ponderosa ranch

This is exactly as it's advertised. It is very remote, about 7 miles on gravel and the road ends at the ranch. Pulling up, I was very nervous, wondering what we got ourselves into. The cabin was not much to look at. As soon as I walked in, though, my mind was set at ease. It has nice, comfortable beds; a nice, small kitchen; and a good-sized, modern bathroom. The small kids' room with 2 sets of bunk beds even had a small refrigerator. The scenery is so beautiful. We also rode horses on the ranch and I've never been around such great horses. They responded easily and were very calm. The Lund family was very warm and friendly. The young girl they had helping with the rides was also very friendly and knowledgeable. I learned so much about horses on my time at the ranch from people you could tell really cared and loved horses. If we're in the area again, I would definitely try to stay here again.

If you're seeking peace, Ponderosa Ranch is your perfect destination. The Lund Family's land is absolutely stunning, and they are extremely gracious hosts. Whether you're a hunter, equestrian, or a railfan, the ranch offers experiences for everyone. The cabin is a simple, no frills accommodation. Clean and tidy, but simple. But that's the point. Nebraska is the good life, and in this beautiful land, with these kind people...that's what you'll find. It's a truly spiritual experience.

I stayed here while on a railfanning vacation as I wanted to get some photos of trains on Crawford Hill. As a City dweller who normally frequents hotels, I went with some trepidation. But I had a great couple of days there. The cabin I used was pretty remote – over a mile from the main ranch house – and fairly basic – more beds than seats. But it had all that I really needed, including a good hot shower and air conditioning. Sitting on the terrace with views of the surrounding hills and wildlife was peaceful and restful, and a change from sitting in front of a TV or computer screen. Kim was a very friendly host and provided a lovely breakfast and evening meal. The walk to and from the tracks was quite arduous for someone of more mature years, especially on a hot day, but it was good exercise and the views of trains struggling up the Hill made it thoroughly worthwhile.

My husband and myself just spent 2 couple of nights on the ranch and were very pleased with our stay. The Lund family made us very welcome and made sure we had a great time. Very relaxing, beautiful natural surroundings, a must for anyone wanting to spend time on a ranch with a very reasonable price. Thank you for opening your home to us.

Quality family, quality horses, quality meals.....our family just had the vacation they will not forget. We had meals with the family (very fun and tasty), went out on horseback to a highpoint for a view of the Nebraska countryside, had lunch brought to us on a 4-wheeler. The kids fed the calves and sheep, fell in love with the dog Charlie, gathered eggs. It is truly a trip to be remembered. Kim and Jeff are honest, kind-hearted and loving people.

We took 2 absolutely stunning rides through the pines and foothills. Pictures don't do it justice. We also spent time at the local historic fort. Hayrides, rodeo and tours. A fun way to learn. The prices were reasonable and food was great. I highly recommend it. We spent 3 days and I wish I could have been there longer.

I have been to the Pondrosa 3 times. A fantastic experience for a railroad fan.. many, many great angles to shoot from. Sitting on the cabins porch at night one see thousands of stars and hear the yipping of the coyotes in the distanbce. The Lunds are great hosts, you will not be dissapointed in your visit...

My wife and I visited the ranch in May 2010 for 4 days. On arrival we were warmly welcomed by Kim and Jeff. After a brief greeting we were shown our cabin, got to unpack, set up "shop" and then were at the home for lunch were we met Trevor and Kattie both very pleasant children. The ranch is a working ranch and a chance to experience real cowboy life. This is NOT a dude ranch. You can do whatever you are comfortable at doing; riding horses, branding, assisting with ranch chores, caring for the animals or nothing. Jeff and Kim are there for you! Even when the weather was not accommodating to riding we went out on 4-wheelers!Jeff is a willing teacher training on knot tying and showing the "ropes". The experience is wonderful. Meals are served (good home cooked meals) and you eat with the family and become a "family" member. Accommodations are more than can be expected for a small facility. My wife and I became friends with the Lunds, it was easy. We would do it again without hesitation. If you are cowboy want-a-bees this is the place. Beautiful country.

