Vermejo

Vermejo is a luxury nature lodge located on over 550,000 acres of restored wilderness in Northern New Mexico and Southern Colorado. The ranch, which is larger than many national parks, includes snowcapped mountains, deserts, 19 fishable lakes, and 30 miles of streams. There is a wild variety of wildlife on the property including elk, bison, black bears, and mountain lion. Guests can explore it all on foot, bike, or on horseback. Other outdoor activities including shooting, fishing, and guided tours are available. Vermejo is operated by Ted Turner Reserves, and when Ted Turner purchased Vermejo Ranch in 1996, his goal was to restore and preserve the native ecosystems. As part of that, he reintroduced American bison and has taken steps to grow the population of the rare Rio Grande cutthroat trout.

The lodge itself has a range of accommodations. Casa Grande is a 25,000-square-foot luxury mansion from the early 1900s located near the ranch headquarters. At a higher elevation, the Costilla Fishing Lodge, which is certified LEED silver, is a large solar-powered timber cabin designed for wilderness excursions. The lodge’s porch and many decks offer incredible views across the landscape to watch the sunset.