About North Fork Ranch
Genuine Colorado Hospitality Since 1985
Welcome to North Fork Ranch, a family-owned Colorado mountain lodge where guests come to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Set on 520 private acres in Shawnee, Colorado, our secluded ranch offers the feeling of a true mountain escape just one hour west of Denver. Families, couples, friends, corporate groups, and retreat guests come here for comfortable lodging, homemade meals, outdoor activities, and the rare chance to spend meaningful time together without the usual distractions.
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
Meet your hosts
North Fork Ranch has welcomed guests since 1985. Today, Nick and Hayley Horner and their daughters carry on that tradition with a personal, hands-on approach to hospitality.
From helping you plan your stay to serving homemade meals and sharing a friendly conversation, our family and staff want you to feel genuinely at home here. We believe the best mountain getaways are not overly complicated. They are built around a warm welcome, good food, beautiful surroundings, and the freedom to enjoy each day at your own pace.
Whether you are visiting for a family vacation, corporate retreat, group gathering, or peaceful weekend away, we are here to make your stay comfortable and memorable.
HISTORY OF THE RANCH
NORTH FORK OF THE SOUTH PLATTE RIVER
The North Fork of the South Platte River is part of the landscape and history of North Fork Ranch. This scenic Colorado waterway travels approximately 50 miles before joining the South Platte River about 20 miles from Denver. Its water flows through Roberts Tunnel, which carries water beneath the Continental Divide and helps create the river’s distinctive environment.
Much of the North Fork passes through private property, preserving the peaceful, secluded character of this mountain corridor. At North Fork Ranch, the river flows within approximately 50 feet of the lodge, giving guests a beautiful setting to enjoy during their Colorado mountain stay.
The river is home to brown and rainbow trout, including fish that have reportedly reached weights of up to 25 pounds. Guests interested in fishing may arrange a separate trip with an independent local outfitter. Fishing guide services are not operated by North Fork Ranch.
NORTH FORK RANCH POND
The North Fork Ranch pond adds another peaceful feature to the property and offers families a relaxed place to spend time outdoors during their stay. Guests may enjoy independent recreational fishing at the pond, including family-friendly spin fishing, subject to current ranch rules and availability.
Additional private fishing properties are located approximately five to ten minutes from the lodge, including Boxwood Gulch Ranch, Long Meadow Ranch, and Rowdy Trout Ranch. Access, instruction, and guided fishing experiences must be arranged separately through independent outfitters or the individual properties.
Together, the river, pond, and surrounding mountain landscape contribute to the natural character of North Fork Ranch—a secluded Colorado lodge for family vacations, retreats, group gatherings, and relaxing getaways just one hour west of Denver.