Kids Program

Tumbling River is well-known as the premier kids & teens ranch in Colorado, for good reason: our counselors gravitate toward the children’s interests and relish the opportunity to introduce them to the Western lifestyle, offering the rare opportunity to “unplug” and spend some quality time outdoors. We know that kids having fun will ultimately “force” parents to relax and enjoy what we do as well!

Ours is a flexible program, built both to allow families ample time together and kids & teens to have plenty of their own adventures. We are asked all the time about the flexibility with the age groups and whether kids can move into other age groups or stay together. Our decisions are based on the safety for your kids and the enjoyment of the programs. Kids must be 8 years old to ride a horse on their own and the overnight pack trip is a teen (14+) only activity, other than those two rules, we will do our best to be flexible and handle your family’s requests. The success of our kids programs is knowing that your kids are going to have an awesome time with our counselors and all the fun we have set-up for them…let them go and take on the day! We invite you to learn more about our 2024 kid’s and teen’s activities when you give us a call to discuss your reservation. 

So, how does it work and what will your kids be doing?

All but two of our meals are served family style, so bring your kiddos to breakfast, get them well fed and then turn them over to us! You don’t even have to remember sunscreen because we will apply that as well as making sure your kids are hydrated and fed. Each age group typically starts each morning at 8:45 am and runs through the entire day. We think of it as “kids camp” at a dude ranch.

If you have a child that is 3 and under and are interested in details of our nanny group, please contact us directly to discuss available options. 

*Kid programming is subject to changes.*

Kids Program, Ages 3-5

Don’t let their age fool you! Our 3-5 year-olds have a jam-packed dude ranch adventure waiting just for them. The day kicks off with these budding ranch hands diving right into caring for our critter pen – think feeding, watering, and bonding with our friendly animals. But that’s just the beginning! From making a splash in the swimming pool to hands-on western crafts like painting with flowers, these little ones are in for a treat. They’ll be scaling Star Mountain, reeling in their first fish, teaming up with our chefs to whip up a surprise for mom & dad, and even trying their hand at archery and shooting sports. 

With our enthusiastic kids’ counselors leading the charge, every day is a new adventure, filled with smiles, laughter, and anticipation for what’s next!

Kids Program, 6-11

Welcome to the heart of the action! Our 6-11 age group is often our liveliest bunch each week. These young adventurers will master the trails on horseback (age 9+) , kids age 6 to 8 can hone their horsemanship skills in the arena and the ranch (hand-led), and all ages can delve deep into horse care fundamentals, right from the ground up – think saddling and grooming. But the fun doesn’t stop at the stables! At Tumbling River, we’re bursting with activities for this spirited group. They’ll dive into swimming, embark on thrilling hikes, dominate in games of GA-GA ball, and discover the joy of fishing. Challenge? They’ll conquer obstacle courses, and showcase perfect their aim in archery. And just a heads-up, parents: you might need some extra luggage space for the myriad of creative projects they’ll be bringing home. Who’s ready for unique scavenger hunt finds and vibrant TRR tie-dye shirts? Let the fun begin!

Teen Program

Teenagers, it’s your time to shine at Tumbling River! Here, you’re never too old to have fun and never too young to crave adventure. Say goodbye to those awkward family holidays where you’re either glued to your parents’ side or banished with the younger kids. At our ranch, teens can embrace every activity, be it alongside family or with newfound friends. You’re welcome on all horseback rides, from leisurely trails to adrenaline-packed gallops, and yes, that thrilling overnight pack trip is reserved for those aged 14 and up.

But it’s not just about the horses. We’ve packed our program with exhilarating activities like rock climbing, trap shooting, and fly-fishing. Our dedicated teen counselors have a sixth sense for fun, sprinkling in outdoor sports games, immersive horse clinics, exclusive teen hot tub parties, engaging card games, challenges like ascending Flag Mountain, and even a water balloon showdown in the arena.

While your parents indulge in fine dining on Tuesday and Thursday nights, gear up for the “Teens Only Club Night.” Be prepared for some creative filmmaking – who knows, you might just direct the next viral sensation!

Take your kids on a trip they'll remember forever at the Tumbling River Ranch.

Call us today for reservations:

303-838-5981

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