Piney River Ranch, a getaway into the backcountry for visitors to Vail, Colorado

When you’ve come to the Colorado high country but still want to get away from it all, take a drive to Piney River Ranch near Vail, Colorado . There’s horseback riding, canoeing and kayaking, hiking and horseshoes. The restaurant is open from 11 to 3pm in good weather. Sample menu includes beef brisket, pulled pork, burgers, chicken sandwich, ribs, and veggie burgers. This is hearty fare and delicious after a morning of activity. The views are stunning and surround you with a backdrop of the Gore Range that is very “up close.”