The Nature Place Lodge has hosted innumerous business conferences, family reunions, and leadership development programs through the years since opening in 1978. An original structure to the property, the Lodge’s charm remains as the social center for our guests. We’ve been fortunate to maintain the Lodge with modern renovations and grow with the desires of our visitors; all the while keeping the serenity of surrounding pine forests the focal point of a stay at The Nature Place.

Upstairs, entering from the west, a sunny open-space corridor welcomes guests into a cozy seating area across from our front desk and main office. Windows lining the south and easterly views of the ranch property, allow guests quick views of their lodging accommodations, or a long look through the foothills towards Pikes Peak. The space surrounding the welcome area often serves as a reception or ‘happy hour’ station for groups from 10 to 50 people. Guests choose an arrangement to entertain themselves while taking in good company and mountain merriment.

The upper level then transitions into our main dining area from the southside reception space. Here we host our buffet line, packed lunch stations, and breakfast bar. Central to the Lodge layout, our food and sharing meals together is an essential portion of a guest stay at The Nature Place. Our kitchen staff prides itself on wholesome, nutritious meals to energize and satiate an appetite for a visit to the mountains. 

While guests choose from the buffet line, the eastern entry and exit of the Pike’s Peak deck offers some of the best views on the Colorado Outdoor Education Center property. A highlight for the 2022 season is the renovation of the Pike’s Peak deck, which adds an additional 125 square feet from our previous space. Guests often find themselves gravitating toward the majestic scenery of a sunrise, midday snack among woodland creatures, or a colorful sunset to enjoy a memorable meal outdoors together.