Head for higher ground and enjoy breathtaking scenery and cooler air at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Tabernash, Colo. Set on 6,000 acres of pristine mountain landscape, this acclaimed mountain ranch resort is named for a distinctive rocky outcrop on a nearby peak. According to local Ute and Arapaho tradition, the formation is called Devil’s Thumb after a long-ago battle that left the devil’s thumb visible—a reminder of the dangers of war.
The property blends historic ranch character with modern amenities. The original main lodge, which features 53 rooms, and 15 cabins perched along a rocky ridge have been complemented by newer additions such as the 35-room High Lonesome Lodge, a cozy wine grotto, the Ranch Creek Spa, and the Broad Axe Barn, an adaptable venue for meetings, receptions, and the many weddings hosted on the ranch. Dining options are varied and approachable, ranging from the Ranch House Restaurant & Saloon to casual outlets like Caffé Giocondo, Grotto Suraboza, Volario’s, Heck’s Tavern, and the Hallowed Grounds Coffee Shop.
Activities change with the seasons, offering guests outdoor adventure and relaxation year-round. In summer and early fall, visitors can choose from mountain biking on scenic trails, fly fishing in nearby streams, guided hikes, zip lining, horseback riding, and stand-up paddleboarding lessons. When winter arrives, the ranch becomes a snowy playground with cross-country skiing across groomed tracks, snowshoeing, ice skating, fat-tire biking, snow tubing, and horseback rides through winter landscapes. Families will appreciate seasonal children’s programs like Cowpoke Camp, which keeps younger guests entertained with age-appropriate activities.
Ranch Creek Spa focuses on restorative treatments inspired by the natural surroundings and regional ingredients. Signature services include the Hot River Stone Massage, which uses smooth stones gathered from the Colorado River; the Altitude Adjustment Massage featuring acupressure and warm towels to ease muscle tension at elevation; a Deep Forest Exfoliation made with evergreen-infused oil to refresh skin; and the Head-to-Toe Honey Hydration Wrap using local Colorado honey blended with lavender and sage. Guests can extend their spa experience with a soak in the geothermal-heated outdoor saltwater pool, ideal for relaxing before or after treatments.
Whether you come for high-country adventure or quiet relaxation, Devil’s Thumb Ranch delivers an authentic mountain escape with comfortable lodging, diverse dining, and a full roster of seasonal activities and spa services. Its mix of rustic charm and thoughtful amenities makes it a memorable destination for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking Colorado scenery and hospitality.
