6 Picturesque Guest Ranches Where You Can Experience A Piece Of New Mexico's Rural Life
By Monica Spencer|Published January 27, 2020
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
Are you looking forward to experiencing a slower pace of life, even if just for a weekend? Life in New Mexico’s rural landscape is one of the best examples of that quieter lifestyle. Ranch life can be tough but there’s a romance to subsisting with the land.
If you’re looking for a chance to experience a smidgen of this lifestyle without the back-breaking work that often accompanies it, then you’ll want to visit some of New Mexico’s guest ranches. At these locations, you’ll be able to spend a few nights on a working ranch, ride horses, and eat hearty meals for the duration of your stay. Check them out!
Have you ever wanted to take a peek at what life on a cattle and sheep ranch looks like? Burnt Well Guest Ranch in Roswell has been taking in guests for nearly 20 years. Spend the night in a rustic casita or plan for a camping opportunity on an actual cattle drive.
On the other side of the state is Concho Hills Ranch, which sits in the foothills of the San Mateo Mountains and has some gorgeous views. During a stay here, you'll be treated to tasty meals, horseback riding, and a peek into ranch life. Plus, you will love the rustic ambiance of the ranch house featuring cozy rooms decorated with antiques.
You probably know Santa Rosa for the Blue Hole, but it's also home to this lovely cattle ranch in a remote location. During a stay here, you'll get to see just what goes into dealing with 300 head of cattle! The hacienda is picturesque with six guestrooms and you'll get to enjoy hearty meals and getting to know the four-legged creatures around here.
Website: Creek Ranch Address: 1072 Paseo Del Sol Road, Santa Rosa, NM 88435
Phone: 575-472-0472
This dude ranch is open from March through November and you'll have the opportunity to see what life is like in the lovely ranch near Gila National Forest. Stay in one of the little secluded cabins, enjoy three exceptionally hearty meals, and explore some local trails on horseback.
Hidden away in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this little ranch is picturesque and the perfect hideaway from modern life. The cabins here are rustic and free of distracting electronics. Enjoy fresh, homemade food, embark on a guided horse ride, and even head out for some bird watching opportunities.
This guest ranch is nestled in the mountains near Reserve and requires a long drive to reach it, so this place is ideal for those looking to unplug for an entire weekend. The entire location is electricity-free and it's highly likely your phone won't work here either, so it offers a unique chance to reconnect with nature.