The Black Range Lodge

I have stayed at the Black Range Lodge over ten times the last four years and I have thoroughly enjoyed every visit. I often just want a chance to get away and relax, though that is often a challenge because there are always a number of fascinating guests who tempt me to talk. And then there is Catherine Wanek herself, owner and head wrangler of the lodge and an old friend. Whether it is conversations about her latest book on alternative housing or a recent film shoot(2 years ago I was there during the shoot of "Becoming Eduardo" and found out the lovely Latina that looked so familiar at breakfast was an actress I've seen in over a dozen films. The area is just visually striking,with the rock face of the canyon and Percha creek as you drive in from the east, or the view from Emory peak(a 20 minute drive up from the lodge with a wonderful hiking trail) where you can see down into the Rio Grande river valley for 70 some miles. The history is fascinating(ask about Mark Twain's visit or the "Poet Scout" which Mark, the owner and resident of the original bank building a couple doors down will be glad to tell you about as he shows off an old working printing press. ) and it is hard to imagine the over 8,000 miners, ladies of "ill repute" led by the Madam who was a civic leader who provided for orphans and once rode naked through the in a town that now boasts 20 some residents. I love the rustic comfort of the lodge rooms(each room has its own charm and "personality) and sometimes luxuriate by staying in the beautiful guest house up the hill.(strawbale construction with stunning light in the early morning). The easy-going, healthy and delicious breakfasts provided by Tom with plenty of jokes and sharing with other guests is a great way to start the day. I try to stop down every 3-4 four months. Often there is a musician or two, or an artist, or some guest with a passion for history to share the stay with. I highly recommend The Black Range Lodge and will be returning again in March.It is an experience of warmth, beauty and discovery that keeps drawing me back, with much in the area still to explore. Tom Heady Albuquerque, NM

Spent a night at the Black Range Lodge on a touring trip across NM. Was very pleasantly surprised by the quiet beauty of the area, the comfortable and down to earth atmosphere of the lodge, and it's very friendly owner and staff. I struck up fun and entertaining conversations with others who live in the valley, as well as with the other guests at the inn. I had the best night sleep I've had in many months. It's just that peaceful and relaxing. Very highly recommended.

I stayed here with my sister as one stop on our cross-country bicycle ride. The lodge was very inviting, with the wood stove by the door and the historic feel of the house. The room we stayed in was clean and very comfortable right down to the heated floors in the bathroom. The hosts were also very gracious, and the bread in the morning was to die for! I would highly recommend this spot to anyone.

I was part of a bicycling group that stayed here and it was the highlight of accommodations for our entire 2 month trip. Catherine was so warm and welcoming and the meal that Wendy made was incredible. All 11 of us had comfortable beds/rooms and it was just enjoyable hanging out in the common areas, chatting with all there. Will make this a destination anytime I'm in NM.