Cocktails and cots on horseback safari into Colorado’s back country

Smith Fork Ranch, halfway between Telluride and Aspen in Colorado, has been long-known for its posh digs amid a spectacular outdoor setting. Now the ranch goes farther by taking guests on a ‘horseback safari’ into the back country for a campout.

The safari promises to take participants to hidden lakes and streams, scenic panoramas, teeming wildlife habitats and more -- all with a touch of rustic luxury.

It’s guided by Tony and Darby Pendergrast of Landsend Outfitters, a father-and-son team said to know know every inch of Smith Fork’s back country.

The day before the trip, guests become acquainted with their guides — and the mountain horses and pack mules that will be carrying them, their food and their gear.

The next morning, the group sets off on a 2.5-hour ride under tall peaks on trails used by the Ute Indians 150 years ago. Sink Creek, the final destination,is a private camp located at 10,000 feet underneath towering Mt. Guaro.

The camp is outfitted with safari-style walk-in tents, cots with mattresses, cozy sleeping bags, a private toilet tent and more.

The Smith Fork Ranch version of roughing it includes cocktails and hors d’oeuvres along with views of a clear creek and a meadow with endless wildflowers bordering a shimmering aspen grove.

Dinner is served in a lantern-lighted tent and features organic, grass-fed beef from cattle raised by the Pendergrasts. Fresh vegetables come from Smith Fork’s farmstead garden. In the morning, guests revel in a breakfast cooked on an open flame and a meadow walk before riding back to the ranch.

The overnight camping adventure costs $600 per person.

Info: Smith Fork Ranch, 45362 Needle Rock Road, Crawford, Colo.; (970) 921-3454

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