Smith Fork Ranch

Location

Set against a backdrop of the majestic Rocky Mountains and vast open skies, Smith Fork Ranch is celebrated for its scenic hiking trails and panoramic mountain views. Nestled between the West Welk Wilderness and the Gunnison National Forest, the ranch overlooks a diverse landscape of towering volcanic peaks, dense aspen groves, black canyons, and lush meadows where elk and deer graze. Here, the sun rises over Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-topped mountain, and sets over Needle Rock in the west. The region is often referred to as the “fruit and wine basket of the Rockies”, offering a delightful array of wineries and organic farms. At an altitude of over 7,000 feet, it is one of North America’s most distinctive wine regions, perfect for an artisanal winemaking experience in an alpine setting.

Dining

Smith Fork Ranch celebrates the culinary heritage of this fertile region with a farm-to-table dining ethos, sourcing ingredients sustainably from its own gardens and neighboring farms. Menus change daily to reflect the seasons, and meals are served in ever-changing locations, from the riverbank to a lantern-lit table in the Bell, a cabin inspired by a traditional Western diner. Breakfast options include a country cookout in the mountains or a ranch buffet, while sundowners and appetizers are served around the fire pit before evening meals. Take part in cooking classes or wild foraging excursions and select fine wines from the cellar to pair with meals, adding a refined touch to the ranch’s culinary experience.