there is a guest only pool and hot tubs and you can go the infinity pool and water slide 2 hours before they open to day use guests. awesome.
the staff is what drove my 5-star rating. every single person was helpful and kind. Jen who checked us in was the absolute best! Jen, hope u have a great and safe hike up La Plata!
Russell Brown — Google review
The only bad thing I have to say about this stunning hot springs resort is that I miss when it was more affordable and less well known. It's not an excessively fancy place, but it's clean, well put together, and very nice while maintaining the relaxed, laid back environment it's famous for. The entire staff is lovely with Kelly at the spa being a stand out. My other half got the hot stone massage and raves about it still
jack — Google review
I was here for a work training and it was incredible. The rooms were spacious and a lot of them had amazing views of the chalk cliffs and the mountains. They have a great event venue, especially for weddings! The springs themselves were great as well and they do have a cold pool you can dip in if you get a little hot. There’s also a bar with great mixed drinks to help you unwind that much more.
Levi Reisinger — Google review
Such a great getaway spot. From the view, to the rooms and customer service. Every aspect was fantastic. The creekside suits are amazing with a fully stocked kitchen, 2 wardrobes, a back patio.. I adored it. My only suggestion for this room would be them adding some sort of table or shelf in the bathroom for your necessities. There was no where to set my make up, hair tools, toothbrushes, skin care etc. But other than that, it was great. Every single staff member i met was pleasant and kind and helpful. The pools, spa, locker rooms, showers were so clean and functional. I loved everything about our stay.
Nicole Hopkins — Google review
I paid $450 for one of the worst hotel experiences I had. The location is nice, but for a hot springs, they are dramatically overpriced, and their efforts to churn as many people through as they can ruins the experience. We were not able to use any of the hot springs, as check in starts at 4pm, and their infinity pool, and seemingly largest area, closes at 5pm, not re-opening until 9am, so if you are going, expect it to be more day-use.
The other pools, closer to the lodge, and the river, were packed, constantly. We tried 3 times to go find a spot, but the throngs of people made it impossible. We waited about 45 minutes for a spot in the river, but never got one, as once people get a spot they seemed to settle into it for hours. There was some room in the two swimming pools, but they are just heated swimming pools.
When I got to the lodge, we were next in line for check in. I stood for 25 minutes as the desk receptionist talked to a couple, oblivious of the line of 10 people behind me getting bigger by the moment. I was polite when I got to the counter, but the level of service I got was much different, and she rushed me through in less than two minutes, not really giving much information - which is ok, maybe she could tell I was frustrated by waiting 25 minutes for one guest check in.
They called and asked if everything was ok with the room about an hour after checking in, which was nice. The room was spacious and had a good view, though there is a lot of half-finished construction projects around the location that made it feel like they were growing faster than they could keep up with.
The problem with this hotel can be summed up with one issue - greed. The number of people going through this establishment is of a far higher volume than they can sustain, and the hours with which they schedule their pool opening and closings make it almost impossible for single-night guests to enjoy their experience.
In the end, it was $450 for a hotel who's facilities we couldn't use due to the throngs of people everywhere.
Bryon Taylor — Google review
We were hoping to enjoy a nice day at the spa/hot springs, worry free. Instead, we had nearly all of our most valuable belongings STOLEN out of the lockers in the upscale, adults area - engagement ring, wedding ring, class ring, other jewelry, cash. Several other guests had cash stolen or lockers opened as well, and we've been told by authorities and employees that these break-ins have happened before. The issues have not been fixed and now we are suffering for it. I hope to spare the rest of you.
After paying $300 for services I would expect the lockers to work. Unfortunately, after being robbed, we tried four different lockers to make sure it wasn't just ours that had the issue, and all of them were defective. The resort has been extremely unhelpful in talking with us (rarely responding to calls/emails), nor have they made us feel like they are doing anything to locate the missing items, covering the cost of the losses or preventing it from happening in the future. Not to mention the fact that we lost substantial sentimental value with each of these pieces. Now, they aren't responding to our calls or emails as we try to get paperwork sorted with insurance.
I will never visit this place again. I've been to several other spas where I can actually relax for far cheaper. Spare yourselves the trouble and just don't do it.
Taylor Shelnutt — Google review
Great place for relaxing and vacation with family and friends. We liked this place!
The rooms are clean and well maintained.
Staff is helpful, polite, respectful, and caring.
Overall management is good, except the safety precautions are not being followed by management, hence reducing one star in the rating.
We didn't use the restaurant as it required reservations. However, there are lots of good restaurants and food chains available at Buenos Vista town that are just 12-15 minutes away from this resort.
Abhinay Barge — Google review
It's not that Mount Princeton is bad. It's just not a $4xx/night place.
The rooms (creek side suites) felt more like a cheap, grimy apartment. The layout is inefficient, the finishes are cheap and poorly installed, the furniture is showing wear, the refrigerator door opened into the wall, and all the corners of the place were filled with grime, something that could be taken care of with a good cleaning.
The resort itself is spread out with less than adequate sidewalks, so you find yourself driving from place to place to avoid the massive pickup trucks that seem so popular out there. The sidewalks and stairs that do exist are crumbling and often missing railings, but the grounds appear reasonably maintained.
The staff were, for the most part, friendly and helpful but only within their domain. When I asked the front desk staff why people were in the spa pool before opening time, and how we could sign up for whatever activity that was, I was met with a "I don't work down there" followed by a sarcastic "I'm up here, not down there" when I pushed the issue. Asking the staff at the spa if I could return my towel to the front desk was met with a simple "I don' t know". The morning we arrived for water yoga, the instructor didn't show up. No one seemed to care because it wasn't their department.
After experiencing all this, we had low hopes for the restaurant, but it was surprisingly good! While not mind blowing, it was solid with great service. Just know that the courses are massive, so it's easy to over order.
In the end, after having experienced many great hotels and resorts around the world, I have a hard time justifying the price when I can fly somewhere cool, pay something similar, and feel like it's worth it.
Chris Vader — Google review
Wonderful experience. Kids loved it. Rooms were decent (floor was a little dirty and bathroom vent really needed dusting) but beds were clean and wonderful. Gorgeous restaurant patio. If you stay here you should head up to st. Elmo and feed the chipmunks.
Joshua Shimandle — Google review
We unfortunately did not have a relaxing experience at Mt Princeton. The pools were crowded, the vibe was more rowdy / party than low-key and the facilities (other than the pools themselves) were dated and even messy at times. While the scenery was beautiful, the actual grounds of the resort are really just a sprawling parking lot. For $400+ / night (Hillside room) our beds were very uncomfortable, the on-site restaurant was mediocre (and not inexpensive), and we were honestly so disappointed that we decided to just leave early the next day instead of staying for a second round of soaking / pool time.
