A Vacation Travelogue
from Mel Coker

Previous Page * You're now on Page 3 * Next Page

Ever thought of a really "different" vacation? Want to learn more about a "dude" or guest ranch vacation? You're invited to follow along on our Internet Vacation Travelogue and learn about the fun we had on our August 2000 vacation at Waunita Hot Springs Ranch in Colorado.

Mel, Barbara & Kelly Coker

August 8, 2000 - Day 3 at Waunita
Breakfast ride, River rafting

I'm up early to get ready for our morning breakfast ride. I'm soon able to raise Barbara from her restful night of sleep. And, Kelly is up early also. This morning, we mount our horses for 45 minute ride to breakfast on a scenic spot overlooking the Colorado Rockies. Breakfast on the trail is really tasty. All of the Pringle family join in to help with breakfast. And, a popular Waunita fixture, Eric, joins in to serve all of the guests. Eric does it all at the ranch (well, no rafting and riding!) -- maintenance, fishing instructions and trips, cooking, checking out all of the other cooking going on, tall stories and more. When you visit Waunita, be sure to tell Eric that Mel Coker said "hello."

DeAngelis family Naperville, IL

Waunita breakfast in the mountains Rod & Junelle Pringle & Eric

Birthday in the Rockies! Meihofer family

John Nelson & Ryan Pringle Discussing Cowboy Poetry???

At 2:00 p.m. we leave Waunita Ranch in a bus for our Taylor River rafting trip. Most of the 48 guests at Waunita choose to take the Class 2 or Class 3 trip down the Taylor River. The Taylor River is a scenic whitewater river near Gunnison and Crested Butte, Colorado. This was our third trip down the Taylor River. Our daughter decided not to raft this time (she did raft in 1998) and stayed back at the ranch for more riding on the trails around Waunita. Our 6 mile section of the Taylor River was full of great rapids and scenery. My rafting buddy, Arnie, was full of energy. Arnie and his wife and daughter accompanied my wife and I in the raft (along with the guide). We got wet, with very cold water, and had a great time! Rafting is highly recommended. It's another Wauntia Hot Springs Ranch option included in your all-inclusive vacation package at NO EXTRA cost!

After rafting, we're taken back to the rafting outfitter's store to change into dry clothing. We're also treated to hot chocolate. Then we're on the bus for the hour trip back to Waunita. Upon arrival at the ranch, it's time for another Waunita meal -- Beef brisket, brocolli, potatoes, salad, and brownies and ice cream.

Tammy Pringle with Kitchen Staff

Prescott Family Dana Point, CA

Later in the evening, Mrs. Pringle presented a Waunita Hot Springs Ranch slide show to tell the history of this impressive location. This is a definite must to learn how the Pringle family came to own this historic property in 1962. They have entertained guests from all over the USA and several foreign countries since opening their guest ranch.

A Note About WEATHER at Waunita The dude / guest ranch experience at Waunita is available from late May until late September (call or email for exact dates AND book early in the year for your vacation). On our three trips (1996, 1998, 2000), we have encountered very little rain (water is a precious commodity in the West). Temperatures during this time generally can range to the 30s and 40s at night (mornings warm up very quickly) and to the 70s and low 80s during the day.

Click Here to Continue

BOOK YOUR WAUNITA HOT SPRINGS RANCH VACATION...

Call (970) 641-1266
email Waunita Hot Springs Ranch

Travelogue by Mel Coker