Resting atop the aspen-covered hills 7 miles north of Granby, C Lazy U Ranch is a welcome escape for adventure-seekers and leisure-lovers alike. Despite its seclusion, this award-winning dude ranch has you covered with its all-inclusive services and luxury accommodations. Kick back, relax and enjoy the views at one of Colorado’s most prized mountain retreats.
Clustered around the main lodge, each rustic cabin at C Lazy U boasts a unique Colorado vibe. Midnight Trail Lodge is a full-fledged vacation rental complete with a gourmet kitchen, master bedroom and three-car garage — perfect for a long-overdue family reunion. Sprawl out in the steamy hot tub or gather around the fire pit to reminisce. The Honeymoon Cabin (aka The Aspen), on the other hand, provides a more intimate atmosphere. This cozy one-bed, standalone cabin is tucked into an aspen grove near the main lodge.
While accommodations are delightful, it’s the staggering number of activities that draws guests back year after year. How does ziplining 375 feet over Willow Creek sound? How about zeroing in your sights at the archery or skeet-shooting range? Or for the rugged frontiersperson of the group, what about a guided fishing, horseback-riding or hunting excursion? When your tummy starts grumbling, see what culinary masterpiece the chef has waiting on the table. Lobster pappardelle, pistachio-crusted Colorado lamb and coconut cake are all fair game for your multi-course meal.
At C Lazy U, you’re not just a visitor — you’re part of a family. The friendly staff won’t miss a beat when it comes to tipping their 10-gallon hats and greeting you with Western hospitality. Expect to be addressed by name, not only by ranch hands, but by fellow guests as well. (You might even make some lifelong friends).
If dozens of majestic steeds galloping along dusty roads doesn’t scream “Colorado,” then we don’t know what does! During your stay, an expert wrangler will select a horse for you that jives with your personality and riding style. Bond with your new four-legged companion and live out your Wild West fantasy with unrestricted access to 8,500 acres of pristine mountain landscape.
C Lazy U isn’t just an all-gas-no-breaks resort. You won’t even feel an ounce of remorse while posting up at the Lazy You Spa for a day. Soak in a copper tub while sipping a sommelier-selected wine or indulge in a couples' massage overlooking the trickling waters of Willow Creek.
It’s no secret that C Lazy U’s food is out of this world. If you’re looking for a special dining experience, you can arrange for a private chef to prepare the ranch’s regional delicacies right inside your private lodge. (Just be sure to reserve your spot before arrival.)
“My 9-year-old daughter and I traveled to C Lazy U for a four-day trip last July and loved it so much that we stayed for another week. The staff are friendly and helpful, the rooms are comfortable and convenient and the food is amazing. The main selling point for us was the horse riding. We are not experienced riders, but the staff found horses that were suitable and fun for us so that we could enjoy the gorgeous trails. We also enjoyed the evening activities — they are fun for the whole family and have the feeling of a summer camp with songs and skits for the kids.” — Julia M., Tripadvisor
It’s unlikely you’ll leave the ranch with energy to spare. But if you do, there are many nearby adventures to be had. Make your way down to Granby and take Highway 34 north to Grand Lake. Pause for a moment to appreciate the serene elegance of Colorado’s largest natural lake, then head over to the boardwalk to explore wacky stores like Quacker Gift Shop and the kid-approved Ceaira’s Sweet Shop. Grand Lake is the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the most visited national park in the state.
Photos courtesy of C Lazy U Ranch