The one bright spot was the staff, who were very nice and accommodating when we had to make a last-minute adjustment to our reservation. I just wish that sense of hospitality extended to a more consistent attention to detail and quality.
Carly DeFilippo — Google review
Stopped in here on our road trip, it was pricey for the room we got but we were glad they had something available last min on a Friday night. We had lunch and dinner here both meals were very good and great service! The springs weren’t as hot as I would have liked but they said it was cuz the rain they just had. And would have been nice for the price to have access to them later than 9p. I have been having back/hip issues so I got a massage by Lance. He did such. Great job I went in to the massage barely being able to move and came out feeling great! Definitely recommend him if you’re having any issues! Maybe not for a deep tissue I did not get that. He did more of a therapeutic massage. Overall it was a nice time and experience.
Tara Zenker — Google review
I would recommend bringing SOME groceries - resort location is a bit isolated, and the next town with dining options is at least 20 minutes away.
Dinner prices at the restaurant are a little steep, but breakfast and lunch options were more reasonable, and breakfast on the deck with a mountain view was a delight. We didn't eat any real food at the poolside snack bar, but having some soft serve after a dip in the pools was super refreshing!
Country store was modest, but had a lot of snack options and some basics.
Caroline Kazukenus — Google review
This is my favorite hotsprings to come to when I want to get away. Out in the mountains with beautiful views, fresh air and serenity. The price is worth it, from 9am-9pm there's plenty of different tubs and pools to choose from and even when there's a lot of people its still pretty quiet and peaceful. A great date night spot.
Summer G — Google review
The hot springs are small and quiet, set alongside amazing views, and the experience of soaking in the creek is so fun. Staff are very friendly and accommodating. Unfortunately I can’t rate the rooms as well. For what we paid, the value was definitely in the activities. Our room was clean and spacious, but we could hear our neighbor’s voices and alarms, pillows were lumpy and the mattress felt like it was on its way out.
Jon Watters — Google review
One of our favorite places to relax and unwind. The entire staff is friendly and very helpful. The hot springs is beautiful and lots of options to choose from. You have different temperatures and big pools, creek side pods and adult only areas. The restaurant is amazing!!! We left our iPad behind and called to ask them to ship it back. They happily packed it up very well and shipped it out that day for us. Highly recommend this place for a great getaway.
Shari Nomady — Google review
We stayed 2 nights in the main lodge in late December and enjoyed the beauty of a fresh snowfall and the convenience of the on premises restaurant and hot springs. The restaurant is nice and open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We ate there two nights and one morning; everything we had was very good and prices were on par with being at a resort. Nice to just walk back to our room after a great meal. The rooms were comfortable and nice but a little worn in a few spots like carpet and creaking floors. The bathrooms in the hotel rooms are a little small and the coffee pot is right next to bathroom sink which isn’t ideal. Room service was good and they kept the room well stocked with towels and coffee. The bathhouse has lockers that are paid or free with the rooms. You only get one towel per person and bring sandals or something to go to and from the bathhouse, especially if going down to the small pools by the river. Staff were all friendly and nice. Overall a great value if you are wanting to enjoy the hot springs and some good food.
Nick Baker — Google review
The springs are beautiful, with many options. We had a cabin with pros and cons. It was well equiped, but quirky. For example, there is no place to hang wet clothes and towels and the dishwasher was mediocre. Huge cobwebs and dust in the windows was gross, but the rest of the cabin was clean and nice. Plenty of room and a great location.
Customer service is hit or miss. Some staff are friendly and helpful and some are impatient and disinterested.
This is a very relaxing getaway and I highly recommend it overall!
Marla B — Google review
Took a family trip for Spring Break and we had the BEST time! Cody checked us in and he was SO NICE ❤️ We really enjoyed our stay on the property. The pool was so nice and we really appreciated that everything was plowed and accessible after a foot of snow. Thanks so much for your hospitality, we will definitely be back!
Jennifer Clark — Google review
What an amazing experience! The condo we stayed in on the property was incredibly well maintained. Older beds but otherwise fantastic. The staff was excellent as were the facilities. The restaurant was delicious for both lunch and dinner. The servers were on point, especially Kyle at dinner who was my best server I’ve experienced in a long time.
Don’t miss this for a romantic or family getaway!
Truly one of the most amazing experiences we’ve had in our lives. KC was the kindest and most gentle guide. He filled our hearts full to the brim with this awesome adventure at sunset. We crossed rivers, trotted, and went up and down steep inclines. Seriously cant express how great our time here was. If you book, ask for KC!🤍
Lauren Phariss — Google review
My mom had a great ride here. She's been riding for a long time, but she still enjoyed the one hour ride. It wasn't just a boring trail ride where the horses know where they're going and don't really care what you want. She said they went across the river a few times, saw great views of the mountains, and had a very pleasant time. She loved the wranglers who were with them. We booked online and had no trouble. Everything worked out perfectly. Highly recommend!
Valerie Miller — Google review
We had such an amazing time at Hot Springs Stables. The owner and the ranch hands were so welcoming and made our experience one to remember. 2 hours was not long enough, we will definitely going back to do a half day or even a full day ride with them soon. This is a must stop if you are in the area.
Mike Cignarale — Google review
Me and my two kiddos (7 and 10) came for the sunset ride and it was incredible! Our guide, Kaiden (Caiden?), was laid back and friendly and made the kids feel safe and ensured we all had fun! We were only supposed to walk, but we got to do quite a bit of trotting once the boys were comfortable and it made our whole trip!
We saw deer and a coyote, got to cross the river more than once, and had some absolutely stunning views.
Would highly recommend to anyone!
Christina LaRosa — Google review
Definitely a must experience!!!! The owner was very welcoming and knowledgeable. Our wrangler was great! Cory went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and confident from start to end.
Beautiful views....and great memories were created! Thank you, @coloradotailrides.com
Robert Torres — Google review
If you are looking for something close by to the area, go horseback riding! Our guide was AMAZING at pointing out view points and give us facts around the area. They help by picking the horse that suits you best! We loved our 2 hour ride & felt very comfortable through out it! Definitely worth it all!
Albanie Hersh — Google review
Great experience. Staff was awesome, horses were well trained. We took the 60 minute trail and we got about 70 minutes out of it. Facility is small but clean. It looks like they can handle pretty large parties and have multiple trail lengths ( 1, 2 hr as well as 3/4 and full day). Scenery made it worth it all. Great views!
Tyler Dixon — Google review
Great staff, very pleasant and give good advice. The horses are well trained and clearly well cared for. I’m a first time rider at age 46. I went on the 1 hour trail ride and it was a great experience.
