What do you get when you mix rugged mountains, quiet seclusion, eclectic lodging, family-owned charm, and tranquil hot spring pools? A stunning getaway at Avalanche Ranch.
Avalanche Ranch is located near Redstone, Colorado, and is summed up perfectly as a picturesque vision of what the Rocky Mountains are, can be, and should be. The quiet property is tucked away from any hustle and bustle, overlooking the Crystal River and surrounded by breathtaking views of Mt. Sopris.
Dramatic views aside, Avalanche Ranch has an assortment of offerings that pull at the strings of anyone who loves nature, relaxation, glamping, and hot springs.
Our Stay at Avalanche Ranch
Chad and I jumped at the opportunity to further explore our area, and experience a new-to-us soaking experience. From what I’d heard, Avalanche Ranch was an intimate place to enjoy the heart of Colorado; that was exactly right.
Avalanche Ranch has an assortment of lodging options, which all come with 24-hour soaking access to the pools. There are 13 log cabins available for rent (usually with a two-night minimum), several covered wagons, plus a one-bedroom apartment and three-bedroom ranch house. The entire property is 36 acres and can accommodate about 60 people.
For our one-night stay, Chad and I stayed in the Ranch’s Gypsy Wagon. After checking in and being welcomed by a lovely and welcoming staff, we were so pleased to see our small trailer awaiting our arrival. We loved our tiny house-esque wagon, which was cheerful and colorful, and located right smack next to the hot springs.
It was cozy and despite being the dead of winter, just warm enough for us to be comfortable all night long. Besides being delightfully designed (so many compartments and storage areas!), the views from our loft bed were stunning. Plus, the welcome cookies left for us didn’t hurt, either.
Logistic-wise, the nearest restaurant is miles away, so Chad and I made sure to pack snacks for later. Many lodging options have small kitchens available, which is a nice touch for guests. We wished we brought some wine as well, but that didn’t deter our fun. We also knew going into the weekend that our Gypsy Wagon wouldn’t have a bathroom, so we prepared ourselves for using the shared bathroom at the pools, where a shower was available as well.
Simmer and Soak
Our very favorite part of staying at Avalanche Ranch were its flawless hot springs. There were three tiered pools and one private tub in a small cabin. There were varying temperatures (92 – 104 degrees), each with different sizes and natural features worth exploring.
We enjoyed the top-level overlook, as we admired the snow-peaked Mt. Sopris. We dug our toes into the therapeutic rocks at the bottom of the pools, gently grazing our feet. And we adored the waterfall and rock grotto feature of the largest pool, especially when we had it to ourselves.
It’s no secret that we have a thing for hot springs. There’s so much to enjoy, from mineral content to outdoor access all-year long. At Avalanche Ranch, all of those features come to life in grand form, as an immersive escape.
It’s a little more rustic. Maybe it’s less flashy. But what the area lacks in modern amenities, it makes up for in character. And enrichment. And beauty. And honestly, can you beat a midnight soak, especially when stars dazzle through the steam?
Avalanche Ranch is Made For Unplugging
Here’s something to know about Avalanche Ranch: when you come here, you unplug from technology and connect with your surroundings. That’s just how it works, since there is no cell phone service or wifi. You can rent a television for your cabin, but you’ll probably prefer to forego that option.
If you are there for a longer stay, Avalanche Ranch has plenty to do. Summer visitors can wander on nearby hiking and biking trails, with Crystal River walks and fishing spots. In winter, the Ranch is great for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating, and even has hills for sledding and tubing.
Plus, year-round Avalanche Ranch has yoga classes and has massages available on-site. When you take a class or get a treatment, you also have access to the pools after.
Chad and I had an excellent experience just spending time with each other. I only had my phone out to snap a few pictures, and then I returned to reality with gusto. We chatted while we soaked, both with ourselves and other guests staying at the Ranch for the weekend. Later, we ate our snacks and giggled while playing cards in our wagon. It was pretty much the perfect date, and mini vacation.
FYI: Day Use
Since we stayed on the property, we had complimentary access to the pools from check in to check out. Avalanche Ranch also welcomes day visitors, though reservations are required (call (970) 963-2846 to book).
They offer two different time slots, for four hours each. You can sign up to soak from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Avalanche Ranch is closed on Wednesdays for pool cleaning.
We’ll Be Back
It became clear, very quickly, that Chad and I will return to Avalanche Ranch. We loved every minute of our stay, and found ourselves falling deeper in love with our corner of Colorado, and each other, as we floated under the stars.
We threw out phrases like “anniversary getaway,” and sorted out our friends and family who we would love to share our new special place with. Most of all, we lived peacefully in the moment, and felt radiant happiness as we looked out upon Colorado’s best.
We’ll be back, Avalanche Ranch. And we can’t wait.
Pricing and Rates
Mon-Thurs: $16/Adult $12/Child (3-14 yrs)
Fri-Sun: $20/Adult $15/Child (3-14 yrs)
$2 towel rental
$2 suit rental
Lodging Rates: starting at $95.
Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., with more info available here.
Bring: Slip-on shoes, a robe (it just makes things easier and warmer, especially if you’re staying overnight), snacks, foods, and drinks, if you’d like.
Remember: This place is quiet and peaceful; soaking here reflects that. Try not to be loud or disrespectful. It’s not a place for partying, and that’s one of their top rules.
Wow that looks absolutely amazing! The view must have been even better in real life. And what a great idea to have guests staying in those cute gypsy wagons because honestly, what more do you need? Glad to see you enjoyed yourselves!
It was amaaaazing! A total glamping experience, that was so cute and cozy and fun. Even though I’m not a morning person, those views got me out of bed at sunrise with (almost) no problem. 🙂 Thank you so much for reading!
