From the moment you cross the magnificent log bridge for Sleeping Indian Ranch, the majestic view of the ranch comes into view and you’ll know you’ve arrived at something special. This private estate set on 15,000 acres, is nestled in a broad valley on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains, known as the “Gateway to the San Juan Mountains,” the showpiece 40,000-plus square-foot, the seven-bedroom lodge welcomes families who dream of wide-open spaces. Built-in 1993 as a private family vacation estate, Sleeping Indian Ranch was designed by Douglas S. Ewing, FAIA, and is an American Institute of Architects award-winning home. The largest post-and-beam log structure ever built evoking the arts and crafts movement, Sleeping Indian Ranch was inspired by the legendary great lodges of Yellowstone and Yosemite. This warm and comfortable home, which can sleep up to 16 guests, is a rare architectural masterpiece constructed with reclaimed logs from the 1988 Yellowstone fire some of which are up to 50 inches in diameter.

Unspoiled Nature at its Finest

Located 47 miles northwest of Telluride, and just six miles southeast of Ridgway, Sleeping Indian Ranch is situated in the unspoiled Cimarron Range – a haven where elk, deer, black bears, and bald eagles grace the land and the blue Colorado skies. Guests are completely surrounded by sublime nature with stunning vistas of steep forested mountains and the cliffs of Cimarron Ridge and Chimney Rock. The pioneering spirit of the destination embraces guests with an aura of liberty, adventure, and limitless creativity while maintaining a sense of complete privacy.

A private retreat intended for family getaways, intimate reunions, corporate groups, and stunning weddings, Sleeping Indian Ranch marries the grandness of the west with all the desired conveniences, exquisite furnishings, and personal high-touch service. Guests have the rare opportunity to escape the hustle and noise pollution of city life and enter a place where the air is crisp and imagination is as boundless as the reigning big sky. The ranch invites travelers to marvel at the possibilities of its immense domain while sitting by the fire and sharing stories. As the seasons change, so does the spectacular views of brilliant fall color transitioning to snow-capped mountains, and spring foliage to the bright summer wildflowers. Activities include heli-skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, horseback riding, fly fishing, trap shooting, ATV riding, snowmobiling, hiking, and more. Whether celebrating life’s simple pleasures such as sipping an aged bourbon on the patio terrace and bundling up under a fur-lined blanket while overlooking the grazing elk; or indulging in more extravagant displays such as romantic hot air balloon rides at sunset and dogsledding across the snowy fields, Sleeping Indian is an unrivaled place to create stories and memories alongside loved ones. After returning from an early hike or heli-ski excursion, savor a delicious lunch by Madeline’s executive chef in the grand dining room before heading off to the shooting range for target practice. A more intrepid experience can be had at 9,000 feet at the picture-perfect Elk Cabin, which used to house sheepherders and features intricate carvings from the 1930s.

Stunning Social Spaces

The centerpiece of the home is the Great Room,  where logs of up to 50-inch diameter were used in the 38-foot high ceilings, creating one of the west’s most spectacular interior spaces. A cozy bar is crafted from Claro Walnut and creates the perfect ambiance for libations and discussions next to matching walk-in stone fireplaces with 16-foot-long mantels. Mealtime is a chance to gather in either the dining hall, which can seat up to 25 guests at a long table lit by custom bronze cast lighting fixtures, or outside on the terrace. A professional chef’s kitchen of over 2,000 square feet can handle any occasion, and a smaller family kitchen features a cozy dining alcove with a fireplace. Additional luxurious amenities include a media room and cigar room, along with a three-room wine cellar of pure handcrafted limestone with tile vaulted ceiling and forged iron doors. Intimate dinners of six to eight can be held in the 3,000 bottle capacity cellar, guarded by a fifteenth-century suit of armor.

Comfortable and Cozy Guest Suites

When it’s time to retire after the bright stars come out, a Primary Suite beckons with two oversized bedrooms and a sleeping loft. Three additional suites can sleep six to eight people each and include the Santa Fe Suite with two bedrooms and a loft; and the all pine Swiss Suite with a primary bedroom, sleeping loft, kitchen, and children’s bunkroom. Three unique single bedrooms include the Molesworth Room complete with authentic pieces designed by Thomas C. Molesworth, the famous western furniture designer of the early 1900s; the English Room featuring an intricate Claro Walnut interior; and the Western Room with barn wood décor. The ranch is accessible via private air or chauffeured ground transport from either Montrose or Telluride.