I just spent five days with family and friends at the Echo Canyon Guest Ranch near La Veta, Colorado. The experience was oustanding. The staff was very conscientious and went out of their way to deal with individual requests. The wranglers were especially knowledgeable and personable about working with beginning riders through experienced riders. There was no shortage of good food and the cantina in the basement of the lodge was an added bonus.

What was most amazing was how different each of the trail experiences turned out to be. And, no matter the difficulty of the trail, you always knew that the wranglers were keeping an eye out for you and were ready and willing to help you in any way needed. The facilities were clean and you can truly escape from it all with no cell phone service (they recommend buying a phone card to use the public phone) and some limited internet acess on two dial-up connections. So, you truly can tell the boss you are "away" for at least a few days.

The 3-mile trail to the lodge across the gorgeous multi-acre property gets you all set for a relaxing week at Echo Canyon Ranch. Futhermore, the town of La Veta is close by for anything you might need "in town" (I'm at a wireless cafe there now writing this review). According to other quests who have also been to other dude ranches, Echo Canyon offers the most riding possibilities as well as the option at any time to "opt out" of any activities. It truly is a great vacation spot. .

Feel free to call or contact their staff for any questions or further information.