Such a lovely trip! I would love to spend a weekend there! 🤗
So amazing. Maybe some day you’ll be able to visit! 🙂 Thank you for reading!
Wow. This looks fantastic.
Thank you! It really is. I can’t recommend it enough.
Wow this sounds like an amazing time. I live for places where I can just unplug, be present and enjoy my surroundings. And that wagon! Omg too cute!!!
It’s just the cutest! And agreed; it’s getting harder to find places where you can truly and completely unplug. I’m thankful whenever I get the chance. Thank you for reading!
What a wonderful trip you had there. Although I don’t know the place, you seem to have been happy being there. The day visitor rates are also affordable.
It was great! A truly Colorado experience, for sure. Thank you so much for reading!
Oh wow! This looks amazing. I keep seeing more and more posts about things to do in Colorado. I definitely think that a trip there is a must for me soon. I often find myself struggling to find great winder destinations since I am such a lover of the tropical weather. This looks like an amazing experience that I would love!
💗 Alexx | Aesthetics by Alexx
https://aestheticsbyalexx.com
It’s amazing! I’m like you, and often gravitate toward warmer destinations if I can! But if you ever get the chance to mix it up and find a way to get to Colorado, I’d highly recommend this place. Thanks for reading and commenting! 🙂
This genuinely looks like one of the most beautiful places to visit and stay. Those hot springs looks GORGEOUS. Not sure how I’d cope getting out of them and back into the cold but for those views I’d grin and bear it! Wish I lived somewhere nearby Colarado so I could visit, but sadly that’s a veeeeery long plane journey ☹️ The photos like beautiful thank you for sharing! 💕
Getting out was the hardest part, for sure! I think the best thing to do is just never leave, haha. And maybe some day you’ll make it, but I’m sure there’s plenty of beauty to explore that’s a little closer. Thanks for reading! 🙂
Oh wow this places looks amazing! I’ve always wanted to visit some hot springs, especially with views like those. Gorgeous photos too, and the gypsy wagon looks adorable! Just a bit too far for me from the UK 😉
I understand that! I hope that you’re able to find some hot springs that don’t cost an arm and a leg and several hours spent on a plane. 🙂 but if you are ever in the states, there are hundreds all over the western half of the country. thanks so much for reading! 🙂
Okay, you sold me. 😉 This place is so beautiful! And the gypsy wagon is probably the cutest ‘housing’ I think I’ve ever seen. I don’t know how you guys deal with the cold while using the hot springs but maybe I’m just too Cali. Lol! You guys are so adorable and I’m happy to hear it was a lovely time. It sounds very wholesome to just unplug and enjoy your special someone’s company.
Thanks so much for sharing!
x
Isn’t it just so cute and cheery?! So much charm. And I think that’s usually what people think—that when it’s cold outside, how can anyone stand to be outside? Honestly, it’s just the perfect combo, even if it doesn’t seem to make sense. If you ever come to Colorado, try a winter trip! 🙂 Thank you so much for reading and giving your feedback. x
Oh wow, this looks like such a heavenly getaway! I’ll have to show this to my husband and add it to our bucklist!
Britt | http://alternativelyspeaking.ca
I hope you’re eventually able to make it some day! It’s perfect for couples—so quiet and romantic. Thank you so much for reading. 🙂
This looks amazing!!!!! What a great way to get away!
Totally wish I was back there now! Thank you so much for reading and checking my post out. 🙂
Wow! What a stunning place! You are so lucky to have gone somewhere so beautiful! I love the mountains so this looks like heaven 😊
I’m so lucky to live where I do! This place is only a 40 minute drive from my front door, and I had no idea. The mountains are beautiful, and I recommend an escape to them as often as possible. Thank you for reading! 🙂
Oh wow that scenery alone is reason enough to go. It looks so beautiful and peaceful between the mountains. Definitely letting hubby see this!
It was absolutely gorgeous! I’m just counting the days and saving the pennies until we can go again. Very much a needed escape. Thank you for reading and sharing! 🙂
Stunning. I cant believe this is real life! Im obsessed with mountains. And the idea of hot springs! I appreciate your tips like snacks and rental prices$
It’s so humble and rustic and hard to believe how scenic this spot is, kind of tucked away in the middle of nowhere. Truly a hidden gem! Thank you very much for reading, and for your feedback. 🙂
Amazing place!!! Great post!
So amazing! Thank you so much for reading. 🙂
Wow, this looks so much fun! I think we have some glamping places in Scotland but none with these hot springs. Such a cute post
Shona Marie xo | http://www.bellechic.blog
Glamping in Scotland sounds so fun! I would love that, hot springs or not. Thank you so much for reading! 🙂
I love hot springs and these ones look amazing especially the view with the mountains. Also, the pictures are so nice and authentic. Maybe I will have the occasion to visit Colorado😀.
Hot springs are amazing! Sometimes they are large facilities like pools, other times they are more rustic like this, and sometimes they are just all-natural on the side of the road, not looking like anything special. So interesting and unique! Thank you so much for reading, I hope someday you can visit! 🙂
I love this idea! It looks so relaxing.
It’s a great getaway! Thanks for reading.
This place looks beautiful and I love the Gypsy Wagon! The views are spectacular. I bet it was cold heading to the bathroom and just before getting into the Springs! It looks like you had an excellent time though, I’d love to try something like this and unplug. It must’ve be amazing not having to check your phone all of the time.
Caitlin
Oh man, getting in and out were the worst, just because it was so cold! It made it so, so hard to leave the warm water. But overall it was wonderful and fun! Especially not being connected to a screen. Thanks for reading! 🙂