It took no more than 10 minutes after we had departed Snow Mountain Ranch before my son wanted to know when we could go back again. It could have been the mini golf course or the swimming pool or arts and crafts lodge, but I think it was all the outdoor activities that gave us time to exercise and an opportunity to bond that really got my little guy hooked.

A Hike To Remember

There are trails all over this vast property that cater to hikers of all skill levels—which means that even younger kiddos can enjoy them one too. Furthermore, there are guided experiences that will help young children get the most from an outing among the flowers and trees. Our favorite hike, however, led us to a waterfall.

With a few snacks and a ton of water, the trek slowly takes visitors on an easy trail flanked by a gentle stream. With each step you take, the trickle gets louder and louder and the free flowing water expands, inviting young children to splash about. Don’t get distracted though, as the main attraction is still ahead.

When the path starts to get a bit more steep, you know that you’ve almost made it. At the top, kids of all ages can roam about and soak themselves in the freezing mountain ice melts that fall from the small waterfall at the end of the path. Be careful for slippery rocks while you play!

Everybody Outdoors

As much as we appreciate all of the indoor activities that Snow Mountain Ranch provides to visitors—magic shows, making hiking sticks, learning about bugs—what really makes this place exciting is all of the things you can do outside with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop.

Get physical with activities like forest ziplining (for ages 8 and up) and rock climbing, test your skills with archery, or rent some bikes and explore the property as a family. For something a bit more leisurely, do some catch and release fishing down at the reservoir or hop in a canoe and paddle about in search for ducks or fish that, to our baby’s delight, jump out of the water to greet you.

No Snow, No Problem

By far, the most popular activity at Snow Mountain Ranch is the summer tubing hill—no snow required. This attraction books quickly, so call ahead and reserve spots for your family as soon as you can. Kids ages 3 to 6 can ride double with an adult and older kids are welcome to experience the hill solo, although a combo tube with a heavy adult does tend to make the ride a faster, wilder one.

At the top of the hill you have fantastic views of the landscape. Once you are sitting securely in your tube, the staff will give you the option to spin, go down straight or go down backwards. Now it’s time to hold on! The first slope sends you down hard and fast with the water that propels your tube along the mat spraying up into your face, which feels wonderful on hot summer days. You’ll make it over a few humps and then disembark to get on the ramp that will carry you back up to the top for your next round.

Lots Of Options At Snow Mountain Ranch

If you want, you can certainly stop in and play on the summer tubing hill for the day, but to really make the most of this wonderful place, you’re going to want to book a stay. You can take your RV, book a cabin or a lodge room, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try out a yurt. There is cafeteria-style eats available for breakfast, lunch and dinner so no one will go hungry while they explore all that Snow Mountain Ranch has to offer.

I couldn’t say if it was the tubing hill or the waterfall trail or an hour of intense rock climbing, but my kids (even the baby!) had an amazing time and are already begging to go back to Snow Mountain Ranch.