About The Ranch

Vail, Colorado’s most breathtaking destination for weddings, retreats, day-trips and reunions

Set on the edge of Piney Lake, and nestled at the foot of the majestic Gore Range, Piney River Ranch is a private, forty-acre Rocky Mountain retreat, long known as a favorite wedding and day-trip destination. We are located just twelve miles north of Vail Village, surrounded by thousands of acres of back country wilderness within the White River National Forest.

Piney River Ranch is not only a picture perfect Colorado wedding and event venue. We have a variety of activities and summer fun for the entire family. From fly-fishing, hiking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, waterfalls or simply relaxing by the fire pit, Piney has something for everyone. We also offer lodging for our overnight guests and an on-site restaurant that boasts the best smoked BBQ around.

Piney River Ranch holds active partnerships with both the National Park Service and the Denver Water Board, each established to preserve the natural beauty of the ranch and its surrounding areas.

When to Visit

Piney River Ranch is open seasonally, from June 21st through the last Saturday in September. During our season, we are open from 9am to 6pm, daily to the general public unless there is an event scheduled, at which time we may close at 4pm. Please check the event calendar on the Weddings and Events page to see if your visit coincides with an event. The road to Piney does not open until June 21st and stays open beyond the closing date of the ranch. The U.S. Forest Service has jurisdiction over Red Sandstone Road, the road to the ranch, and dictates road openings and closings for the season, to ensure conditions are safe for travelers. We suggest calling the USFS on (970) 827 5715 after September 30th each year for updates on the road and its condition.

What to Expect

Piney River Ranch is located 9,350 feet above sea level at the end of a dirt road, maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. We encourage guests to allow 45 minutes of driving time from the entrance of the Forest Service road to the ranch itself. Navigation will not work as you leave the town of Vail to head up to the ranch. Please visit our DIRECTIONS page before traveling to the ranch.

Our remote high-altitude location can bring many variations in weather. On any given day, we may experience sun, high wind, rain, sleet and even snow. Additionally, the high altitude results in less protection from the sun, making sunscreen and sunglasses extremely important. Finally, be prepared for changing temperatures: early morning and after dark will dip the thermostat. We suggest that guests bring a light to medium jacket or sweater along for every trip to Piney River Ranch. Based on your day’s itinerary, we also encourage bringing hats, long pants, riding boots, hiking boots or rain gear for additional flexibility and protection.

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