I have been to the Ponderosa Ranch several times and will return again. I have stayed up at the farmhouse on the hill as well as the guest cabin at the Lund's home. I have gone with friends as well as having been there during a big motorcycle trip. Love it there. Rumor has it if you are a hunter, this is a great place to stay during several hunting seasons. As a Railroad Enthusiast, America has no other place that offers such a great experience. The famous Crawford Hill railroad grade of the BNSF Railway is an amazing rail-fan experience and the Lund's are very helpful in getting folks out trackside to beautiful photo spots along the line, without trespassing on RR property!Good meals and hospitality are to be expected.Note: if you come by motorcycle you will not like the road in to the ranch. Long bumpy gravel road, so take it slowly. If you like rural, beautiful backcountry, this place is worth the visit.W. HollowayIron Horse America -Video Media

Thank you!!

I took my daughter to the Ponderosa Ranch for her 16th birthday. We flew into Rapid City, rented a car, stayed two days at the Alex Johnson Hotel (fabulous!), then drove 2 hours south into Nebraska to the Ponderosa Ranch. The Ponderosa Ranch was just wild enough -- just enough adventure -- for a mom and daughter traveling alone together. The owners made us feel welcome. They put safety first, so Mom could relax. The horses were wonderful -- especially Sugar. The cow work was real and all day. There were a variety of things to do. The scenery was beautiful.

super nice family who opens their doors for your vacation. We went for the photography and the area will not disappoint. Liked it so much the first time we went back again. 4 thumbs up!

My husband and I visit Western Nebraska about twice a year -- the Crawford area is a perfect vacation spot, with much to do and see. We never tire of the Western living that one finds in the area. Although we usually stay at nearby Fort Robinson State Park, we always take time to do a horseback ride with the Lunds at Ponderosa Ranch. This is western horseback riding at its best -- one goes out alongside one of the Lunds (not just nose to tail). Guests can ride up to their ability levels -- trot, walk, go up and down hills -- or not -- it is a custom ride and one can do whatever one is comfortable with on horseback. I even got to help round up a bull and drive him back to the barn (well, my horse helped round up the bull and I was privileged to sit atop him and pretend to be a real cowboy).The horseback riding setup offered by the Lunds is the best I have ever seen -- and the all the Lunds are gracious guides and helpful teachers. I go on rides wherever I travel, and no other setup offers the variety of options offered by the Lunds. Their property is drop-dead gorgeous, with many options as to riding destinations. The horses are personable and well trained. The accommodations offered by the Lunds look great -- and I've talked with other guests that were enamored with both the lodging and the food. I would definitely say that one should not miss the horseback riding opportunity offered by the Lunds if you are anywhere within 200 miles of Crawford, Nebraska. Definitely worth seeking out.

Can't say enough wonderful things about Ponderosa Ranch. My husband and I had become so disenchanted with staying at the same-ol' chain hotels, so we decided to book a long weekend in Crawford at a place where we could enjoy the environs without being just another triple digit number on the door. I think its the attention to detail that I'm most appreciative of--fresh linens, books and games, bathroom stocked full of essential toiletries, and a spotless kitchen equipped with cutlery, flatware, pots, pans, gadgets and seasonings--it puts those paltry Comfort Inn hospitality baskets to shame! My husband and I both regret we hadn't the time to join the family for dinners, but have heard from reliable sources that Kim's pancakes are quite legendary. Most importantly, we are so grateful that the Lunds allowed us to tote along our beloved yellow labrador retriever--she had a blast exploring around the cabin. We would certainly go out of our way to stay at Ponderosa Ranch again. :)

Great lodge hidden in a natural oase of pinetrees where the Lund Family lives. We did wonderful Western horseriding with Jeff and Kim makes the best pancakes ever had overseas.