If you are an avid rider and experienced horseperson, or if this will be your first riding experience, we’ve got just the right horse, activities, instructors and backcountry trails for you!  Smith Fork Ranch is fortunate to have access to 1.7 million acres of the Gunnison National Forest and West Elk Wilderness areas.  We travel these reclusive mountains of the Rockies by means of game, trapper, and old Indian trails that traverse the ridges, peaks and valleys through Aspen groves, mountain streams and breathtaking vistas.

Through considering your background and meeting you in person, our experienced wranglers will match one of our sturdy mountain horses with your ability, size and personality.  With your horse, you can ride back in time and experience our ranch, and the untouched backcountry by way of two to three hour rides, half-day, lunch and breakfast rides, as well as all day excursions in to the Wilderness.

Here at SFR we emphasize natural horsemanship and the importance of developing mutual trust and respect between horse and rider.  There is no better way to develop these bonds than to practice them in our 250 foot arena!  By team penning cattle, barrel racing, playing a rousing game of “steer soccer” or by receiving private western instruction from our wranglers, we are sure to bring out the horseman in everyone!

“An absolutely magnificent week!  Best trail ride, best hike, best horsemanship, BEST STAFF(!!), best cuisine…the list goes on.  You have truly assembled the complete package here for the quintessential Western/Colorado experience.  We thank you for a truly wonderful time!” –The Sheehy Family, Minnesota

Our herd consists of 40 plus horses, pack mules, and ponies.  Most of our horses are American Quarter Horses, Appaloosas, and a few in between crosses.  Year after year our horses make us proud by safely scaling the mountain trails and wading through water crossings with our guests.  We take a lot of pride in our horses and you will bond with your mount creating a special relationship that will make your stay unforgettable.