Out in the untamed West, skill and precision meant the difference between survival and surrender. Ranchers, cowboys, and frontiersmen honed their marksmanship by tracking fast-moving targets across open plains. At C Lazy U Ranch, you can step into that legacy, gun in hand, and take your shot at an experience straight out of the Old West.
Stand under Colorado’s boundless blue sky and test your skill and reflexes as you experience the timeless thrill of the perfect shot. Whether you’re a seasoned sharpshooter or a beginner trying shooting for the first time, C Lazy U Ranch’s family-friendly trap shooting range welcomes all skill levels. With expert instructors, a stunning Western backdrop, and plenty of adrenaline-pumping action, this is clay target shooting in Colorado the way it was meant to be.
Related: See the Other All-Inclusive Activities at C Lazy U
What is Trap Shooting?
Trap shooting is a firearm sport that tests your aim, reflexes, and focus. The goal? To hit small clay targets — also known as “pigeons” — as they launch through the air. At the ranch, there are two trap shooting machines to accommodate different skill levels:
- Our beginner-friendly machine launches targets straight up, allowing newcomers to focus on tracking and timing.
- Our more advanced machine throws targets from the side, mimicking real bird flight patterns for a more dynamic challenge.
Staff members are standing by to ensure guest safety, teach proper shooting form, and offer tips to beginners (and humble experts).
What to Bring & What’s Provided
C Lazy U ensures you have everything you need for an epic day at the range. Guests are encouraged to bring their own protective eyewear (typically sunglasses suffice), but we provide:
- A variety of firearms suitable for beginners and pros alike, including a .22, .410, and 12-gauge shotgun
- Ear protection
- Ammo
If you’re a trap shooting beginner, our experienced instructors will walk you through everything you need to know, including how to safely load and hold the gun as well as how to track a moving target.
Is Trap Shooting Safe?
At C Lazy U, safety is at the core of every adventure. Our family-friendly trap shooting experience begins with a comprehensive safety briefing led by our expert staff. Each group is kept small — no more than five people — ensuring personalized guidance and strict adherence to safety protocols. Plus, our trap shooting range is in a secluded area of the ranch, ensuring the safety of other guests and giving you space to focus and fire away without distraction.
What Should I Expect From Trap Shooting?
Every session at our range is a unique blend of western excitement and skill-building. After the safety briefing, each member of your group will take turns firing several rounds. Depending on your skill and experience level, your instructor will provide information that ranges from basic instruction to expert tips for improving your gun handling and shooting scores. Once you feel comfortable with the gun, you’ll be able to choose which of the targets you’d like to hit. Beginners can focus on hitting a single target at a time, while advanced shooters can try to hit several targets from both machines.
How to Sign Up for Trap Shooting
Trap shooting sessions are available twice daily in summer and once per day in winter. You can reserve your spot in advance by calling the ranch before your stay, or sign up in person at the Outfitter’s Cabin when you arrive.
Don’t Just Take Our Word for It!
Here’s what some of our guests had to say about their first experience with clay target shooting in Colorado:
“I was nervous at first, but my instructor was amazing! By the end, I felt like a pro — such a fun and empowering experience!” – Emily W.
“Trap shooting was one of my favorite activities at the ranch! Watching those clays explode midair was so satisfying. I’ll definitely be back!” – Lynne C.
Step Into the Boots of a Western Sharpshooter
There’s no rush quite like feeling the recoil run up your arm as you watch a clay pigeon burst against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Ready to take your place as the West’s newest and best sharpshooter? Grab your family, friends, or coworkers and take aim at adventure.
Book your stay at C Lazy U dude ranch and resort and add a round of trap shooting to your ultimate western getaway!
