Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
While the centerpiece of dude-ranch vacations is horseback riding, many ranches feature swimming pools and have
expanded their activity lists to include fly-fishing, hiking, mountain biking, tennis, golf, skeet-shooting and cross-coun-
try skiing. Accommodations range from rustic log cabins to cushy suites with whirlpools and cable TV. Meals range
from family-style spaghetti dinners to four-course gourmet feasts.
Colorado Dude & Guest Ranch Association
(
866-942-3472;
www.coloradoranch.com
)
Dude Ranchers' Association
(
307-587-2339, 866-399-2339;
www.duderanch.org
)
Hostels
Staying in a private double at a hostel can be a great way to save money and still have privacy (although you'll usually
have to share a bathroom). Dorm beds allow those in search of the ultimate bargain to sleep cheap under a roof. Dorms
cost between $18 and $28, depending on the city and time of year. A private room in a Colorado hostel costs between
$38 and $60.
US citizens and residents can join
Hostelling International-USA
(HI-USA; 301-495-1240;
www.hiusa.org
; an-
nual membership adult/child $28/free) by calling and requesting a membership form or by downloading a form from the
website. HI-USA doesn't have any hostels in Colorado. However, the HI card may be used for discounts at some local
merchants and for local services, including some intercity bus companies.
Hotels
Except for chains, Colorado's hotels are mostly found in cities, and they're generally large and luxurious, except for a
few boutique hotels, which tend to be small, understated and lavish. Prices start at around $79 and shoot straight up; ask
about discounts and special packages when making reservations. Always check online first when booking a hotel.
Long-Term Rentals
Houses or condominiums can be rented for anywhere from two days to two months. This type of lodging is most often
found in resort areas and almost always includes kitchens and living rooms.
Several people can lodge for the same price, so long-term rentals can be more economical than motels or hotels on a
per-person basis, especially if you can cook your own food. The chambers of commerce in resort towns have informa-
tion on condominium listings and can give advice on renting.
Also consider some of the corporate housing agencies such as
Avenue West
(
303-825-7625, 877-944-8283;
www.avewest.com
;
1440 Market St, Denver) and
Oakwood
(
877-902-0832;
www.oakwood.com
;
6:30am-9pm
Mon-Fri, 7am-6:30pm Sat & Sun) .
Motels
Budget chain motels are prevalent throughout Colorado; in smaller towns they're often the only option. Many motels
have at-the-door parking, with exterior room doors. These are convenient, though some folks, especially single women,
may prefer the more expensive places with more secure interior corridors.
Advertised prices are referred to as 'rack rates' and are not written in stone. Asking about specials can usually save
quite a bit of money. Children are often allowed to stay free with their parents.
