The Spread:
Tucked into Willow Creek Valley in Colorado's blue-sky high country, about two hours from Denver and not far from the west entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, C Lazy U, which celebrates its 60th year in 2006, spreads across 8,000 acres and offers the best of two worlds—a comfortably casual guest ranch and luxury resort. After a day on the range, the good food and upscale-rustic accommodations—38 rooms and suites with varying décor—are just the thing for hard-riding, hard-playing cowpokes.

Why Families Love It:
The children's program for ages three to 17 splits into groups for youngsters three to five, six to 12, and for teens. While the youngest guests try pony rides, arts and crafts, fishing, and swimming, ages six and up can ride on the ranch's twice-daily rides (about two hours each), and teens can go rafting and have their own overnight campout. All rides are grouped by ability, and we're not talking walk-only rides like some ranches. At C Lazy U you can lope across the range if your skills allow. And the excellent wranglers will help you improve day by day. Non-riders and the saddle-sore can enjoy boating, fishing, and tennis as well as golf at several nearby courses. In winter, the ranch has cross-country skiing and sleigh rides, and the world-class ski slopes of Winter Park are just a short drive away. One note: All children ages 17 and under eat lunch and dinner with their counselors and peers, something many older teens may dislike since this groups them with the "kiddies."

Special Events & Activities:
Everyone loves the Friday morning "Woodsie Breakfast" cookout followed by a family ride, and come Saturday, guests of all ages showcase their equestrian skills in the old-fashioned "Showdeo."