Jenny Crane — Google review
We did the 3/4 day ride. Absolutely beautiful trail. It was a bit nerve wracking in a few spots and I am an experienced rider. I had inexperienced riders that made it but there were times their nerves almost bested them. The horses behaved for the most part and we all enjoyed it. The waterfall was gorgeous. The wranglers were great! I highly recommend but be prepared for sore muscles.
I also recommend getting there early. We arrived 15 minutes early and still did not get to the trail until an hour after our initial appointment time due to them needing to prep the horses selected for each individual and their experience level. We never felt rushed on the ride though. The wranglers went at our pace. Again, I highly recommend!
Tierney Stigall — Google review
What a great place! I did the 2-hour sunset ride and had an amazing time. Our wrangler, Jess, was friendly, inviting, and easygoing. The trail was fun, the horses were kind and well-trained, the scenery was beautiful. And can't forget the barn cats!
No complaints here.
Liam Moore — Google review
We took a ride with The Princeton Stables yesterday and what a fantastic ride it was!! We had the best guide ever in Dave and the horses were amazing! We rode on Moose, Rodeo, and Clifford and wish we could take them home with us! The scenery was perfect and crossing the river was so cool!!! Thanks again to our guide Dave and Ralph for taking us on this ride!!! We’ll be back!!
Travis Blackwell — Google review
Dave and Dillion did a great job for our 2 hr ride. They did a great job on instructions and were very social during the ride. The ride was fun and exciting. Domino and Feather were great horses to ride. Highly recommend! This was a very relaxing few hours with beautiful scenery.
April Hess — Google review
We had Casey as our guide. He was great! We did the waterfall ride. If you haven't been on a horse before, I wouldn't take this. There are some very small trails going up the mountain and it could scare some people. If you have riden before, it's a great view! The horses we took were great. Thanks Casey for a great time.
Robbie and Kristen
robert dotson — Google review
Great 2 hour trail ride with Corey. Really enjoyed our horses, Trigger and Chile. Look forward to being in the area again to book a longer ride!
Caleb Collins — Google review
This was an amazing ride! We did the 3/4 day ride. It was beautiful and the horses were great! Our guide, Casey was fantastic!!
Dabecka Kirk — Google review
We had the best time on our 2 hour ride. Lee, our wrangler, was such a wonderful guide - personable, curious, and knowledgeable about both horses and the terrain. The trail offered stunning views. We would absolutely do this again! Highly recommend!
Allison Buzard — Google review
My wife and I were the only ones on our ride and we went with Corey and he was great. He was easy to talk to throughout, answered questions, and helped out as needed. The route was absolutely beautiful. We went up and down the mountains and through water. As semi beginners, two hours were plenty bc we were sore at the end but it was a really awesome time with our horses, our guide, and the views.
Ross Browning — Google review
Hands down the BEST trail ride ever! We did the 3/4 day ride up to the waterfall with a packed lunch and the views were breathtaking! KC aka the good Kevin but AMAZING!! He made the whole experience unforgettable. I can't wait to come back and do a ride when there is snow on the ground. It was about 2 hours from Denver but SO worth the drive. The views on the way were unbelievable as well which made the time go by. I would 1000% recommend to everyone!
Lizz Kilby — Google review
I had the best time yesterday! My son and husband didn’t want to join me so I went on a group adventure 2 hour ride solo with several other families. Amazing views, sweet tour guides there’s nothing like this anywhere else, I’ve done several trail rides in my time but this was by far the best. The trail guides were so good with the children on the tour AJ let them talk her head off and she even took pictures of me for me! The owner was a sweetheart! All around amazing!
Mallory Hall — Google review
I had a great experience and can not wait to come back again and do a longer ride. The staff was so nice and helpful in getting my mother on the horse and feeling comfortable. She wasn't able to complete the ride but we consider it a win and she was able to get it knocked off her bucket list on her birthday. Jessie is so sweet I enjoyed chatting with her and was pleased to know she is and knows horsemanship. Horses are beautiful and well trained, taken care of in my opinion. ❤️i rode charming ✌️ 🐎
That's Tonya — Google review
This was such an amazing place, both the Ranch and the land we traveled around. My daughter and I plus the family had so much fun riding and it was the best time riding horses with her. Dave was so great at leading and providing a great experience. He is a great rider also! Great to see how welcome the guides make you feel. They'll do anything to improve your ride or teach you how to get to know your horses. Top notch job Dave and The crew. Can't forget the young guys and all great wranglers we met and helped us get going. I highly recommend this place and we will be back.
Pete Chilimindris — Google review
This place is a rare gem! The owner (who looks like Sam Elliot) was so kind and has been doing this business since he was 17! Everything is thoughtfully curated. They choose your horse based on your skill level. The cowboys + wranglers were very helpful and told amazing dad jokes. They accommodated everyone from children to adults very well. I highly recommend for an authentic trail riding experience!!
Twin Lakes is a small community situated in Lake County, Colorado. It is an unincorporated town that serves as a census-designated place and post office. The ZIP code assigned to the Twin Lakes post office is 81251. As a governing body, Lake County oversees the affairs of this peaceful community nestled in the heart of Colorado's mountainous region.
4.5
(183)
Colorado 81251, USA
I'll never travel to Breckenridge without this trip planner again
We had such an awesome time for the 2hr ride! My fiancé has never been on a horse before (he was very scared) and the tour guides were very helpful and accommodating. They held his hand throughout the entire process. In the end, he LOVED it and would want to go again. The horses are very well trained and friendly. We can’t wait to go back!
Kendal Sheckler — Google review
This past weekend I took a solo vacation to Fairplay, CO and went on a two hour ride with Platte Ranch. I’ve been riding my entire life and it’s always been a dream of mine to ride in the mountains. When I’d called and talked to Amy (the owner) about making a reservation she was so helpful and extremely nice. I told her I was a very experienced rider and she promised they’d match me with a horse I would enjoy riding. When I arrived at the ranch Amy introduced me to my horse Bella and we were the perfect match!! Our guides that day were Jill, Josh and Mike all three of them were very accommodating and so very nice. They chatted with all the riders during the entire ride, once we got to the top of the mountain they took pictures of everyone and told us about the history of the ranch and the surrounding areas. We got to ride around the top of the mountain for a bit before we started our decent. Once we got to the bottom Mike gave us the option of which way we wanted to go back to the barn.
