Destination Recap: Vermejo, A Ted Turner Reserve

Tucked away in the wilderness of northern New Mexico and southern Colorado lies one of the most extraordinary properties I’ve ever visited—Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve. Spanning more than 550,000 acres of re-wilded landscapes, Vermejo offers a rare chance to experience nature at its most pristine. This is not just a luxury retreat; it’s a living, breathing conservation success story. With a mission to protect and restore imperiled species and ecosystems, Vermejo invites you to explore wide-open spaces, encounter extraordinary wildlife, and learn from passionate experts who are stewards of this remarkable land.

We visited Vermejo to celebrate a very special milestone—my father-in-law’s 70th birthday—and traveled as a multi-generational group of sixteen ranging in age from 11 months to 70 years. Vermejo offers something rare: the chance to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with each other in a setting that feels both expansive and intimate. Here’s a look back at a week that reminded me of the power of wild places.

First Impression
Arriving at Vermejo feels a bit like arriving at a frontier lodge from a bygone era—rustic, unpretentious, and surrounded by wilderness. For a moment, I wondered if I should have packed a petticoat instead of my jeans and boots. This is remote country, about a 3.5-hour drive from the nearest airport, and not for the faint of heart. But like all spectacular places, it’s well worth the journey. Our group descended on this quiet property and was greeted on the expansive porch of the main lodge—overlooking a lush green lawn complete with games for the kids. We gathered around a long table with boxed lunches and cold beers and wine, soaking in the fresh air. Within minutes of checking in, we spotted deer outside our window. Nature makes itself known here early and often. It set the stage for a great week of discovery and celebration.

Accommodations
Our crew settled into two cozy cottages just steps from the main lodge. Rooms are comfortable and thoughtfully appointed—understated in a way that feels true to place. The shared spaces aren’t designed to impress with trendy decor; they are meant to welcome you home. And while the accommodations were plenty comfortable, we spent most of our time outside.

Activities
Vermejo’s range of activities is where the property really shines. Over the week, we experienced everything from horseback riding and hiking to fly fishing for Rio Grande cutthroat trout (reestablished through Vermejo’s own conservation efforts), biking, kayaking, and stargazing. If I had to pick a standout highlight, it would be a sunrise wildlife expedition via ATV. We saw herds of elk and bison, two black bears, pronghorn, coyotes, and a red-tailed hawk. Taking it all in under the early morning light, with a hot cup of coffee and my family snuggled in next to me—it was one of those experiences that stays with you. Nature isn’t just scenery here; it’s the star of the show.

Food
Dining at Vermejo reflected the land—local and delicious. Breakfasts featured fresh pastries, eggs made to order, and strong coffee. Lunches rotated between bison burgers, fresh salads, and artisanal sandwiches. Dinners were elevated with dishes like axis deer, elk steak, wild salmon, and my personal favorite: bison tenderloin (so good, I ordered it twice). On Friday, the culinary team pulled off a spectacular lakeside fish fry, complete with roasted vegetables, peach-and-mint salad, blue corn fried trout and of course, more bison tenderloin. The kids fished, threw axes (supervised!), and played cornhole while we toasted the end of the week.

Service
Vermejo is less like going to a resort and more like being invited into someone’s home. Everyone from the front desk to the guides calls you by name. Gluten-free muffins appeared each morning for those with dietary restrictions. William, the head bartender, quickly learned our drink orders and had them ready upon our arrival at the lodge. Mason, one of our activity guides, became our kids’ new best friend—sharing countless wildlife facts and leading us on adventures with infectious enthusiasm. His wife, Alex, and her colleague Bella showed incredible patience while teaching our youngest travelers about the horses. The culinary team created a beautiful cake on my father-in-law’s birthday. The staff doesn’t just care for you—they connect.

The Wow Factor
Vermejo itself—its sheer scale, its untouched beauty—is humbling. From stunning vistas to rolling grasslands and crystal-clear lakes, the land stirs something in you. But what makes this place unforgettable is how it blends that natural splendor with a deeply human touch. The commitment to conservation is woven into everything. The pace is relaxed. The hospitality is personal. Nothing feels contrived—just warm and full of heart. And knowing that every sunrise sighting or lakeside hike is part of a greater effort to restore and protect this ecosystem only deepens the impact of being there. Vermejo is the kind of place that calls you back. The land is what brings you here, but it’s the people—their care, their purpose, their kindness—that make you want to return again and again.

Looking for the perfect place to celebrate with the ones you love? We can help! Multi-generational getaways are some of our favorite journeys to design. Reach out to start planning something truly special for your crew.