YOUR HOME (AWAY FROM HOME) ON THE RANGE
Located just 40 miles north of Steamboat Springs on the Colorado-Wyoming border but a world away from “real life,” the expansive 200,000-acre Three Forks Ranch embodies the true West — rich in history, resources, and opportunity. With only 15 guest rooms, our Lodge and Spa is a luxury getaway, replete with the most decadent amenities and superior personalized service. Our decades-long commitment to sustainable land use and conservation is evident in the tens of thousands of pristine, private acres at your disposal to explore with abandon.
acres of pure, picturesque Rocky Mountain landscape.
square feet of luxurious lodge.
square-foot, full-service spa, with tempting treatments for the mind, body and soul.
staff members to cater to your every whim.
miles north of Steamboat Springs, situated on the Col-12 col-sm-6 col-md-3orado-Wyoming border.
decadent deluxe rooms.
sumptuous suites.
other places on earth like Three Forks Ranch.
After spending many years searching for the perfect Western property, David Pratt set his eyes on Three Forks Ranch. Looking for an active cattle ranch with mountains, river, and solitude — and an abundance of wildlife and natural beauty — his alluring dream took shape in this Sierra Madre Mountains paradise.
Not content to keep the place to himself, he then set out to share it with the world.
The urge was irresistible.
Whether whisking down our private powdery slopes in the winter or casting a line beside the cool waters of the Little Snake River under a summer sun, an adventure at Three Forks Ranch is always in season.
Saddle up, tie a fly, grab a bike, lace up your boots, or grab a pair of skis for an unforgettable outdoor adventure in an idyllic wilderness.
Settle into a beautifully appointed suite with sweeping, postcard-perfect views of our secluded slice of heaven.
Warm your soul by the fire with a glass of wine in hand, experience the ultimate in relaxation with a massage in our Roaring Fork Spa, and savor world-class cuisine inside our elegantly appointed dining room — or down on the water during one of our famous riverside lunches.
No matter how you choose to spend your time here, you will be greeted warmly and personally guided. At no other destination will you receive the bespoke, world-class service that Three Forks offers.
As Three Forks Ranch is vast, covering more than 200,000 acres of wilderness, so too is its history.
Prehistoric man and Native Americans were attracted to the land’s rich bounty, fur trappers and traders capitalized on ample game herds, and miners sought wealth from nearby mineral deposits. It’s only with the arrival of European settlers that we have a written record of the ranch’s contemporary ownership.
Since the 1800s, Three Forks Ranch has attracted and impressed anglers, outdoorsmen, vacationers, and explorers from far and wide. What was a coveted destination then remains so today thanks to our abundant natural resources paired with every modern-day luxury you can imagine. We are proud to continue Three Forks Ranch’s long, rich tradition of beauty, adventure, and remarkable accommodations — all enhanced by the exceptional personalized service that defines our brand.
Three Forks Ranch Is Built
Thomas Gardner built the original Three Forks Ranch at what is now the Headquarters gate. The wealthy, retired Chicago newspaperman came West ostensibly for his health, although he had a curious habit of disappearing into the mountains for weeks at a time when federal agents traveled the valley. Thomas brought with him his wife, Katherine; her mother, Adila; and Cora, Katherine’s daughter from a previous marriage. The couple’s palatial mansion was decorated at the height of 1890s style and filled with taxidermied animals hunted by Thomas in the Rockies. Guests were frequent here, as Katherine expertly hosted many lively parties. Even then, Three Forks was renowned for its excellent fishing and plentiful game. Wealthy tourists from back East hired locals to guide hunts, and families from surrounding states vacationed on the property in the summer. Thomas is buried on the ranch, and Katherine moved to California upon selling Three Forks Ranch to the OVO Cattle Company.
Pioneer Sheep Company
The site of The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch was settled by W.P. Blackmore, who managed the Pioneer Sheep Company. The second owner of the site, a man by the name of Hancock, was probably a miner. Not much is known about his tenure.
The Honnalds Cattle Ranch
Charles and Hattie Honnald bought the land that is now The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch. They worked hard to grow their business, running more than 250 Hereford cattle, sheep, horses, and milk cows. They also built a large barn for the stagecoach horses that passed through the area six days a week.