The ride was absolutely beautiful and definitely something I will remember forever. I’ll be going back to visit and ride again. I however will be requesting a 4 hour ride with Jill for my next ride. 🥰
Allisha Cash — Google review
My partner and I did a private ride back in September 2022 to see the fall colors. It was absolutely the best trail ride either of us have been on! I rode Bella and she was an amazing combination. Because both he and I have ridden before, we were able to move above a walk and actually trot, canter, gallop where the footing allowed. It was great to not be stuck in a nose-to-tail trail ride with a ton of people. The scenery was beautiful and our guide was amazing, fun and easy to talk to, and educational about the land. I’m not awesome with names but I wish I remembered hers! Her dogs also came along and it was so great to see how happy they were to run alongside and explore with the horses. Our goal is to come back for a winter ride sometime. 😊 Winter or otherwise, we will definitely be back!
Devin S — Google review
Mid December 2023 review
We enjoyed this place so much during the fall (review below) that we came back during our ski trip to do a family ride with Amy and her wranglers who did an excellent job and made the ride and conversation enjoyable and fun. We did a two hour ride in the snow on a sunny but cool day. It was nice to be able to ride to your comfort level and work on your horsemanship, which mine was a little rusty, but the wranglers don’t mind or give you a hard time. It was a memorable time for my family and all enjoyed it a lot. If you are going to be in the area call ahead and do a ride. Prices are great and the experience is top notch.
Early October 2023 review
Took my family to see the horses even though we didn’t have a ride scheduled and the owner (Amy) was super nice and accommodating to let my children pet the horses and give them treats and just hang out with us and chat for a while about the ranch and what they do there. They take in and keep rescue horses in addition to the trail rides and keep them there to live out their lives. It is a family owned ranch and not a corporate enterprise and you can tell because the people treat you and the animals well and are happy you are there. We will definitely be coming back to do a ride soon.
Nick Baker — Google review
My friends and I had an amazing ride at Platte Ranch. The wranglers did a great job pairing us each with horses to match our expertise (or lack there of in my case). We learned how to trot and gallop and overall felt very confident on our horses. The valley we rode in offers amazing views of several different mountain ranges too. Highly recommend!
Tyler — Google review
The horseback riding here is incredible. The horses were fun and well behaved. The guides were very nice, experienced and had tons of great information about the area to share. The views were absolutely fantastic. There is nothing more you could ask for on a horse back riding trip.
Drew S — Google review
We had the best time!!! Phenomenal guides, beautiful horses, and breathtaking landscape.
Megan Mackowiak — Google review
Amy and her crew were excellent! We loved our visit, and they made it extra special for our boys. Great horses, excellent views, and a wonderful time. Highly recommend!
Philip Johnson — Google review
This was the BEST horse ride we have done on a vacation! Tiger was the best guide! He told us stories and gave us a little history lesson as well. We were very well educated about Colorado by the end of our ride. The views were spectacular and do not get me started on when they let the horses run! It was so much fun! We had a blast and we are very grateful for the experience. We had done horse back riding at the Garden of the Gods and I have to be honest this one was way better!
Marisol Villanueva — Google review
Hands down the best guided horse tour my family has been on. Our group had many different levels of riders and we were all accommodated with well trained horses. The guides were super friendly and excited to be with us!
Austin Wilson — Google review
Did a horseback ride to celebrate my daughter's birthday at Platte Ranch. It was a great experience primarily due to their guides Kaeli and Mike. They took the time to get acquainted with everyone in our group, and provided the best instruction and advice. By the end of the ride we all felt like we were made for riding.
David Nunnally — Google review
My wife and i cant say enough good about this place. My wife and I have enjoyed Platte Ranch twice now. The guides are great and make the ride so enjoyable. The scenery is amazing. The horses and dogs are the best!
Mark Stern — Google review
I cannot recommend Platte Ranch enough! My sister and I visited twice for 2 hour rides. Kaylee was our wrangler for both rides and she was AMAZING! She was super knowledgeable about the horses, the ranch, even threw in a little history lesson about the land, and she brought her super cute dog along for the ride! The scenery was astonishing, seriously like something you’d see in movies. The horses were all great! I rode Teaspoon for our first day, he was awesome (although his trot definitely made me sore)🤣! And I got to ride Bella for our last visit, she was just as awesome and her canter was super fun! I really enjoyed the small groups for the rides, it felt a lot more relaxed and very enjoyable. If you’re thinking about visiting Platte Ranch, you absolutely should!!
Nora C — Google review
I have been horseback riding in the FairPlay area for several years now and after a very scary experience with one of the ranches in the area, I searched for a new place I could enjoy trail and backcountry riding again.
Platte Ranch is truly a special place to enjoy the beauty of these majestic mountains. The guides are fantastic! They care about their horses well-being and health and take excellent care of them.
Each of the guides thoughtfully create the perfect horse and human match for the perfect riding experience that is safe for each and every guest.
I brought a friend visiting from out of state with me on this last excursion- and it was a day we will truly enjoy remembering in the years to come.
Thank you Tigger for being the most wonderful guide, you all are the absolute BEST outfit in the area, and we can’t wait to enjoy the trail with you all again and again!
Dara Marvel — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience. Amy and her staff were wonderful. We had a group of 14 ages 4-70 and everyone enjoyed it. They took great care of those in our group who were less comfortable, while the others could be more adventurous. Loved every minute of the 2 hours.
Sarah Paul — Google review
Friendliest people and beautiful place! Very knowledgeable and engaging guides. We had 11 people and we were well-looked after by 3 guides who knew the horses’ personalities and quirks. They took great care pairing up each rider with a suitable horse.
Historic 1880s Gold Rush town that's now a museum with more than 40 buildings & 60,000 artifacts.
Absolutely awesome place full of great history! My family loved it and our son had a great time!
Many of these houses are from other towns and were relocated to this town for the museum. I personally loved the saloon I just wish I could hang out there longer lol. There are so many great artifacts here to show how it really was back in the day. I highly recommend this place!
Joshua Jesse — Google review
Oh this place was amazing! I love history and I've been to see these type of collections of historic buildings in several places. This was my favorite so far! The historical detail and the condition of the buildings were very much appreciated. We were also tickled about how it is set up as a town in the 1800s, wooden sidewalks and all! Even my kids (4 & 9) had a blast! Perhaps best of all, they allow you to bring your dog with you. It was a day well spent in my family!
Valerie — Google review
What an amazing place! Like stepping back in time. The best thing is the interactivity of the various displays. We had watched a special, on PBS, about this place, and HAD to go see it. Definitely worth the trip! We will certainly be going back and will probably purchase a lifetime family membership, because this place deserves to be kept operating for future generations!
Dubs Montgomery — Google review
The places is absolutely awesome! Incredibly preserved local Colorado history with period displays. Very tastefully restored and stocked with period items (many local). A feast for all ages. Climb on historic trains, descend into an underground mine display, see the 'old theatre', enter into all historical buildings and structures. A great outing all around! More in depth stories can be found on South Park's YouTube channel as well!
