Photos courtesy of Cherry Creek Lodge
Tucked away in the heart of the Tonto National Forest, Cherry Creek Lodge offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and rustic luxury. This secluded retreat, situated on the historic Tewksbury homestead, is more than just a getaway—it’s a step back in time to the days of the Old West.
Owners Mike and Sharon Lechter fell in love with the land long before they opened the lodge to the public in 2008. They were captivated not only by its stunning natural beauty but also by its rich history. The ranch was a key site in the infamous Pleasant Valley War, a bloody range war in the 1880s that has inspired countless books and films.
Today, Cherry Creek Lodge stands as a testament to that history while offering modern comforts and a wide array of activities. Nestled among 40,000-plus acres of the Tonto National Forest, the lodge provides access to hundreds of miles of trails through diverse terrains—from towering Ponderosa pines to vast desert landscapes. The Tonto National Forest is the fifth largest forest in the United States and part of the largest continuous tract of Ponderosa pine in the world.
The Lechters have made it their mission to preserve and share the beauty of this land, its history, and the cowboy culture with future generations. They expanded their property in 2005 and 2008, adding land from the Ruger family, of Sturm Ruger fame, and ensuring the lodge remained off the grid with solar power and deep freshwater wells.
Cherry Creek Lodge offers a variety of accommodations, each designed to provide guests with a comfortable and immersive experience. The main lodge features five well-appointed bedrooms, a great room with a vast stone fireplace, and a dining area that has hosted countless memorable meals and celebrations. Additional accommodations include the Rustler’s Roost, Wranglers Rack, and Bunkhouse Suite, each offering unique amenities and proximity to the ranch’s horses and other livestock.
One of the highlights of the lodge is Lake Sharon, a 3-acre lake home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, bass, and bluegill. Guests can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, swimming, paddle boating, hunting, and fishing, or simply relax by the lake with a good book. The lodge also offers a labyrinth for meditation and reflection, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Cherry Creek, a 57-mile tributary of the Salt River, flows throughout the property, providing ample opportunities for creek walking and rock hounding. The ranch is also home to friendly farm animals that guests can interact with, including chickens and horses. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot elk, deer, turkeys, and even the occasional bear or mountain lion.
For those seeking resort-style comforts, the lodge does not disappoint. The spacious wraparound deck offers breathtaking views of Lake Sharon and the surrounding property, while the outdoor campfire and barbecue area provide a perfect setting for evening gatherings. Inside, guests can enjoy a game of pool or relax at the copper and marble bar.
Cherry Creek Lodge is committed to sustainability and self-sufficiency, providing guests with an authentic farm-to-table experience. Meals are prepared with love and many ingredients are sourced directly from the ranch’s gardens and livestock. The lodge’s weekly cowboy cookout, featuring grilled-to-order prime rib, is a guest favorite.
Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous retreat, Cherry Creek Lodge has something for everyone. Guests are treated like family, and the lodge’s staff goes above and beyond to ensure each stay is unique and memorable.
Experience the magic of Cherry Creek Lodge for yourself. Come as a guest and leave as a friend, with memories of Arizona’s beautiful Tonto National Forest that will last a lifetime. For more information, visit cherrycreeklodge.com.