The year was 1947.
Nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak on the northwest side of Colorado Springs sat a 1400-acre working cattle ranch, where black Angus cows roamed and quarter horses were raised. Don Wilson owned the ranch and his daughter and son-in-law, Marian and Russ Wolfe, helped work the ranch while enjoying all the beauty the surrounding Rockies had to offer. Russ and Marian dreamed of sharing the ranch in all its glory, so they set their sights on exactly how to do it.
Periodically, visitors would come to the ranch for horseback rides led by Russ. Every now and then, Marian would invite the guests to stay the evening for a potluck. After all, what better way to end a day of gallivanting through the rambling countryside than with a warm, home-cooked meal around the campfire, under the stars? Russ and Marian enjoyed hosting these outings and meals so much that they had a mind to make an event out of them.
And So…
In 1953, with 11 paying guests at $3 apiece, the Flying W Ranch Chuckwagon Supper was officially born. Over the course of their first summer serving chuckwagon suppers, Russ and Marion were open two nights a week and served 1,650 people. Demand grew and by 1963, Russ and Marian were open seven days a week and serving more than 125,000 people annually.
Since Russ and Marian first began their operation, Flying W Ranch has stolen the hearts of millions and to this day is one of Colorado’s most famous attractions. Under the watchful eye of third-generation ranch owner Leigh Ann Wolf, the legendary ranch and its attractions have grown and thrived. The Flying W now serves its traditional supper to more than 600 people a night, six nights a week.
Arrive Early
From 5 pm-6:30 pm, guests can explore the property, visit ranch animals, ride the train through Christmas Rock Train Tunnel, watch dance performances, view horseshoeing demonstrations, visit the gift shops and even participate in axe throwing and archery.
Supper is served at 6:30 pm sharp and is followed by a knockout performance by the world-famous Flying W Wranglers, which claims to be the second-oldest western singing band in the world.
Flying W Ranch continues to keep the old West alive. Visit the website for tickets and a chance to experience Flying W in all its glory.
Website: https://www.flyingw.com/
Facebook + Instagram: @flyingwchuckwagon