L P — Google review
Host was very friendly and knowledgeable. Information in each building is very detailed and interesting. You can definitely take a step back in time. We just missed the guided night time spooky tour... Check schedule if that's your thing!
Wendy Best — Google review
This place was a really nice find, especially if you want to see a glimpse of history as it was in an old mining town from the 1800's. We spent about an hour and a half here and ran out of time, so we only got to see about half of it. If you like this kind of stuff, it should be on your "can't miss it" list.
Dean Bohl — Google review
This is recommended if you like looking at what mining used to be and how people lived in this mining town. The mannequins look very lifelike and they exhibits look like they’re still here in the 21st century even though some of the stuff is a bit ruined. The museum is very educational and you should definitely come here if you have nothing to do.
C4TT0 (Caracal_lover) — Google review
Wonderful museum, much more interesting and a lot more to see than I expected! This is a series of buildings that you get to walk through and experience different historical exhibits that are set up. It’s a great experience that feels a lot like going back in time and experiencing things as they were in the late 1800s. Very, very much worth the admission!
If you’re looking to get a feel for this area’s history, this is the place to start.
Brian Carter — Google review
Spent about 2 hours here, loved every minute of it! Kids had a blast and learned a lot about life in the 1800s. Will definitely be back. If you're visiting then this is a must while you're here!!
Abigail Gomez — Google review
It is absolutely incredible. So much thought was put into this. We took our 4 kids and they really enjoyed it. Perfect day trip from Denver. I will definitely go back.
sonya statz — Google review
So many examples of buildings from the past. Everything from a train depot to a mine to a barber shop, family home, boarding house, bank, school... I could've spent all day, so much to see! And the staff were very fiendly, too.
A — Google review
Great Museum!! Took my teens and they seemed to really enjoy themselves! Love that it's an open walkable museum because you are able to almost stand right in the past's shoes. The employees seemed to really love their jobs and are so friendly! Went in on the 4th to be greeted by Uncle Sam! Spent an hour or more walking through and taking lots of pictures. Love the gift shop, another great employee. Felt really free to look around before really deciding what to get and left with both teens EXCITED to come back!
Nicole M — Google review
Such a great museum! Reasonably priced for families with kids. Nicely kept and very informative. A must see for Colorado natives and travelers.
Alli Wilber — Google review
This was the coolest museum we happened upon. Makes you really feel like your back in the old wild west!
Jordyn Steinheiser — Google review
This was one of best stops of our trip! E searched many days for cool ghost towns but this is a fully restored town with real buildings and artifacts and really gives you the experience of an old west town. The kids loved it and the price was only $10 or so each, so it was a great value! There were even QR codes on the wall linked to YouTube videos of more in depth material on the different buildings. Such a cool experience!
Randy Spaulding — Google review
This is a must-stop if you are traveling to this area. Likely the traffic during high season will make to stop to take a break, and a walk thru the museum is perfect for stretching and learning some history while you're at it. Also, very important to note: it has accesses ramps (strollers and wheelchairs), and pets are welcome. So bring the whole family! (just be careful/kind with the local kitties)
The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum is a popular tourist destination in Leadville, Colorado. This museum showcases a replica of a mine, various minerals, and even features an interactive model railroad exhibit. Visitors are advised to bring water and pain medication due to the high altitude. The exhibits cater to every age group with plenty of opportunities for learning about mining history and mineral samples from different places around the world. It is definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.
This museum has a little bit for everybody. The woman who worked there knew exactly where to direct us so our boys (6&3) would have fun. We went late in the afternoon on a Saturday this spring and were the only ones in there for a bit. Worth checking out if you're in the area.
Jenna Guild — Google review
This is an amazing museum filled with history. The displays are amazing with so many different minerals, polished stones, meteorites, and even moon rocks. This is a walk at your own pace (5 floor Museum). You can spend a good 1-2 hours here if you read each story line under the pictures. There is also a gift shop on the premises.
Raff Anthony — Google review
A good amount of super cool rock displays, but they have a bit of glare most of the time for high definition pictures. Lots of cool history about mining processes and mining history too. Set in Leadville, a high altitude town with great views.
Gadolinium64 — Google review
Pretty large museum of mining. Many interesting exhibitions. I was surprised that not many visitors. Mostly they geology and history of mining.
Reception lady was very helpful to give us information about Leadville area. Must visit if you are in the area. Beautiful historic mining town.
Ari Rang — Google review
Be aware as a tourist not from Colorado, Leadville is at a high altitude, so bring water and advil. You'll be out of energy faster than you realize. Especially walking through this museum. Lots to see on different levels of the building. The interactive mines that they have are very cool. All the mineral samples from different places. There is a lot to learn. We had a great time.
Vanessa Hines — Google review
This museum is a pretty neat experience. There are a lot of things to look at and read. The walk through of their mine exhibit is probably the best part. My only grievance with this place is the admission price: $14 is too steep a price for what is here. I understand this is Colorado and all but $8-$10 is the only reasonable price. The young lady at the admission counter is very nice and friendly, the woman in the gift shop didn't even speak to us, so you definitely have both ends of the friendliness spectrum covered. Overall if you're in town it's a cool place to check out.
Corey Swann — Google review
Holy cow! We would need days to see everything. The underground marble quarry operation was the most interesting. Incredible. My youngest grandson liked this photo the best. 😅
Rick Morales (the Writer) — Google review
Very neat museum! As someone who works in oil & gas industry I learned a lot! Definitely a must go if you are ever in the area.
J C — Google review
Much more inside to look at than you would guess from the outside. It doesn't just include one form of mining, but many different kinds, and just from this area, but from all over the world. If you really wanted to watch all that is there, you could spend hours, we probably spent a couple of hours there. It is like a maze and has a total of 5 levels. Many interesting things to look at.
Terry Lytle — Google review
I went as part of a group of 10 adults. We stayed for 3 hours & all enjoyed the museum. While we were there, a school group was also there, which made the 3rd floor a noisy place for awhile.
The first entrance we tried was locked & it confused us because it was 45 minutes after the museum should have opened for the day. Turns out that's the summer entrance. The non-summer entrance is on one end of the building. While inside the museum, I witnessed several other visitors trying to access the building using the "summer entrance", I'm not sure why they can't use the same entrance year-round? I guess it's probably because the gift shop is located next to the non-summer entrance ticket desk?
