C Lazy U offers supervised children’s and teens programs that give kids an adventure-filled experience while parents enjoy well-earned adult time. All programs are led by experienced, caring counselors who are certified in First Aid, CPR, and basic water safety — so you can relax knowing your children are in great hands. All programs are included in your stay.
Programs at a Glance:
Summer Children’s Program (ages 3–12)
Summer Teen Program (ages 13–17)
Christmas & New Year’s Program (ages 3–17)
Little Ranch Hands* (ages 3–5)
*Sign up required
Summer Children’s Program
Available: Memorial Day Weekend, mid-June through mid-August, Labor Day Weekend
Ages: 3–12 (ages 3–17 during Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends) (No signup required)
The Summer Children’s Program has been a C Lazy U tradition since the early 1950s, founded by Marion “Mare” Palmer with a simple mission: connect kids with the great outdoors and give parents guilt-free adult time. Under the guidance of our experienced staff, children explore the great outdoors, take part in interactive and educational activities, and make lasting memories. From fishing and hayrides to Kids’ Carnival, Talent Show, Capture the Flag, cookouts, and more—there’s never a dull moment.
Summer Children’s Program Brochure
Summer Teen Program
Available: Summer Family Weeks (mid-June through mid-August)
Ages: 13–17 (Signup to individual tracks is required)
New for 2026, teenagers will enjoy a week of non-stop adventure and real connection. From horseback riding to off-ranch excursions and outdoor fun, there is always something new to explore. It is all about building teens’ confidence, making friends, and creating epic ranch memories.
On ranch, teen will get hands-on experience with natural horsemanship and instructional horseback riding. Out of the saddle they will climb the ropes course, fly along the zip line, and test their skills at the activities course with BB guns, archery, and hatchets. Teens will head out on supervised trips like whitewater rafting, mini golfing in Grand Lake, and visiting a local rodeo. In the evenings, they’ll enjoy gourmet dinners on the lodge deck away from the younger kids before jumping into an exciting night activity. They will even get the chance to walk into the pasture to meet our magnificent herd of 200+ horses, then wrap up the day around a campfire where they’ll laugh, swap stories and hang out under the stars.
Teens may choose from three program tracks:
Adventure On
Ideal for beginner and advanced beginning riders, this program is a mix of riding, outdoor fun, and Colorado adventures — perfect for teens who want it all. Instructional rides progress through the week, with round pen and grooming clinics to build confidence and connection with their horse. By the end of the week, novice riders will be trotting and loping with confidence!
Avid Cowboy & Cowgirl Experience
Designed for experienced teen riders who truly love horses — those who ride regularly or have spent several years at C Lazy U. Riders in this group should have a secure, balanced seat, be comfortable posting and sitting the trot, and be able to lope safely on flat terrain. They should also understand rein types and use their aids in a coordinated way.
A lope assessment is required on Tuesday morning. Teens who may need a little more time to develop their skills will be warmly welcomed into the Adventure On program for additional instruction on trail rides.
I’m Actually An Adult
Teens 16 and older can skip the teen program entirely and join the adult riding program, family activities, and adult dinners — perfect for those who want to spend time with older siblings or family members. Teens choosing this option will follow the adult riding schedule. Sign-up for all activities, including any non-riding teen activities, is still required.
Christmas & New Year’s Children’s Program
Available: Christmas Week; New Year’s Week
Ages: 3–17 (No signup required)
A festive twist on our beloved summer program, the Christmas & New Year’s Children’s Program brings the magic of the season to the ranch. Kids and teens enjoy age-appropriate winter adventures — from snow tubing and ice skating to pony rides, arts & crafts, story time, and more — while families ride horses together. From snowy outdoor fun to cozy evenings by the fire, it’s a holiday experience the whole family will remember.
Holiday Children’s Program Brochure
Little Ranch Hands
Available: September through April
Ages: 3–17 (Advanced signup required)
Designed for our youngest guests ages 3–5 who aren’t yet old enough to ride horses on the trail, Little Ranch Hands runs September through April with small group sizes for personalized attention. Little ones enjoy pony rides, donkey cart rides, nature walks, arts & crafts, scavenger hunts, pond fishing, cookie decorating, and more — a full introduction to the magic of ranch life while you relax knowing they’re in capable, caring hands.
About Our Counselors
All counselors are certified in First Aid, CPR, and basic water safety, and pass thorough background checks before joining our team. They’re handpicked for their passion for working with kids and their experience with horses—so you can relax knowing your children are in great hands.
For more information, please visit the Children & Teens page on our website or stop by the Outfitter’s Cabin.