Mercy Trails Ranch

What does your program involve?

Summer of 2009 marks the start of our first official Session Days! 

The Ranch will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 pm to 5:30 pm for 1 1/2 hour sessions.  Sessions consist of various activities ranging from basic to intermediate riding lessons, horsemanship classes, calf care, milking the cow, gathering eggs, vegetable gardening, feeding the horses and other farm and ranch chores.  On inclement weather days, we will do crafts and play games.  

Not all activities will be available at every session.  

 All sessions are by appointment only at this time.  

Group and family sessions are occasionally available- please call for availability.

All programs and projects incorporate lessons such as trust, faithfulness, leadership, endurance, reliability, compassion and love.

Please note that sessions at the Ranch are about interacting with the horses and other Ranch animals and experiencing what the Ranch has to offer. If you are only looking to increase your riding skills you may be better served by making an appointment at a traditional riding stables.

How can I get my child involved?

E-mail Mercy Trails Ranch at sjgwin@msn.com or call 303-552-8056 to schedule an appointment. 

We are open year round, although the weather limits the program through the winter months.

Can I send my child to the Ranch without me?

While it may be offered in certain circumstances for you to drop your child off at Mercy Trails Ranch, we recommend that parents attend as well.  Parents play a vital role in the healing process for any child and we would not want you to miss your opportunity to cheer your child to victories over the struggles in their young life. There are also opportunities for whole families to be ministered to as well.

What do I need to bring with me and my child to the Ranch?

All riders must wear long pants and closed toed shoes.  We highly recommend cowboy boots or boots with a heel and slick toe.

However, we have been blessed by several pairs of boots that can be provided for those who need it.  Ask for sizes available.

We also highly recommend sunscreen and bug spray, as well as a water bottle and hat.  Due to abrupt changes in the weather that are common in Colorado year round, you may find it appropriate to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket.

Helmets will be provided and are required for anyone under the age of 18.

Please bring a completed Riding Waiver for each person attending the Ranch.  You may find the link here.

 Who qualifies to come to Mercy Trails Ranch?

No one will be turned away from the opportunities that Mercy Trails Ranch can offer.  While we talk much of the struggling and troubled children that have attended, any child from 1-99 is welcome.  We only ask that each child have an open heart and want to attend!

 What does it cost to attend?

Sessions are $10 per child per session.  Scholarships are available upon request.  Donations are always welcome.

The cost to run the ranch, keep the horses happy and healthy, and provide for the families and children who come, requires a suggested minimum donation of $50 per day with no meals provided and $110 per day with meals provided. 

This amount is based on a family of 6.  Please contact us for the group suggested donation rate for your situation .   

 Can I visit Mercy Trails Ranch?

We would love to have you.  E-mail us at sjgwin@msn.com or call 303-552-8056 to make an appointment for a tour.

 Can I stay overnight at Mercy Trails Ranch?

Not at this time. We are truly blessed with 2 full time volunteers for the summer of 2009.  The bunkhouse will be their home away from home for May through July.

God has blessed Mercy Trails Ranch with a 1 bed/1bath bunkhouse.  The bedroom is equipped with a queen bed and 4 bunks.  The kitchen is fully equipped for your stay.  The bunkhouse is available by appointment only.  E-mail us at sjgwin@msn.com to schedule your stay after summer of 2009. 

Children that wish to stay overnight must be accompanied by their parent, legal guardian, or an adult with special written permission from parent or guardian.

Can I volunteer at Mercy Trails Ranch?

YES!  We are always in need of volunteers!  We are also seeking motivated Christian young adults who would consider volunteering for 2-3 months in the summer months.  If this is something that you would be interested in, please call for details.  At this time, we cannot take volunteer families at the same time that ministry clients are here due to lack of staff and housing.  Church work groups, men’s and women’s Bible Studies and youth groups are always welcome and needed to complete various projects on the property.

 Is Mercy Trails Ranch a religious organization?

No.  Mercy Trails Ranch is a faith based program.  Mercy Trails Ranch is not affiliated with any religious group or organization.  It is our greatest desire to show others our faith through what we do on the ranch and our love for Jesus Christ.

How much does it actually cost Mercy Trails Ranch to host a child?

There are some real operating costs to run a ranch of this size.  It costs approximately $250/day in total overhead costs for a person to come.  To remain low cost or free to our clients, we are always seeking people who would partner together to sponsor a person to the ranch.  If you are interested in sponsoring a child in full or in part, please click the Paypal button on the home page to donate.  Your donation is tax deductible.