Frequently Asked Questions
The High Lonesome Ranch’s commitment to Land and Conservation of Wildlife and Habitat compels us to act following the recent Pine Gulch Fire event, the largest fire in Colorado State history at almost 140,000 acres of burn area. HLR, with some of its neighbors, was center to the Pine Gulch Fire resulting in a substantial burn area. HLR has taken a position that wildlife and land require time for natural rehabilitation.
The HLR Board of Directors has unanimously agreed to stop all hunting operations on our private and BLM permitted lands (SRP’s) both inside and outside of the fire perimeter. We are restricting owners, employees, and vendors from accessing our private lands for hunting or related commercial operations. HLR will also restrict operational access within the fire perimeter except for planning and remediation work to halt the inevitable erosion of the exposed soils. The Pine Gulch Fire Event has impacted a large swath of habitat that was already suffering from record drought.
These lands provide habitat to wildlife, grazing for livestock, recreation for enthusiasts and solace for those seeking quiet places and simpler times. Many of our lands and agricultural leases were severely impacted. We are thankful to have the ability to look to the future, adjust and plan for the next months and years, as we find our way forward in these new conditions.
The High Lonesome Ranch is nestled just north of De Beque, CO in high desert valleys with very few areas of reliable cell service. All guest houses and the headquarters have wi-fi access that is available free to guests. Because of poor connectivity away from ranch buildings, we encourage guests to review and download maps and navigational software before leaving these areas.
While on the Ranch, you can expect rough gravel roads with clay type soil and shale rocks. Be mindful of the weather and sudden thunderstorms that will cause the roads to become slick, muddy, and hazardous as well as the potential of channels of water cutting across roads in the event of very heavy rains. Do not drive off designated roads, especially in the burn scarred area as the risk of getting flat tires and becoming stranded are significant. If you are uncertain about a road or path, please speak to staff before proceeding.
The High Lonesome Ranch is a working ranch with many domesticated animals including cattle, goats, burros, and working dogs. While on the ranch, please do not approach or interact with livestock or working dogs without the presence and guidance of staff. We’ll be happy to show them to you and tell you about our Regenerative Ranching practices, which entail low-stress handling techniques.
This is especially important with baby and young animals that may be scared by your approach and cause mother animals and guard dogs to become protective.
Livestock on the High Lonesome Ranch will often be near electrified polywire fences. Please keep your distance from these fences and do not touch them as they will shock you.
The Ranch is home to abundant wildlife including deer, elk, black bears, coyotes, mountain lions, snakes, birds, etc. Please be mindful of your surroundings and know that wild animals can be protective of their young and space. Predators will typically avoid humans, but keep in mind that they can be dangerous if they are surprised or feel threatened. To avoid startling animals, it is always a good idea to plenty of noise as you’re traveling on the ranch. For more information, check out the many resources available on “Living with Wildlife” that are available online, at your nearest BLM or Colorado Parks and Wildlife office, and library.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife – Living with Wildlife (state.co.us)
The High Lonesome Ranch understand that your pet(s) are family, and we want to make it possible for them to join you on vacation. We also want to make sure that everyone on the property feels comfortable and safe with the addition of our furry friends. However, we want to make sure that animals won’t disrupt our operations, damage properties, or cause medical issues to other employees, 3rd party vendors, or guests.
We do allow well behaved pets. We do not allow Aggressive Animals. The High Lonesome Ranch has a zero-tolerance for animals with a history of aggression or biting.
We reserve the right to refuse or terminate a stay based on a pet we deem potentially dangerous to people or other animals. The High Lonesome Ranch cannot be held responsible for injury or death of a pet due to interactions with wildlife, guardian dogs or donkeys, and environmental acts.
Dogs must be leashed at all times. A pet agreement must be signed, and pet deposit must be paid in full prior to arrival.
From Denver
Take exit 62 for De Beque from I-70 West and go right onto Roan Creek Road from the exit stop sign. Proceed on Roan Creek Road for about 4 miles and turn left on X 1/2 Road. The pavement will end, and you’ll be on the gravel County Road 200. Continue for roughly 7 miles. You’ll pass flag poles and then Guest House on your right as the road curves and becomes County Road 222. Look for the cluster of small log buildings on your right and pull into the first drive. Check-in at The Mercantile.
From Grand Junction
Take exit 62 for De Beque from I-70 East and go left onto Roan Creek Road from the exit stop sign. Proceed on Roan Creek Road for about 4 miles and turn left on X 1/2 Road. The pavement will end, and you’ll be on the gravel County Road 200. Continue for roughly 7 miles. You’ll pass flag poles and then Guest House on your right as the road curves and becomes County Road 222. Look for the cluster of log buildings on your right and pull into the first drive. Check-in at The Mercantile.