Exhibits included information about the Ice Palace (only lasted a few months before melting, you can visit the park where it was located- it is behind the museum), Climax Mine (about 15 minutes away), mining safety gear, and the Tabors. The 3rd floor had an interesting assortment of exhibits: a model railroad (it was out of order, but I'm guessing when it works the train runs around the tracks), a model of the Ice Palace, approximately 20 dioramas, a mock mine tunnel, a coin with a panda on it, pictures of some kind of currency (we think it was a company town thing), and information about minerals that are in common household products. The flourescent minerals on the 1st floor were really neat! There were also some exhibits that played short films & there was an exhibit that talked about mining in space.
We did find the Hall of Fame to not be of much interest, and the members of the Hall of Fame were almost all Caucasian men from what we could tell.
There is a library on the 5th floor, which is locked unless you have an appointment, which is unfortunate because there were some absolutely beautiful stained glass windows that I would have loved to have gotten a better view of. There's also beautiful stained glass windows on the 4th floor landing where the patio door is. The patio door apparently gets stuck sometimes because there was a sign up with a number to call if you couldn't get the door to open up to get back inside.
A week before our visit I called to find out if we needed to do anything special because we were coming as a group, I was told no & that I could go ahead and buy tickets online- there was no mention that I could do it in person on the day of my visit. I then proceeded to buy the tickets online- I recommend that you do not because the woman at the ticket desk was very confused by my having already purchased tickets. When you buy online you also have to pay additional fees & my group that I was booking for has tax-exempt status but there was no indication online of how this could be accomodated so we ended up paying the tax. Also, we'd bought tickets for 4 other group members who ended up not being able to go because they didn't feel well, I emailed (on Monday) to find out if we could get a refund (our visit was Tuesday), but never received a response (it's now Friday). It was within 24 hours of our visit, but a previous email mentioned that refunds are possible due to "unforseen circumstances," so I thought I'd give it a chance.
The elevator was broken when we were there, so the museum was not handicap accessible. I don't know if the elevator is usually out of order or if this was just a rare event.
There is a gift shop next to the ticket desk on the 1st floor.
Apparently the building used to be a school.
There are a couple of picnic tables out front that you can eat at. There's no food or drinks allowed inside the museum. You also cannot bring backpacks in.
BeckyAurora Thompson — Google review
This museum is amazing. My kids loved it. So did my wife and I. We spent two or three hours there but could have spent a couple more. What a gem of a museum.
Ryan W — Google review
An amazing museum with some amazing history. If you have any interest in mining and its history this is the place for you. The had three rooms dedicated to hall of fame people who I influenced the industry. I've added a picture of the list. But the plaques are truly great.
Katie Braaton — Google review
Had an absolute blast exploring the museum with my children. Miss Teresa was such a wonderful person to be greeted by upon entry. Military discount offered for vets and active duty personnel. So much great history and exhibits.
The Leadville Railroad company offers a three-hour train ride with stunning panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley forest and Colorado's highest peaks. The train provides open air and enclosed seating, as well as the option to ride with the conductor for an additional fee. Snacks, coffee, hot dogs, big pretzels, beer and wine are available for purchase on board along with restroom facilities. Visitors can also explore Leadville's main street before or after their trip to discover its unique shops and attractions.
The staff was so attentive, the train cars were clean and we even had a surprise visit from the main man himself, Santa Claus. It was a delightful surprise. Pricing was reasonable, the views are stellar. You can even open your window in your booth area for good air flow. Just a heads up, the restrooms are port a John's, not filthy, but I didn't know so heads up! The gift shop is cute. We had a great experience!
Izzy Wagner — Google review
So glad we did this. Perfect weather and had a wonderful time. We paid a little extra for the box car and I am glad we did. The booths were comfortable and we liked having a table and large windows. The side of the train that faces the town is the one you want to be on. That side has the best views but you can also pop over to the open car for some amazing pics.
Loesch Zone — Google review
Nice but definitely lacking the refinement of similar outings. You don’t get to see the mine. It’s kind of the one thing you should see. Views are very one directional as you proceed up the valley and really only awesome in a couple places. You don’t get very high at all which is weird. The crew is super enthusiastic and entertaining. Plenty of seating. Food and snacks fine but nothing special. The town is way more fun and charming. Still it’s a must do once right?
Alan Hendricker — Google review
If you are searching for amazing views, a comfortable ride, and a great value, then this train is for you! The route is "out and back" going around a mountain. There is excellent narration giving lots of facts and stats. Food and beverage are available for purchase while the train is en route. Wonderful train trip!
Harold Miller — Google review
We had a wonderful time going on the Railroad trip for Easter! It was a 2 hour long ride, concessions & restrooms were available on board. The scenery was BEAUTIFUL! It was well worth it! The staff were very friendly & attentive during the ride.
We would have liked to have a little bit less narrative during the ride and more relaxing music. And the restrooms could use some attention.
Katelyn Pennington — Google review
If you want a great view of the mountains, from the mountains, have around 3 hours to spare, and want to learn about the area, do it.
On board they have open air seating as well as enclosed, you can even pay additional to ride with the conductor. Provided for purchase you can get an array of snacks, coffee, hot dogs and big pretzels, even a few beer/ wine options in a can.
Restrooms are also provided if needed.
My wife and I rode the entire trip in the open air seating and the views are fantastic.
Before or after, check out the main drag in Leadville and explore the shops they have to offer. If you like exploring little towns this one is cool.
We loved it and would recommend!
Sean Klosterman — Google review
The 1:30 train was a great winter treat. Each family has the ability to reserve a table in one of the indoor train cars.
The conductor was very informative and knew the history of Leadville and the train construction quite well.
We ordered hot cider, hot cocoa, and popcorn during the ride. Prices were reasonable.
This is our second trip. We also did the summer ride but this was more fun!
Brent Schmitt — Google review
I have ridden many trains and this is one of the best diesel rides in the country. It is a good length with excellent scenery any time of year and easy movement between closed cars and open cars. The conductor was so knowledgeable about the railroad and the area.
Joseph Friel — Google review
This experience was so worth it! We took our kids (11 and 8) on the fall special train ride, and everyone had such a great time! It was too early for the fall colors, but this was the only weekend we could get up there, and it didn’t make the train ride any less memorable!
The kids loved being able to get hot chocolate on the train ride and the apple cider was good too:) My husband got his apple cider spiked and he loved it. It was chilly, but sunny and we brought jackets and hats, which were needed!
They have a nice-sized concession car on board, so you can get food/drinks and momentos. I got a hoodie and a magnet. They also come around offering to take a family photo, which they were selling later for 20 dollars for one:)
The views on the ride were spectacular and the conductor was knowledgeable and fun to listen to! All of the people working were happy and helpful- you could tell they loved their job:)
If you have the chance to get out to Leadville, I highly recommend this excursion. It was a highlight of our trip and we loved it so much!
