Perfectly located along the scenic Highway 550 corridor, Bear’s Ranch sits between historic downtown Durango and Purgatory Resort in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Just minutes to the south, visitors can explore Durango and ride the world-famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, while a short drive north leads to year-round adventure at Purgatory Resort.

Highway 550 North is part of the legendary San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, often called the “Million Dollar Highway.” The route begins in Durango, travels through the historic mining town of Silverton, and continues to Ouray—frequently called the “Switzerland of America” for its dramatic alpine peaks, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

Bears Ranch is open for old fashioned sleigh rides in the Winter and horseback trail rides in the Summer.

Bear’s Ranch is family-owned and operated by the Tomlinson and GreyEyes families.

For over three decades, the Tomlinsons built and operated Home of the Brave Hawaii, a one-of-a-kind destination honored as an “American Treasure” and known as “Honolulu’s best-kept secret.” The project welcomed more than 100,000 WWII veterans and over 1 million visitors to its award-winning tours, military museum, Brewseum, and tiki bar, the Wiki Waki Woo.

The Tomlinson Corporation has long pioneered unique, award-winning experiences in the hospitality industry, and that tradition continues at Bear’s Ranch—where history, hospitality, and the breathtaking landscapes of Southwest Colorado come together.

Emmy and Shawn GreyEyes have been part of the Durango community for more than a decade. Their deep love for the San Juan Mountains and western culture is woven into everything they do, and it is their greatest joy to share these special landscapes with visitors. Their passion for mules—often affectionately called “long ears”—began while working with Ben Breed at Buck’s Livery, and during the summer months you’ll often find them dreaming up new ways to grow the herd and expand the ranch experience.

While working with Ben Breed at Buck’s Livery, their love of mules—affectionately known as “long ears”—truly flourished. If you visit Bear’s Ranch during the summer months, you’ll likely find them dreaming up new ways to add a few more long ears to the herd.

At Bear’s Ranch, the Tomlinson and GreyEyes families welcome guests with a warm Hawaiian “Aloha” followed by a classic western “Howdy.” Here, you’re not just a visitor—you’re family.

Area History