Concho Hills Guest Ranch

01/04/2026

Cowboys and people interested in the old west often forget about the work horse of the west...the Ox! From pulling ore wagons from Magdalena to Socorro (before the railroad) or ore carts to the ball mill in Chloride NM, the ox was the bovine power for heavy loads.

The first pair of ox shoes I ever saw was at the Pioneer Store and Museum in Chloride, NM. It is a shame that I have watched so many people walk by them without even recognizing what they are. If you think shoeing a horse is hard, imagine shoeing an ox. And of course there were the yokes that the oxen needed.

We really enjoy taking our guest to Chloride, New Mexico to see the Pioneer Store and Museum. It is a perfect example of what a Mercantile store was in the west and how important it was to the community. If you get a chance to go, tell Linda we said hello and take the time to see all of the tools and necessities to "get along" in the west.

Gordon died peacefully at home, January 2nd, 2020, aged 90.Gordon Lohnes owned & worked with oxen for more than 70 years in his native Lunenburg County, Nova...

01/03/2026

We experienced an unusual fog, setting full moon, and beautiful sunrise this morning.

When the fog hangs low like this on the plains it is easier to imagine what it looked like when the plains used to be a freshwater lake. My neighbor's "hills" used to be islands.

A good start for a cool winter's day.

01/03/2026

A really good video about what I have found to be true amongst the ranchers and working cowboys. A good story about the bond between brothers as well.

This short film, presented by Desert Door and Ocotillo Films, introduces audiences to Timo & Miguel Rodriguez–two brothers, true cowboys.

12/27/2025

Best of The West 2026, True West Magazine

Every year True West Magazine publishes the Best of the West issue. This time, they issued a Special Collectors edition of True West Magazine for Jan-Feb, 2026.

Concho Hills is humbled and grateful to the editors for selecting us as their Best of the West for 2026 "Best Heritage Guest Ranch."

If you like our western heritage, then I suggest you go to their website or page and see the terrific subjects of their magazine. This Collector's Edition offers a look at the Best of the West from art, to the best western town to sleep in.

Thank you True West Magazine for selecting us as 2026 "Best Heritage Guest Ranch."

12/26/2025

I was once told "look for something to appreciate in most all things...especially if you can't do it."

Well I can't ride like these ladies or even sew to make their "Adelita" dress! This event is called Escaramuza Charra. I thought the overhead camera angle gave such a different perspective upon the precision of these riders. Everything is at a lope and "side saddle."

I think most can appreciate it.

Ame sus vestidos, hermosas joyas artesanales de Chiapas. a

12/22/2025

Generally, today...winter solstice, is my favorite day. That means that from now, in the northern hemisphere, the hours of daylight each day will be getting longer. The daylight hours will increase slowly each day. By January 1st we will have gained 2 minutes.

That means more time to ride!

12/13/2025

ROB THE BANK!

We will be raising our rates in 2026!

So here is the deal. If you plan your vacation and confirm your reservations Before December 31, 2025; you can book your 2026 stay at this years prices of $400/night per person. And that is our all inclusive rate including: our safety orientation, Intro to New Mexico Vaquero Horsemanship Clinic, one’s lodging, meals, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, all horseback riding, ranch activities and historical tours. So save yourself some cash, plan ahead and book now!

For return guests, our Ride for the Brand special will also be applied to this.

Come rob the bank! Come learn to ride (or improve your riding), have a romantic interlude (bring your own partner), or just enjoy the southwest. Beginning January 1, 2026, our rates will be $450/night per person.

12/13/2025

Marilyn took this photograph in our driveway yesterday.

With hunting season over, these guys don't seem to be too skittish. It is great to see them again.

12/06/2025

Bull Elk!

While we were working in the arena, our guests captured this photograph of a bull elk trying to find a way over our fence. An unusual shot for this time of day.

Some of the smart phone cameras are outperforming "professional" SLRs. Especially if you don't have your SLR with you! 🤠

12/04/2025

Well it is time for that feeling of sadness again as our guests' stay with us comes to an end.

We really enjoyed the conversations and experiences of these "citizens of the world." New and exciting perspectives and, of course, we enjoyed sharing our western heritage with them.

We hope they come and see us again. Until then: Adios and may you always ride with loose reins, your heels down, and your head to the heavens.