In Colorado, the Family That Plays Together Saves Together Family-Friendly Summer Packages and Deals Start at Just $58 Per Person, Per Night

Colorado offers a wide variety of summer travel deals for families that crave a little bit of adventure in their vacations. From authentic dude ranches to luxury hotels, Colorado's family friendly packages combine a diverse selection of accommodations with activities such as horseback riding, fishing, mountain biking, rafting, hiking and more. The following is a selection of special summer packages offered throughout Colorado.

The Inn at Lost Creek in Telluride is offering a family fun package from June 15 through September 15, which includes two nights' accommodations with a choice of horseback riding or an ATV tour. Package rates start at $92 per person, per night, with a two night minimum stay. (888-601-5678; www.innatlostcreek.com)

Families can "learn the ropes" with real life cowboys enjoy life on an authentic dude ranch at the Summit School Riding Ranch in Gateway Canyons, Colorado. The ranch's family package includes a four night deluxe accommodations, horseback riding lessons, three gourmet cowboy lunches and dinners. Rates start at $1,286 (double occupancy) plus $200 per child. Package is available from May 1-October 15. (866-671-4733; http://www.gatewaycanyons.com/)

With hundreds of miles of scenic waterways, Gunnison-Crested Butte is a river rafting paradise. The area offers a family rafting package starting at just $58 per person, per night, for a family of four (two adults and two children ages 12 and under) from June 15 through August 31. The package includes two nights in a two-bedroom condominium in Mt. Crested Butte and a half-day raft trip on the Gunnison River. Price is based on quad occupancy, does not include tax and is subject to availability. (800-814-8893; http://www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com/)

Take in a breathtaking overnight scenic tour from Denver to Glenwood Springs, Colorado aboard Amtrak. Available now through October 31, families can enjoy Amtrak train transportation from Denver to Glenwood Springs, two nights' accommodations at Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs, a one-day Hot Springs Pool pass, hotel transfers, and daily breakfast. Rates start at $162 per person, per night, double occupancy. (800-841-9800; http://www.rmatours.com/)

The Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs offers a Fourth of July package that includes four nights' accommodations and a horseback trail ride, bicycle and paddleboat rental, and a 50% discount at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. The hotel also hosts a spectacular fireworks display on Independence Day. Rates start at $189 per person, per night with a four night minimum stay. Children 10 and under stay and eat free with paying adult. The package is available July 1-8. (866-837-9250; http://www.broadmoor.com/)

From June 15 through August 31, families can enjoy horseback riding through the wildflowers and mountain streams at The Grande Lodge in Crested Butte. The package includes two nights' accommodations and horseback riding tours for two adults and two children under 12, starting at just $484. (888-264-5566; http://www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com/)

The Three Rivers Resort in Almont, Colorado is home to the Orvis Fly Fishing School in the beautiful setting of Gunnison National Park. A special family package includes accommodations at the Three Rivers Resort, fishing school activities (June 14-15 only), equipment and lunches. Rates start at $513 per person, per night with a minimum of a three-night stay. (888-761-3474; http://www.3riversresort.com/)

There is nothing quite like a guided hike through the majestic Rocky Mountains to awaken the senses, revitalize the spirit and build long lasting family memories. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, families can enjoy a 2-for-1 guided Rocky Mountain hiking package. With the discount, the rate is $60 per two persons and includes transportation, refreshments, sunscreen, backpacks, and digital photos. (303-455-4688; http://www.getoutcolorado.com/)

For complete information on planning your vacation to Colorado, including lodging, attractions and activities, logon to www.colorado.com or call 800-COLORADO for a free official state vacation guide.

**