> Lake Fork Ranch > Horseback Riding FAQ

Riding Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can we bring our own horses to the ranch?

A: Absolutely! In fact, Lake Fork Ranch and the surrounding Rio Grande National Forest and South San Juan Wilderness Area really lend themselves to horseman who are looking for a riding vacation with their own horse.

Q: If we bring our horses, do you have pens for them?

A: Yes, Lake Fork Ranch offers 16' x 16' outdoor pens for your horse as well as a 60' round pen for warm up and practice work. In addition, we have a 12' x 20' covered pen.

Q: Do I have to trailer my horse to rides?

A: No, there is lots of riding right out of the ranch. Just the same, some guests will trailer to some trail heads just to save some time, and be able to ride further out in a day.

Q: Are you a dude ranch or guest ranch?

A: No, we have no scheduled rides, meals, or events. The day, and what you want to do with it, are entirely up to you!

Q: Are guides available to show us the trails?

A: Absolutely. If you rent our horses, a guide will always go with you. If you are bringing your own horses, it is up to you whether you want a guide or not - it is included in price. If the sense of adventure and exploration hit you and you don't want a guide, we do offer a discount.

Q: What vaccinations are required for our horses?

A: The State of Colorado requires a Coggins test within the last 12 months as well as a health certificate from the last 30 days. We also suggest a 3 way shot (E&W Tetanus, Flu Rino, Distemper) as well as a West Nile vaccination before coming out to Lake Fork Ranch.

Q: How long are the rides around the ranch?

A: The rides vary from short rides of 1 mile to Rock Lake and back to all day adventures of 20 miles or more. The length of the ride is really up to the rider and how fit the rider and their horse are.

Q: How difficult are the rides?

A: There are trails of open meadow, lakes and streams with 1% to 2% grades, to challenging trails of narrow width and steep grade (such as the trail to Bear Lake, which rewards the rider with panoramic views and 30 inch plus trout).

Q: What kind of scenery will we see on the rides?

A: All kinds! You can ride in big, open meadows, old growth forest with trees of 150 feet or more, sweeping 360 degree views of the San Juans, the Sangre De Christos, and the San Luis Valley, hidden waterfalls, old mines, an ice cave, and of course, bear, elk, deer, lynx, eagles, cranes, ducks, bobcats, coyotes, and mountain sheep.

Q: When I ride in the National Forest, BLM Land, Open Space, or other public lands near my home, I spend most of my day managing my horse because of the traffic (cars/mountain bikes/dogs/hikers etc…) also on the trail. What are the trails like around Lake Fork?

A: Uncrowded. Deserted. Solitary. Those are all commonly used words to describe the trails around Lake Fork Ranch. The Conejos River Valley is the hidden secret of Colorado - so few people know about the valley that seeing another person on the trail just once qualifies for a busy day!

Q: Do you have camping sites?

A: No.

Q: Do you have hookups for LQ trailers?

A: No, all guests rent our cabins, although some do run extension cords to their trailers from the cabins.

Q: What other activities are available?

A: Hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing can all be done. We have mountain bikes for guests' use as well as canoes up at Big Lake. If you are looking for something off of the ranch, the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad offers train rides between Chama, NM and Antonito, CO. If you are a golfer, Cattails Golf Club is in Alamosa. In addition, the world famous town of Taos, NM and the Great Sand Dunes National Park are both within 2 hours of the ranch!

Q: What is the weather like at Lake Fork?

A: See the chart below for some average temperatures during the summer and early fall. Be prepared for an afternoon rain shower on any day, typically in the afternoon.

Q: What kind of clothing should I bring?

A: Besides the usual supply of jeans and shirts, summer visitors should bring a raincoat/duster, a sweater/sweatshirt, windbreakers, a medium-heavy coat in case the temps do drop with a storm, a hat of some type. In addition, don't forget the sunscreen and bug repellent!