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Here are some answers to Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like?
May 15 - June 15
Gets warm during the day while the sun is shining, which it usually is. Approximately 70*F. When the sun goes down and into the night is starts cooling off. It might get down to 40*F in mid-May and down to about 45-50*F in mid-June.
June 15 - July 15
Much warmer in the daytime with the sun still shining it's beautiful face. Possible showers in the afternoon around 2:00 pm and last for almost an hour. Then the sun comes back out. Temperatures get up to about 75-80*F and down to around 50-55*F at night.
July 15 - August 15
The weather is similar to spring in Texas and California (minus the humidity). Maybe 80-85* (can get as warm as 90*F) during the day with possible afternoon shower and down to 55-60*F at night.
August 15 - early September
Starting to cool off just a bit. Some days will still feel like late July here but it could be as cool as 75-80*F. The nights go back down, too. Maybe as low as 45*F in the evenings.
Late September
Here's where it gets tricky... It could stay as warm as mid-August or it could only get up to 75*F. Usually it's warmer than cooler. The nights will be anywhere from 45-55*F.
Please keep in mind we cannot predict the weather extremely accurately. These are guesstimations based on the last ten to fifteen years.
What do I bring to wear?
Check the weather conditions from the above questions. Keep in mind that it may rain during the afternoon or early evening. Jeans are definitely in order. Comfortable shoes or boots for walking or hiking. Boots with a heel is advisable for riding and a cowboy hat to keep the sun off of your face.
Depending on when you come, a light jacket and/or a sweater will keep you warm in the evenings. Shorts during the day for the height of the summer. And don't forget your bathing suit!
What airport is closest to Harmel's Ranch Resort?
Gunnison County Airport is just 30 minutes from the ranch. We will be happy to come pick you up from there. Just give us a call to let us know the date and time you will be arriving. Airport Transfers are included for American Plan and Run of the Ranch guests.
How far is the nearest town or hospital?
To get to Gunnison go seven miles west down Taylor Canyon Road (County Road 742) then south on highway 135 for eleven miles. It takes approximately 30 minutes to get there.
Are there any hiking trails close to the ranch?
There are too many trails for me to list for you. Stop by the store or office and somebody will be able to tell you about the trails on the ranch and the surrounding area.
Do you allow pets at the ranch?
Yes, we believe you should bring the whole family. This includes your pets. We ask that they be well-behaved and leashed while on ranch property. We are surrounded by 1.7 million acres of the Gunnison National Forest. So you can let 'em run naked in the woods! Please see our Pet Friendly page for more information.
Do you have fishing equipment for rent?
Yes, available in the store/fly shop. We have a good variety of sizes of waders, boots, gravel guards, and fly rods (some spin casting rods may be available).
How old does my child need to be in order to ride horses?
Because of insurance reasons, we ask that your child be at least seven years old for trail rides. However; depending on the child, we do allow four, five and six year olds to take a one hour lesson at the stables. This gives them the chance to ride safely under the supervision of our experienced wranglers and gives you great photo opportunities!
Do we really need a car for our stay at Harmel's?
No, you do not. Everything we say we offer is located right here on the ranch. If we pick you up from the airport and you plan on fishing, tell the driver to stop at the sporting goods store so you may buy a Colorado state fishing license.
What day of the week do I need to start my vacation?
Any day of the week is just fine with us!
What plan is best for my family?
This depends on how active you all are and how much you want to think about what is included and what is not included. Please see our Rates page for more information.
Run of the Ranch - the no brainer, all inclusive plan. Horseback rides, Children's Program, Massage, Whitewater Rafting, hay rides, and more! The only thing this does not include is rock climbing. (3 night minimum)
American Plan - all meals included, activities purchased ala carte, Children's Program is included (for kids 4 to 12 years old). Horses not included with this plan. (3 night minimum)
Fisherman's Holiday - breakfast and cookouts (Monday and Thursday nights) included, activities purchased ala carte. Horses not included with this plan. (3 night minimum)
Are all of your trail rides "nose to tail"?
For the most part, yes. This is largely due to the terrain of the mountains. Don't worry, there is plenty of terrific scenery to check out. Advanced rides are, of course, more adventurous. We offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced rides going out daily.
Do you offer discounted rates?
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We do offer discounts for children. Ages 7-13 yrs old get 20% off, ages 4-6 yrs get 30% off, and children 3 and under are FREE. Children's discounts apply to American Plan and Run of the Ranch only.
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We give an extra 15% off for off-season reservations. Off-season dates are May 15 through June 11 and again August 14 through September 30.
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There is also a discount for weekly stays (seven nights or more). 5% off for Fisherman's Holiday and American Plan guests. And 10% off for Run of the Ranch guests.
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Sorry, we do not offer group discounts.
Why do you offer off-season rates?
This is largely due to the cool night weather. We cannot guarantee there will be overnight rides, hay rides, or cookouts at the chuckwagon grounds. This is to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Generally we close the outdoor swimming pool in early to mid-September.
Do I need a Colorado fishing license to fish Harmel's private waters?
Yes, you do. However, we do not sell them in our store. You will need to stop by a sporting goods store to pick one up. If we pick you up from the airport and plan on fishing, please let the driver know you need to purchase your Colorado fishing license. Harmel's will supply you with a Private Fishing Permit to fish our mile of the Taylor River.
How long does it take to get to Harmel's from Denver or Colorado Springs?
Approximately 3 to 3 1/2 hours from either airport. Cottonwood Pass is a bit of a shortcut if you don't mind unpaved mountain roads. Monarch Pass will take you through Gunnison if you prefer a mellower, paved drive. This is the best way if you need to stop by Wal-Mart before coming to the ranch. Please see our How To Get Here page for more information.
When is check-in and check-out time?
Check-in time is after 2:00pm. Check-out time is before 10:00am.
What is the elevation at Harmel's?
We are at 8,412' in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
What is your guest capacity?
We have 37 different cabins with the ability to sleep 150 guests comfortably. This does not include our hide-a-ways, roll-a-ways, or cribs.
Are there laundry facilities on the ranch?
Yes, it is located just down from our restaurant in the main strip. Open 24 hours a day. There's laundry soap provided. You may obtain quarters and fabric softener in our sundry store by the office.
What type of flies should I bring?
You really don't need to go out to buy any. We have a great fly shop located in our store. Our guides keep it well stocked and will be able to assist you with exactly what you need to catch those wiley trout. However, if you have some to bring, we have some suggestions. The main stay choices are; stone flies, caddis, and green drakes. We have the common hatches of mayflies during the warmer time of the season.
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