What to Pack

What to bring (attire at the ranch is casual):

  • Long sleeved shirts are recommended for riding.  Our sun is strong so a light long-sleeve works the best.

  • Comfortable jeans for riding.  Wrangler brand jeans are made for riding with seams and rivets that reduce chafing when you ride.  Levis and designer jeans will “rub you the wrong way.”

  • Riding boots for riding.  Any horseback riding boot is the best choice.  We have some used boots that you can borrow in limited sizes.  In the event that we do not have a boot to fit your foot, the next best choice is any boot that has a heel and flat, smooth soles.  For your safety, hiking boots with raised tread will not be allowed.

  • Old sneakers or “water socks.”  Badger Creek has some “swimming/fishing” holes within a short distance of the ranch facilities.  If you choose to explore the creek, an old pair of sneakers is invaluable.  You might, also, want to include a bathing suit, especially if you decide to go on one of the many white-water rafting trips offered in Salida and Canon City.

  • Hiking boots and a fanny pack for hikes.

  • Warm jacket or heavy sweater for our cool evenings in our early and late seasons.

  • Rain jacket.  We provide slickers on our saddles, should we get caught in the rain while riding, but your own jacket can be nice if it rains while out on a hike.

  • Hat with a “stampede string” to keep it attached to you if it blows off your head.  We do have a rag tag collection of old hats that you may borrow although we cannot guarantee that we have appropriately sized hats for all.

  • Women should consider bringing a sports bra for horseback riding.

  • Binoculars (If you enjoy birding or want to get a better look at distant sites).

  • Sun glasses.

  • Sun screen and lip balm with sun block - the highest SPF possible.

  • Mosquito repellent for June and July.

  • Camera.

  • Remember to pack your medications - especially if you have allergies that provoke severe allergic reactions.  Altitude can aggravate a number of conditions so it’s a good idea to check with your physician to learn how it might affect you.

  • Badger Creek Ranch does not have a liquor license. However, you are welcome to bring wine, beer, spirits and mixers to the ranch.  Glasses, ice, and such are all available here.  Alcohol is available for purchase on your way to the ranch.

What not to bring: While the ranch is an extremely safe environment, we recommend that you leave valuables at home.

Laundry: We offer laundry facilities on a limited basis to our guests.  Laundry detergent is provided.