Off-Ranch Vacation Activities for Kids, Teens

Conveniently located less than 7 miles away from the picturesque town of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, one of America’s greatest natural treasures, the ranch’s convenient and serene location provides access to an array of Colorado’s finest recreational activities.

In addition to the adventures and activities available on property, our staff can help you book and accompany you on the various private, local excursions listed below.

Please note, although kayaking and hiking are available free of charge, the following are separate activities not covered in the ranch’s all-inclusive pricing:

– Fly Fishing
– Golf Courses
– River Rafting
– Jeep Tours

River Rafting

Also available at an additional cost, rafting on the scenic Cache La Poudre River is an experience unlike anything else you will find in the country. A Class 1-5 river located near Ft. Collins, Colorado, the Poudre River provides an action-packed day of fun in the sun and views of some of the state’s most pristine and breathtaking wilderness. One of the area’s most skilled and expert guides will steer you through the rushing river and ensure an afternoon of enjoyment.

Guests are able to sign up for this off-property excursion by calling one of the Poudre River outfitters.

Shopping in Estes Park

7 miles down the road from the ranch is the beautiful, quaint mountain town of Estes Park that comes alive in the summer. Main Street is full of antiques, souvenirs, Starbucks/local coffee shops, ice cream shops, and candy/chocolate stores everywhere. It is definitely worth an afternoon journey!

Don’t forget to visit the ranch gift shop for your custom ranch gear, and ice cream and coffee from the malt shop.

Fly Fishing

Although the cost of hiring a guide is an additional expense not included in the pricing for your ranch vacation, a fishing trip in the Rocky Mountains is well worth your time and money. Whether you’re an avid fly-fisher or a beginner, our staff can steer you to the “honey holes” in the surrounding area. Please visit with Don McIntyre pertaining to the St. Vrain River, Wild Basin area, or the Big Thompson River hot spots. You can book a private trip with some of our local fly fishing guide shops at your own expense and enjoy a wonderful half day or whole day of fly fishing in the mountains through Estes Park Anglers located nearby in Estes Park.

Golf Courses

Playing a round of golf in Estes Park is a spectacular experience and a great way to spend an afternoon in the Rocky Mountains. Each Tuesday, a group of Wind River Ranch guests will play 18 holes at the beautiful Estes Park Golf Course, surrounded by panoramic views mountains, rivers and the town itself. This 6,700 yard layout is challenging, unique and enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels.

The ranch has rental clubs available for those not traveling with their own, however, the guest course fee is not included in
your “per-week” pricing and will be an additional charge.

Hiking In Rocky Mountain National Park

Please ask our hiking expert Rob Luttrell about hiking one of the beautiful trails located near the property, such as Lily
Lake, Eugenia Mine or Aspen Brook, to get insight on which hike might be the best fit for you or your family.

On days you plan to hike, just let our kitchen staff know at breakfast and they will have a box lunch prepared for all hikers
at the time of departure.

Kayaking

This is included in the price per week. Just 10 minutes from the ranch, Lake Estes provides some of the best views of Rocky
Mountain National Park and what better way to take in the beauty of the mountains than by a lake kayak? We have two person and one person lake kayaks and a canoe. These are the kinds of kayaks that provide exterior seating on top of the kayak, similar to a canoe. Our staff members will provide transportation down to the marina, kayaks, life vests and a brief training session so you and your family can spend a leisurely Tuesday or Thursday afternoon exploring the town’s most scenic lake.

Jeep Tours

These excursions are also an additional expense and an adventure you can choose to do with your family by contacting one of the tour companies located in town.

Take a sunset tour through the Lower Valley National Park or cruise down Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved road in the country, for views that can’t be beat.

On and off-road tours are available and allow you to experience the grandeur of the Rockies in an open-top excursion vehicle at a pace and excitement level of your choosing.