Activities Cow Creek Ranch, where fish are measured by the pound and not the inch.   Fly Fishing   An angler’s paradise, this Orvis endorsed fly fishing lodge is one of New Mexico’s best kept secrets. Fish 4 ½ miles of private stream and seven high mountain lakes teeming with trophy rainbows, browns and brookies. Never open to the public, this well-nurtured section of Cow Creek is a small stream, one of those tight shady marvels with riffles and deep pools, and a population of trout that average 16” – 20”in size and many larger. Cast close to willows or work a fly through pockets.  All fishing at Cow Creek Ranch is catch-and-release, with the exception of the occasional fish that can be kept and fried for breakfast. Anglers fish at private stations, which they choose daily. The more adventurous can also trek up the valley to try out the waters of the surrounding national forest. Experienced guides offer careful instruction to guests of all levels, from beginners to seasoned anglers. Horseback Riding The best way to truly experience the ranch and its natural beauty is on horseback. Ride one of our fine string of mountain trail horses up the many trails which wander for miles through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As you ride through lush green valleys, fields of native wildflowers, and groves of glistening aspen, keep your eyes open, as you will most likely encounter some of our local wildlife.  We welcome riders from five years old and older. Guided Wilderness Hikes Take an educational journey through nature with our very own naturalist guide. Learn to recognize the signs of local wildlife as you cross game trails. Learn about each animal’s habitat and food pattern. Discover and identify native wildflowers and learn about the life cycle of vegetation in the forest. Spa Services Let Cow Creek Ranch rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit. Choose from a comforting array of spa treatments including massages, facials, aromatherapy, pedicures and yoga. Whether it is a hot stone massage, chosen to relax the muscles after a long day of fishing, or a full day of treatments designed to melt your worries away, the promise is a feeling of clear mountain exhilaration. Sporting Clays Both addictive and challenging, sporting clays is often referred to as "golf with a gun". Instead of sinking a ball into a hole, shooters aim to break targets along a designated course. Families, men, women and children can safely enjoy this energetic sport.  Cow Creek Ranch boasts a most unique and challenging Sporting Clays range.  Enjoy the courses' 13 stations tucked away in one of the ranch's most beautiful valleys.  We provide all necessary equipment for the course including ammo, protective eye wear, ear plugs and fine quality Beretta 391, 12 gauge shotguns. Evening Entertainment: In addition to the standard activities such as playing a game of poker or sitting around the bar, fireplace or bon fire, we can provide western entertainment with a local flair. Western musicians, bands, cowboy poets, Mariachi music or professional talks about the history of the area are all available upon request.  If a traditional square dance is more your style, we can provide that as well.  Breakfast Ride and Fish Fry These two activities take place on different days of the week and give guests the opportunity to enjoy a Ranch-style meal shared with other guests in the great outdoors.  The breakfast ride takes place on Tuesday mornings up the valley from the lodge. Guests have the choice of riding horseback, walking or driving to the destination to enjoy a tasty Chuckwagon style meal in the crisp morning air. The fish fry takes place on Friday evening at a different location on the ranch along side the stream. Guests trek or drive up the valley to relax and enjoy a savory dinner of fried trout in the beauty of the surrounding hillsides.   Children's Program The ranch offers an extensive children’s program daily for children ages four and older. Supervised recreational activities, such as horseback riding (ages 5 and up), treasure hunts, crafts, and games are all centered on an education in the great outdoors and will teach your children a love and respect for nature.  Archery * Pack Trips * Horse Shoes Hay Rides * Fly Fishing Lessons * Mountain Biking Whether you are an avid angler, horseman, hiker, or wildlife enthusiast, or you just like to kick back and relax, Cow Creek Ranch has something for you.