Cow Creek Sheep
The Honnalds sold their ranch to the Cow Creek Sheep Company. The company built an office, a small bunkhouse, a small barn, two cabins, and several other buildings along the riverbank – including what is now the restored River Rock lodge. Cow Creek razed the home of Thomas and Katherine Gardner, who built the original Three Forks Ranch in 1875.
Haytner Family Cattle
The ranch was purchased by the Haytner family, who raised Hereford cattle on the property until the late 1980s.
Barnes Family
The Barnes family purchased the ranch and constructed several buildings still in use today, including a bunkhouse and several vehicle bays, one of which housed a full-time veterinarian and vet clinic.
David Pratt Acquires Ranch
David Pratt purchased Three Forks Ranch, concluding a decades-long quest to find the perfect Western property.
Little Snake River Restoration
Work began on restoring the Little Snake River — the most extensive, privately financed river restoration project in the history of the United States. Sixteen miles of river were painstakingly rehabilitated to what Mother Nature intended more than 150 years ago, dramatically decreasing erosion and increasing the fishery’s health.
Luxury Lodge Constructed
Three Forks’ crown jewel, the 35,000-square-foot luxury Lodge was constructed, housing a 6,000-square-foot spa.
Winter Amenities
Private downhill skiing, snowboarding, and sledding on the ranch’s namesake mountain is introduced, wowing even Olympians with stunning runs and backcountry bliss.
The combination of all that we offer in our luxury retreat will redefine your expectations for a wellness trip and set you on a path to a healthier and happier you.
And for those guests whose journey may require care, we are honored to provide them with direct access to the Mayo Clinic!
The Lodge and Spa is only one jewel in Three Forks Ranch’s crown. We’re also a working cattle ranch complete with progressive management, pasture rotation, and excellent cattle handling facilities. Our experienced cowboy crew is stationed at cow camps throughout the ranch, and all are capable of doctoring cattle on the range.
Thanks to our robust practices, we have developed a very strong herd of Black Angus mother cows, and our steer calves are always at the top of the sale offering.
From the moment you arrive at the Lodge and Spa’s front doors, you’re welcomed warmly by our staff and paired with one of North America’s most talented, knowledgeable, and friendly guides.
At no other ranch will you receive the personalized, individualized service and guiding that Three Forks offers. These exceptional relationships are our gold standard.
The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch has a distinct warmth — a family feel that enhances the guest experience from start to finish. This is thanks to our staff.
Lodge Manager Emma Larson explains: “Our guests first come to Three Forks Ranch to experience the property. They come back because of our people.” All of us are ready to greet you warmly and personally upon your arrival.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to our commitment to you having the experience of a lifetime.
Except for the fact that your relationship is completely customizable to your unique needs, our expert guides are like the North Star for your Three Forks’ adventures; guiding, shining, lighting the way.
You name something you can do outside, we have someone who is an expert on not only doing it, but making it enjoyable.
Many members of our team have lived and thrived on the property for over 20 years. With expertise as far as the eye can see, you’ll know every insider tip and trick like the back of your hand by the end of your stay.
At the Lodge & Spa at Three Forks, it’s like we are a family.
There’s only one way to guarantee awe, consistency and attention to detail. The only thing we love more than The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch is making sure you love it too.
The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch is very proud of our 5.0 rating on trip advisor. To see our 50+ reviews, just click the link.
True West: Fancy digs aside, the appeal here is intimacy. Managers dine with guests nightly. The three-to-one staff-to-guest ratio allows for spontaneity I’ve seldom encountered; last winter, I arranged snowshoe and cross-country ski outings with 20 minutes’ notice.
The Finest Money Can Buy: Visitors ride horseback on trails winding through countryside that could pass for the backdrop to a John Wayne western. The views are seldom less than breathtaking.
Top 101 Hotel Suites of the Year: The world’s most decadent innovations in luxury hotels and resort suites from around the world. Beyond the criteria of luxurious details, these suites are based on opulence, design, plush accommodations and second-to-none service.
Fly Fishing and Five-Star Fare at Three Forks Ranch: A savvy guest’s first order of business is to pay a visit to the Roaring Fork Spa, specifically the relaxation room and its incredible mountain views. The 6,000 square-foot spa includes steam baths, hot tubs and an indoor/outdoor infinity pool. Four rooms are available for as many spa treatments as your heart desires.
