Randy and Pam Johnson, along with their daughter Merrill, relocated from Chicago, Illinois, to a 67-acre property known as Cedar Ridge Ranch in Missouri Heights, Colorado. This ranch now offers a unique glamping getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, showcasing views of nature and modern amenities, including a private yurt, two safari tents, and a farmhouse.
Pam Johnson recalled that they came out, saw the blue skies, and went river rafting, horseback riding, and hiking. That night, they realized they had to change their lives. The allure of the valley’s natural beauty prompted the Johnsons to move, and they soon discovered the ranch while living in a small cabin.
Merrill’s passion for horses grew, leading her to compete in events such as hunter jumpers, reining, and Western riding. After college, Merrill returned to Cedar Ridge Ranch to manage the equestrian program and ranch operations. Her approach, known as natural horsemanship, emphasizes building trust, respect, and love between rider and horse.
About six years ago, the Johnsons expanded their offerings to include agritourism, introducing pet-friendly glamping tents, yurts, a stargazer cabin, and a farmhouse. “We wanted to offer different types of living and different types of being with nature. We thought we’d been so blessed; how do we keep sharing the blessing?” Merrill said, as reported by The Aspen Times on June 9.
Adding unique activities, such as Alpaca Yoga, has further enhanced the ranch’s appeal. This combines yoga with the calming presence of alpacas, providing a unique and serene experience for participants.
According to its website, the ranch, which opens for the summer, provides various accommodations with high-end amenities. Guests can choose from options including a private yurt, two safari tents, a farmhouse, or a secluded cabin among the trees.
In the safari sanctuary glamping tent, guests can relax in the deluxe four-poster king-sized bed, ideal for a romantic retreat. Outside the tent, the “precious privy” offers a hot rain-style shower, a flushing toilet, and a porcelain sink for added convenience.
Other amenities include complimentary WiFi, a full set of dishes and cookware, a French press, a mini-fridge, a propane grill for outdoor dining, a hot and cold water dispenser for instant refreshment, and private bathroom facilities with courtesy towels.
Merrill also mentioned that their philosophy is to “come to connect, create, cultivate.” She encourages people to come and create amazing experiences. “Create amazing experiences, new chapters, new ideas, new habits, new thought processes. Most importantly, come connect with yourself, with other people, and with your highest potential,” she said.
For more information about Cedar Ridge Ranch, visit cedarridgeranch.com.
Featured image by Cedar Ridge Ranch via cedarridgeranch.com
