Hiking at the Paintrock
At Paintrock Canyon Ranch, hiking offers a different way to experience the landscape than on horseback.
During Ranch Vacations, guided hikes are offered as scheduled afternoon activities. Each route highlights a different part of the ranch.
Courthouse Rock
This two-hour guided hike begins on relatively flat ground before climbing gradually for about 30 minutes through juniper forest. Along the way, guests can stop to view ancient pictographs on the rock walls, a reminder of the long history of people in this canyon.
The trail opens onto a sweeping grassland with panoramic views across the ranch and toward the Red Hills. At the top, your guide shares packed snacks before heading back down.
Fitness level: Low to intermediate. The uphill section is steady but manageable.
Paintrock Canyon
This hike follows the Paintrock Creek deeper into the canyon — the same path our cattle travel as they move between pastures and up toward summer grazing in the Bighorn Mountains.
The trail is primarily flat with a few short inclines. Guests walk as far as they’d like, with the distance tailored to the group’s comfort and interest. The farther you travel, the more the canyon opens around you.
Along the way, guides talk through the flora and fauna of the canyon and how this landscape functions as part of a working ranch.
Snacks are not packed for this hike, but appetizers are served back at camp afterward.
Fitness level: Low to intermediate, adaptable to the group.
When Hiking is Offered
During Ranch Vacations:
Guided hikes are offered in the afternoon. One hike per week heads toward Courthouse Rock; another heads up Paintrock Canyon for guests who choose not to participate in guided fly fishing.
During Workshops:
Some workshop weeks include guided hikes, depending on the itinerary developed with the Workshop Leader. Details are outlined on each specific event page.
Self-Guided Exploration
Guests are welcome to explore the ranch on foot during free time or in place of a scheduled activity. We’ll orient you to appropriate routes and boundaries before you set out.
We do not offer guided birdwatching, but binoculars are available to check out for either guided hikes or independent exploration.
Questions?
If you have questions about hiking or other activities available during your stay, our reservations team is happy to walk you through what to expect. You can reach us at stay@ranchlands.com or 719-641-2089.