While our aim —first and foremost— is to meet and exceed our guests’ standards and expectations, we sure don’t mind positive press that helps us share the Three Forks Ranch experience.
Three Forks Ranch will forever pay homage to the rich history and natural wonders that surround us.
We pledge to protect and preserve our resources while providing a superior personalized vacation experience for each and every guest.
The wellbeing of our guests and our surrounding natural environments have been considered in every operations decision since 1999.
From minimizing food waste to implementing the most extensive and expensive river restoration project in North America, we endeavor to honor the land and its resources such that they flourish and thrive — the way Mother Nature intended.
The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch exists because we wanted to share our Western paradise with the world. Our family’s calling to warmly welcome others — to revel with us in nature’s grandeur amid luxury amenities — is also reflected in our robust commitment to philanthropy.
We routinely open our doors (and riverbanks, bike paths, and ski runs) to organizations that are near and dear to us and our guests.
Every year, we donate more than $250,000 of Three Forks Ranch experiences to a long list of local and national causes that benefit the arts, medical research, animal and river conservation, wounded veterans, and many more. We are proud to support worthy efforts that enrich the larger world and give hope to people in need.
To inquire about philanthropic opportunities, email us at info@threeforksranch.com
Stunning natural beauty, expansive grounds, world-class accommodations, unparalleled service, your every desire fulfilled, just by opening your inbox.
Copyright © 2021 Three Forks Ranch
Three Forks Ranch. Luxury Resort Wyoming/Colorado USA
Since the 1800s, Three Forks Ranch has garnered praise from outdoorsmen, vacationers, and explorers from all over the world. While we focus intently on our guests — providing them the billion-star, personalized experiences that keep them coming back year after year — we’re also proud of the accolades that our approach has garnered over the years.
The Lodge & Spa at Three Forks Ranch is very proud of our 5.0 rating on trip advisor. To see our 50+ reviews, just click the link.
True West: Fancy digs aside, the appeal here is intimacy. Managers dine with guests nightly. The three-to-one staff-to-guest ratio allows for spontaneity I’ve seldom encountered; last winter, I arranged snowshoe and cross-country ski outings with 20 minutes’ notice.
The Finest Money Can Buy: Visitors ride horseback on trails winding through countryside that could pass for the backdrop to a John Wayne western. The views are seldom less than breathtaking.
Top 101 Hotel Suites of the Year: The world’s most decadent innovations in luxury hotels and resort suites from around the world. Beyond the criteria of luxurious details, these suites are based on opulence, design, plush accommodations and second-to-none service.
Fly Fishing and Five-Star Fare at Three Forks Ranch: A savvy guest’s first order of business is to pay a visit to the Roaring Fork Spa, specifically the relaxation room and its incredible mountain views. The 6,000 square-foot spa includes steam baths, hot tubs and an indoor/outdoor infinity pool. Four rooms are available for as many spa treatments as your heart desires.
Offering miles of unmatched trout streams, soaring mountain tops, and limitless acres of Aspen covered meadows; this magical playground offers more activities than a day can hold. The Roaring Fork Spa, nestled within The Lodge at Three Forks Ranch, is a focal point of complete rejuvenation for guests seeking a special kind of ranch vacation.
Over The Rainbows: My Three Forks guide taught me more about fly-fishing in one day than all the other guides I have fished with combined. With his help, I caught and released a dozen rainbow trout along various stretches of the Little Snake River, 16 miles of which run through this 200,000-acre working cattle ranch.
Cast a fly, hit the slopes, and take a steam high in the Sierras. Bon Appétit is an American food and entertaining magazine that is published monthly by Condé Nast.
Where the Three Forks skiing and snowboarding experience will really stand out is when guests climb inside one of the ranch’s snowcats and head out to the backcountry. The specially designed vehicles are built to travel through the deepest snows, and can provide access to places that no chair lift ever could. Skiers will be able to shred untouched powder in a pristine wilderness that will make them feel like they’re the first ones to ever visit the area, providing a magical ski experience that is unlike any other.
In 1862, Joseph Hahn and two companions struck gold in the vicinity of Hahns Peak just north of Steamboat Springs. Over a century later, David Pratt, owner of Three Forks Ranch, has struck gold in the form of the fly-fisherman’s nirvana by restoring 22 miles of three rivers that now teem with Donaldson and Kamloops Rainbows measuring over 30 inches.
