This All-inclusive Ranch in the Rocky Mountains Is in a National Forest — and It Has Luxurious Historic Log Cabins

You don’t have to have millions of dollars to have your own Colorado ranch — you just have to book a stay at the Smith Fork Ranch where things are done differently. Rather than maxing out the property with guests with varying needs and expectations, they welcome just one group at a time. “It’s your ranch, your way,” their website states.

This means you can spend your time and use the property as you please. You can hike, bike, and ski across the historic dude ranch, which is set along the river and surrounded by millions of acres of national forest land. Or, you can spend your day reading by the fire in your historic log cabin and visiting the spa — the choice is yours.

No matter how you choose to spend your time on Smith Fork Ranch, you’ll be supported by an on-the-ground team that will tack up your horse before a ride or point you in the direction of the best fly fishing. 

And as you go about your day on your (borrowed) ranch, you won’t have to worry about packing along your wallet — everything from your morning meal to your nightcap is included in the nightly rate.

The accommodations at the Smith Fork Ranch are a series of historic log homes and cabins that date back to 1928 but were updated in 2024. In total, the ranch can accommodate up to 38 guests across six residences with a total of 18 bedrooms. The largest is Marley’s Lodge with 6 bedrooms, 5 baths, a gym, a chef’s kitchen, and plenty of privacy. For travelers who want to fall asleep to the sound of the river, the 3-bedroom, 3-bath River House is a perfect choice. It’s set on the bank of the Smith Fork River among the trees.

Everyone gathers at The Bell for a family-style breakfast before embarking on their chosen adventure — from archery and fly-fishing to horseback riding and cross-country skiing. At the end of a long day exploring the Rocky Mountains, everyone meets back at the Elk Lodge to share the day’s adventures over a drink (and potentially some live music or a game of pool).

Smith Fork Ranch is a private inholding on National Forest land, meaning it is surrounded by open, untouched wilderness. It has a private stretch of river, ponds, forests, and pastures and direct access to hiking and skiing trails. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is just 30 minutes from the ranch by car.

Smith Fork Ranch is located just outside the small mountain town of Crawford, Colorado. It is five hours by car from Denver and one hour from the closest airport, Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), in the neighboring community of Montrose, Colorado.

The ranch is a popular choice for family reunions, large gatherings of friends, weddings, and corporate groups. It can also be booked for smaller groups that are looking for complete privacy and customization. The ranch is only available for full buyouts with a four-night minimum stay.