The C Lazy U Ranch in Grand County, Colorado: Dude Ranch Capital of the U.S., By Leroy Worley

Grand County's six world-class dude ranches are making it more affordable for vacationers to unleash their inner wrangler. The ranches (www.dude-ranch.com) announce special rates for cowpokes of all ages to trade in their business suits for a set of chaps. Most of the ranch packages are all-inclusive, offering lodging, meals and activities such as horseback riding. Additionally, each has its own unique way of rustlin' up an authentic Western experience, so it's recommended visitors research and choose a ranch that best suits their style. Here is one of our favorites:

When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life you could head to the beach or find thrills at a great theme park or you could try something unique; visit a Dude Ranch. One of  Grand County Colorado's affordable ranches is the C Lazy U Ranch, which has excellent amenities and programs for guests to enjoy. What a better way to unwind than to take in Colorado's beauty and experience the everyday life on a ranch.

Guests from around the world travel to the spectacular 8,000-acre C Lazy U Ranch. The present day owners, the Murray family of Kansas City, purchased the ranch in 1988, after vacationing as guests for nearly 30 years. The ranch has earned a reputation for providing first-class guest service and Special Amenities like Trail rides that explore the ranch’s 8,000 acres, 12,000 square foot indoor heated riding arena, and horseback-riding and lessons. What is really nice is that each guest has their own horse for the week, which creates a truly memorable getaway for those who love horseback riding.

Afterwards you can relax in the heated, spring-fed swimming pool and Jacuzzi complete with waterfall, the Indoor sauna and Jacuzzi, or workout in the Fitness center. Guests also enjoy complimentary high-speed wireless internet service throughout the Ranch facilities, a Game room that is popular with the kids, a Bar and lounge, and for those who want to keep track of business there is the Executive Corral which features desks, phones and data port/modem lines, and is available 24 hours a day. Did I mention the C Lazy U Ranch also offers Massage Therapy?

Among the activities guests can enjoy during their stay at the C Lazy U Ranch in the summer are: Horseback riding, Hiking, Fly fishing, Hay Rides, Trap Shooting, Row boating, Sports like Basketball, Tennis, and Volleyball, Horseshoes, Shodeo, enjoy Cookouts and Evening Entertainment like square dancing, campfires and singing. The fun does not stop in the winter when you can go Sledding, Snow tubing, Snowshoeing, Cross country skiing, Ice skating, and share a romantic Champagne sleigh rides. And don't forget to check out the C Lazy U Ranch Trading Post for unique gifts, clothing, jewelry, photography and many other goodies.

To find out about current packages available and plan you trip to the C Lazy U Ranch visit www.clazyu.com for current packages available.