Dustin and Sarah Campbell — Google review
I think overall this is a great train ride for the price compared to other options in Colorado. Beautiful views, but the other lower ratings are correct when they mention narration in the first half of the ride. My group was actually interested in learning the history, but the noise of the train as well as passengers were much louder than the person talking. I wish it was louder or that passengers who are interested in learning have earbuds or something to listen in. I still rate this high because for the price, it was still a good experience. The train does ride slow because its a scenic ride, so 2 hours may feel long for many.
Shannyn T — Google review
My wife and I had the pleasure of taking this train ride mid-September when the railroad was offering their fall special. The train went up the mountain farther than usual to give us views of the spectacular aspens as their leaves turned golden and orange. The weather was perfect and the views of the mountains, valleys, and fall leaves was amazing. The conductor was also the tour guide and entertained us with stories regarding local lore and the history of the train and the mines it serviced. We have been on several train rides of this type and this was definitely on of our favorites!
Alfred Sanchez — Google review
Wow! What a great experience. I was not sure what to expect, but they far exceeded my expectations. The train is quite large, with multiple cars of various types. There is even a bar/snack/gift shop car which yes, sells alcohol. Optional seating (which you can change freely) are Open air train cars, enclosed cars, a dining car, restroom car and the caboose. The caboose car is for private reserve reservations BUT highly recommend.... half the train ride is in the reverse direction, so the private caboose is well worth the experience. There is a Brake Man in the Caboose which works outside but you can talk to him/her freely, and he was super nice and smart.
John — Google review
Went the first week of Aug on a Monday on the 2 PM train. Booked 11 seats for a group of friends visiting from CA and BC and family. It was raining for the first few minutes so we moved to a car with overhead cover but no windows for unobstructed views and no rain coming down on us. The conductor kept things interesting on the ride out talking about the history of Leadville and the area and the history of railroads in Leadville. Of course this history is steeped in mining and so we learned about the metals that were mined in the past to present day. Makes everything more interesting when you know the history IMO.
Train made a stop on the way back so we could stretch our legs and tour some of the old train cars no longer in use. After the stop we rode back in silence enjoying the views.
2.5 hours. Out and back. Don't recall the distance exactly but I think 22 miles total. You can bring food on the train but they also have a store that sells food on the train (and on the way back the food is heavily discounted as they need to sell it or have to toss it at the end.) On the expensive side IMO but folks liked it (so maybe I'm cheap 😀).
Suwei Wu — Google review
Wow! Was not expecting such a great ride and such wonderful service. What a great team! Loved chatting with Dawn when she was distributing her pictures. Loved the low prices in the gift shop. The narration was very interesting.
Mike Peterson — Google review
Great train ride with beautiful views through your. Good amenities (snacks and drinks on the train.). Great value compared to other train rides nearby. A little long for 2 young children, could maybe shave 20-30 min.
Alec Binder — Google review
Such a relaxing way to enjoy the changing of the leaves. Train ride was 2.5 hours with a stop in the middle at their beautiful water tower in the middle of an Aspen Grove. Great for kids. There's a little food cart for quick snacks or soda or alcohol. Parking was super easy. A must for the fall!
Shannon Robertson — Google review
We had a wonderful time aboard the Leadville Holiday Express! The staff were all intent on creating a memorable and fun experience for everyone. The hot cocoa and popcorn were great for keeping warm on a cold, November day. The scenery was spectacular! Highly recommend this trip!
johnny utah — Google review
Ride is probably an hour too long lol but otherwise it’s a great experience. Went in early October just in time to see the end of some good foliage. Loved that I could take my dog and it was a unique lovely trip. Recommend going to twin lakes when you’re close as that was truly the highlight of the day!
Monica — Google review
The Railroad is the major attraction of Leadville. The train ride through the rockies is definitely worth. I would suggest buying tickets in advance if you are visiting in the weekend. They have plenty of parking, restrooms and small souvenir shop. Must visit in Leadville. Highly recommend. The town of Leadville does not have too many food options so be ready to wait at the restaurants
Biswanath Das — Google review
It was a beautiful day for an open car train ride. The aspens were just beginning to turn their brilliant colors. It's a great view from the side of the mountain on this about 10 mile train ride.
Terry Lytle — Google review
Beautiful scenery, friendly staff, this ride will take your breath away, especially during the fall colors. The train travels 9 miles out, then back for a 2.5 hour trip. The train itself has standing, open air cars for viewing the sights. We spent most of the time there. The passenger cars are older and in rough shape, but nothing worrying - some windows won't open. If you are a dog lover, they are allowed! If not, there will be dogs onboard. Snacks are available onboard, and bathrooms, but the bathrooms are unusual.
Mountain-view rooms & cabins in a dude ranch, offering horseback riding & ATV tours.
My wife and I take winter vacations every year, we enjoy snowmobiling, snow tubing, snowshoeing, and last but definitely not least horseback riding in the snow through the trees, fields and hills. American Safari ranch has it all beautiful scenery, at times wildlife and best of all they have Nick who is a very friendly, knowledgeable, courteous and very talented individual. We have been on several horseback trips but we highly recommend ASR and definitely ask for Nick. We are planning to come back in December and already planning to get Nick.
Robert Haskew — Google review
I did the 9 am 2-hour ride and it was perfect because it wasn’t too hot yet. My horse's name was Phoenix and she did wonderfully. The wranglers Pedro and Rick were great guides and made the ride fun and made you feel safe. I loved that you could just ride and it wasn’t just a straight line of horses following each other on a trail. It was very easy to find the ranch as well. If you want a real riding experience in the mountains I would highly recommend this place.
Emily Sandvold — Google review
We had a group of three and booked a 1.5 hr trail ride. I expected the standard in a line, horses bored kind of trail ride. This was way better than expected. Our small group had our own trail guide, Pedro, which was wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and funny. We learned riding basics, history of the ranch, flora & fauna, & animals. Definitely the best trail ride I’ve ever been on. Would recommend for any riding experience level as they carefully match you to a horse.
Jeanie Rogan — Google review
we had a great horseback riding experience at American Safari Ranch with our guide Dustin. Despite a last minute reservation and rather checkered experience in our group this was not just a dull nose-to-tail around-the-barn ride - we went through wide open country, forests and streams, and definitely felt the freedom that comes with this place if you explore it on a horse. And good horses they were - everybody in our group liked their horse (Go Panda!)
