With an elevation of 7,200 feet nestled in the heart of the Rockies, the Smith Fork Ranch is a sanctuary for its guests. The ranch is located just 7.5 miles east of Crawford, which lies as the eastern entrance to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.
Printable maps and directions are available to download at the Smith Fork Ranch website for ease of getting to the establishment.
Summer luxury dude ranch in Crawford
Although secluded, the ranch is far from having insufficient attractions. In fact, the ranch is surrounded by just that. Just 30 miles to the northwest is the world’s largest, flat-topped mountain, the Grand Mesa. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison, a mesmorizing national park, is only 20 miles from the ranch. Crawford, the “last true cow town” is the nearest neighboring town… and there are more.
They welcome guests from late May through October. Only full stays of 6 nights are available during the peak summer season from second week in June to the start of September. During non-peak seasons, stays of 3 nights are available.
Recreation at the guest ranch
There are so many activities that can be done at the ranch that guests might not even have the need or time to go elsewhere. The Smith Fork Ranch is a true fly fishing paradise with three miles of the Gunnison river and even a fishing spot that’s home to a rare A-strain Colorado cutthroat trout. The ranch provides the guest with quality fishing equipment and welcomes everyone regardless of skill level.
Guests will also be paired with a horse that is ideal for them and be able to saddle up to explore the vast lands, including the 1.7 million acres of the West Elk Wilderness areas and the Gunnison National Forest. Enjoy mountain biking through amazing trails, such as the Virginia Creek trail and the Bear Back trail. Other fun activities include archery, hiking and trap shooting. The Smith Fork also offers a great program for the kids.
Lodging at the guest ranch
Guests staying at the ranch can choose between a house and cabins. All are individually decorated and are even historic with antiques and artworks from western and native American artists. Although the cabins take you back in time with their rustic styles, modern amenities are still provided such as wi-fi, hairdryers, hot tubs, and daily housekeeping.
The farm-to-table cuisine at the ranch is exquisite. Their chef creates mouth-watering dishes with fresh ingredients. They also pair award-winning wines to complement the sumptuous food. Lastly, if the on-ranch activities are not enough for the guests, they can go on unique off-ranch excursions and visit spectacular sites, such as the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, wineries, vineyards, organic farms, orchards and the mountain towns that surround the ranch.
You always have something to look forward to at the Smith Fork Ranch.
Details
Address: 45362 Needle Rock Rd, Crawford
Phone: 970-921-3454
Season: late May through October
Website: smithforkranch.com
