Recreational Activities

viewDuring family and marriage retreats, each day from lunch to dinner is free time for you to enjoy the recreational opportunities in this spectacular corner of God’s creation. Here are some of the activities you might consider:

Hiking: There are plenty of opportunities for hiking while you are at SMR. The Cimarron Valley has trails for all kinds of hikers. You can choose to take a walk along the river on our nature trail, hike around the picturesque Silverjack Reservoir, travel up the valley IMG_3153to the Alpine Trail to see grand vistas or the trail at Middle Fork to view the beautiful waterfall.  From steep and challenging to flat and relaxing, you’ll be able to find what you’d like.

Fishing: River or lake, public or private, rainbow or brown, cutthroat or brookie, choose your favorites. You can fish our own ¼ mile stretch of the Cimarron River. Close by are Silverjack Reservoir, the East and Middle forks of the Cimarron, and the famous Black Canyon.  Remember to pick up a Colorado fishing license prior to arrival.

Paddle Boating: We have two paddle boats for you and your family to enjoy on our small lake.

Kayaking/Canoeing: We have kayaks and canoes available that you can use on our lake or at Silverjack Reservoir only four miles away.P1090674

Black Canyon National Park: Visit the amazing Black Canyon of the Gunnison River. You can hike, fish, or just marvel at the 2,000 foot cliffs. There are incredible views from the canyon rim and canyon floor. The road to the river and canyon floor is normally open from May through October.

Ouray, Ridgway, and Telluride: These are neat little towns nestled among towering peaks.  The hot springs pool in Ouray is a family favorite.  There are countless options for shopping, sightseeing, historical tours, and dining of all kinds. These picturesque mountain towns are a great place to spend an afternoon.

Horseback Riding: There are outfitters near the Black Canyon, in Ridgway, and in Ouray.  We cannot recommend any specific outfitters but we can help you connect with each outfit so you can check out the policies and prices. Reservations are normally required.  winter trees

Snowshoeing: We have a collection of snowshoes you can use to hike this snow-covered valley. There are not many places you can’t go on snowshoes during the winter season. This is a great way to enjoy the winter wonderland and get a workout at the same time.

Sledding: You are welcome to use our collection of sleds/tubes to enjoy the thrill of sliding down one of the great sledding hills in the area.  If you have your own sleds, you are welcome to bring them as well. This is one of the favorite activities for families during the winter.

Ice Skating: Our lake freezes over in the winter.  Depending on the conditions, it can turn into a great ice rink.  We have a wide selection of ice skates you can use while you are here.  This makes for a wonderful activity on a sunny afternoon followed by hot cocoa.