Peter Mehlitz — Google review
Wow!! Where do I start. First off calling and making reservations was so easy. Gary was so nice and professional. We arrived and Gary checked us in and makes us feel very comfortable and welcome. I have been here now 3 times. But each time I bring new people. We got down to barn and these guys are pro. They match you with exactly the right horse. It’s amazing how they are so good at it. Pedro is freaking awesome. I will always request him. He is so nice and so laid back but still gives you tons of information and pointers. He’s so good to the horses and tells the best stories and jokes. I come here every year and will always come to this place for horse riding. Also a side note. Pay for the 2 hour tour. They don’t have a timer running and it’s not rushed at all.
jwillborn83 — Google review
We went horseback riding and on ATV rides. Had a blast, once in a lifetime experience. Cory was our wrangler and he was amazing! He knew the terrain so well and was very quick to guide us. He was also patient as it was my first time driving an ATV. Couldn’t recommend this place enough.
Erin Rehnke — Google review
It was just amazing to take the family out for a 1hr 30min horse back riding tour. It was wonderful scenic area we road through with Aspens, small rock formations, a beautiful stream and wide open meadows. We made our way on horse back through a meadow where we found a doe with her two fawns. We also heard Elk bugling in the distance. It was just an awe inspiring horse back ride. Our guide Pedro was extremely friendly and informative. He led us to an old home stead that was from the 1800s. He made us all feel comfortable and safe. He took a lot of amazing pictures for us as well. We all really enjoyed his stories and his warm demeanor. It was just a magical family experience; they had us ride side by side and not in a line which is unique. They also have goats, alpacas and chickens on the ranch as well. I highly recommend taking a horse back tour.
M Y — Google review
Our guide Dustin was fantastic. He was very nice and kept us entertained through the entire 2 hour ride. He never treated us like ignorant riders. He gave us the utmost respect and always pointed out interesting things to look at or herbal medicine plants that were everywhere on our ride. Ever horse in our group were gentle giants with huge personalities. Mine was named panda, an Arabian mix, and boy did he have character. At the beginning he went slow, but sped up when I gave some small kicks. When we started to head back to the stables, he was oh too excited to get he’s treats and started to go at a decent fast trot to get back. I had to keep stopping and waiting for the other to catch up.
I recommend this place to everyone, from first timers to experienced people. You weren’t restricted to just a small trail but you could take the horse anywhere through the plains, you could go out to far, but the riding wasn’t restricted.
Charles Eade — Google review
Had the best time riding horses today. It has been the best part of our trip. Our guide Pedro was awesome. I highly recommend this place. When we travel we always ride and this was the best experience we’ve ever had.
Katti Senior — Google review
This was the highlight activity for our mom-sisters trip and we had a wonderful experience horseback riding for 2 hours. Nick was our exceptional wrangler/guide and helped us all feel confident (as novice riders) in directing our horses—riding through the gorgeous autumn aspens and even trotting! We were so impressed with how well the horses are cared for and want to bring our kids and husbands here some day.
Angela Williams — Google review
We did a 2 hour horseback ride at 9am. Pedro was our wrangler and we really enjoyed his stories during the ride. He was patient and very helpful. We've done horseback riding at other places and this is so much better. There is room to spread out and the views are amazing. All types of terrain from wide open meadows to trails through aspens and pines. The horses were great and we felt very safe during the ride. I'm going back in October with a group of girlfriends as I know they will love it.
Michele Johnson — Google review
Don’t hesitate to book a trail ride with this ranch! I cannot say enough positive things about our experience. We’ve done trail rides before but this is a completely different experience of true riding in over 3500 acres of the most beautiful country you’ll see. The guides were amazing. They were kind, knowledgeable and reassuring for even our most inexperienced riders of our group. Shout out to Pedro and Dustin who were our guides. If you are anywhere near Breckenridge or Denver check them out!
Tanya Balakrishnan — Google review
Each time we vaca in a new place I look for a place to ride. I don't want a nose to tail ride. This was like being out on your own horse. We had three adults and four children under 12, most first time riders. The wranglers were so nice. The horses well mannered and well cared for. The scenery was awesome. I'll be back to ride when we get back this way.
Julie Beckner — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience! I brought my 8 year old daughter, who has no experience horseback riding. Our guide, Dustin was beyond amazing and patient! By the end, Dustin had her riding like a pro. Beautiful location and friendly staff.
Jessica Friend — Google review
My husband and I are in Breckenridge, CO for our wedding anniversary , and wanted to go horseback riding. American Safari Ranch is HANDS DOWN the best place around the area for a beautiful, scenic, amazing horse back riding experience! They put me on a very calm, broke horse named Gypsy (being I had little riding experience). Dustin was our guide and was wonderful. He was very nice, genuine, knowledgeable about the area, the land, and the wildlife around. You can tell certainly loves what he does for a living. Thank you Dustin for making our anniversary trip such an amazing experience we will forever cherish! We cannot wait to bring more of our family and friends with us next time!
Gary was very kind getting us checked in and set up, along with Pedro , getting us on our horses and explaining everything very thoroughly. Dustin and Pedro were also very patient with us! And thank you Dustin for capturing some pictures of my husband and I on our ride!
Brianna Buchholz — Google review
I called about a month ago to see if I would be able to join a group, as I would be traveling alone. Gary answered and told me to call a day or two in advance and he'd put me in a group. So, that's what he did! He was easy to talk to on the phone and answered any questions I had. When it came time to ride, Pedro was very informative, knowledgeable, and extremely entertaining. As we went through the valley and the forest, he told us of the ranches history, and then showed us the signs of the wildlife along the journey. I have not been horseback riding since I was a teen at summer camp, and Pedro was excellent in his instructions. I cannot recommend this place enough!
Jace Bardwell — Google review
This was one of our favorite days while visiting Colorado in early October. American Safari Ranch was worth every penny and the easy 45 minute drive from Breck. Gary was very accommodating when we called last minute to add on horse back riding with our ATV rides. Pedro was the absolute best and this is not a typical trail ride. You will learn quickly how to drive ATVs with Pedro and Dustin! Definitely make a stop at Otto's for lunch.
Kerry Sanderson — Google review
As two adults who have little experience with horses we had a great time riding! Dustin & Pedro we’re both awesome!!! They took their time to teach us and that made us feel confident riding. We even were sent pictures at the end. Overall it was a really enjoyable experience!!!
Brianne Falcone — Google review
We did a two hour horseback ride with Pedro. He was very knowledgeable with a good sense of humor. They group you with only your family and it was just my daughter and I. The views were spectacular and Pedro’s knowledge of Colorado history and animals in the area was amazing. It’s not your typical trail ride as there is more freedom and less just follow the leader. The horses are very well trained and they match you well to your horse based on experience. Horses are well taken care of and put out to pasture after the day. We will definitely be back.