Three Forks Ranch and the cat skiing they have will provide skiers that visit this valley some of the most amazing and unique opportunities available anywhere in this country or North America for that matter. They have endless terrain — more legit than Steamboat Powder Cats terrain and amenities by far. They also have the benefit of being a 230,000 acre private ranch and have a base lodge that would take most people’s breath away.
Twenty maintained trails on privately owned ski hills accessed only by snowcat — I’d call it the best private snowcat skiing west of the Rockies. No lift lines... no crowds... just you and the hill — and if you’re lucky like my family was with some cooperation from Mother Nature, perhaps more than a foot of freshly fallen snow.
Think of a snowcat as your personal ski butler—one that comes with a massive snowplow, all-terrain treads and/or bench seating for six. One is there to taxi you up 1,100 vertical feet of gladed mountain face. And another’s there to smooth out up to 20 untouched, private runs in the Sierra Madre, before you grace them with your descent. (You’ll carve these green-, blue- and black-diamond trails almost completely at your leisure, since the hotel caps capacity at a lean 30.)
Two hundred thousand acres. A working cattle ranch near the border of Wyoming and Colorado, owned by St. Louis Cardinals co-owner David Pratt. The Three Forks Ranch puts the ‘X’ in extreme luxury.
Unlimited Private Snowcat Skiing at Three Forks Ranch: With all due respect to Mr. Disney, the happiest place on Earth isn’t in Orlando or Anaheim. It’s deep in the Sierra Madre on the Colorado-Wyoming border where the North, South and Middle Fork Rivers meet to give this 200,000-acre working cattle ranch and four-season playground its name.
Your Private Mountain Now Has Snow: The 200,000-acre resort (just 40mi north of Steamboat on the CO/WY border) has crafted twenty beautiful beginner-to-expert runs which are 1) only accessible by Snowcat (they have four), and 2) only available to guests of their 15 rooms, meaning you’ll be able to really stretch out on the trail (note: stretching out before the trail is also a good idea).
#1 Luxurious Hunting Lodge: Open fireplaces, plaid armchairs, beamed cathedral ceilings, hand-carved European paneling and stone walls; what more could you want from a luxurious hunting lodge?
The striking 15-room structure can accommodate as many as 30 visitors and features 40-foot-high cathedral ceilings, museum-quality Western artworks, and nine fireplaces throughout the public spaces.
Luxe Way: Three Forks Ranch: Most visitors—about 30 at a time, maximum—come to fish. A mobile kitchen meets anglers to serve them lunches like grilled flatiron steak; at dinner, guests can choose from cult Napa bottlings like Opus One and Caymus.
The Best Hunting and Fishing Lodges: Intended to be the “Ritz-Carlton of the backcountry,” the sprawling lodge includes a 6,000-foot spa, an indoor/outdoor infinity pool overlooking aspen-covered hills, and a variety of guest rooms and suites.
Cast Away: Catching more trees than trout? Splurge on a trip to Three Forks Ranch, a Kansas City-size cattle ranch and fishing resort 40 miles north. The river is a little manicured, but there’s 16 miles of restored private water. The fish are wise as mules, and nearly as fat.
Our Seven Favorite Guest Ranches: Whether you’re out to ride, fish, soak in a hot spring, pitch in on chores or get treated to a farm-to-table feast, you’ll be able to find your home on the range.
We are honored to offer our guests direct access to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, the #1 healthcare system in the world. They have over 4,500 physicians and scientists working together, putting their patients first, above all else.
Over the years, we have recommended Mayo Clinic to numerous guests and have always been grateful that we did. As many as 88% of patients that go to Mayo Clinic for a second opinion receive a new or refined assessment!
The Mayo Clinic Executive Health Program leverages your visit time through a customized and comprehensive, one, two or three day itinerary of exams and tests conducted by a coordinating physician, and tailored to your specific needs. At the end of an evaluation, the coordinating physician will review the full report of test results with the patient and discuss the next steps.
Whether you go for a second opinion, predictive genomic counseling and testing or any of the multitude of services they offer, we are confident that you will be as impressed as we have been. We know that you will be in good hands until your next visit.
We have partnered with the world renowned Mayo Clinic to offer our guests the premier wellness destination in the world.
