Photographing Horses in the Snow at Vista Verde Guest Ranch in Colorado

This winter I had the chance to check something big off my 2025 photography bucket list… photographing horses in the snow. My husband Ed and I took a special trip to Vista Verde Guest Ranch, just north of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, to celebrate our 18th wedding anniversary. It was everything I hoped for and more.

We stayed in the Saddle Cabin, a cozy retreat named after nearby Saddle Mountain. The entire ranch was blanketed in snow, and it created the most peaceful, postcard-perfect backdrop. Vista Verde is tucked away in the Elk River Valley and offers a luxury guest ranch experience that still feels rooted in tradition. It was the perfect place for us to unplug, recharge, and enjoy some time in the mountains.

And yes, I brought my camera.

On our last full day at the ranch, snow fell steadily from morning to night. I woke up before sunrise, bundled up, and headed out to the pasture to photograph the ranch’s large herd of horses as the snow came down in big, fluffy flakes. Watching them move through the falling snow while the rest of the ranch slept was one of the most peaceful moments I’ve experienced behind the camera. It was truly a dream come true for a horse photographer who lives most of the year in the sunshine of St. Augustine, Florida.

Beyond the photography, we fully leaned into the guest ranch experience. I rode horses every day, joined a few riding clinics, and even convinced Ed to saddle up with me for a winter trail ride through the snow-covered trees.

We also had a blast trying out other winter activities. We went snow tubing, did a little ice fishing, and spent time just relaxing. One afternoon we drove into Steamboat Springs to explore the local shops and art galleries, which was a great way to see more of the area. Every evening ended with happy hour and delicious meals back at the lodge, where the staff made every guest feel like celebrities.

Vista Verde Ranch has a fascinating history and deep connection to the land. The ranch sits on territory originally cared for by the Ute Indians, and over time it has grown into a place where Western adventure and hospitality come together in the best possible way. You can feel the respect they have for the land and the traditions that shaped it.

As an equine photographer who specializes in horse and rider portraits, I’m always looking for inspiration in new places. This trip gave me that and more. If you’re a horse lover who dreams of snowy rides, stunning views, and a slower pace, Vista Verde Ranch might be your kind of place.

To learn more about my work or to see what it's like to work with me for your own custom equine photography session, visit FastHorsePhotography.com.

Cara Taylor Swift
Fast Horse Photography
Equine and horse photography in St. Augustine, Elkton, and throughout Northeast Florida
Traveling photographer for equestrian and ranch experiences across the United States