Juniper Valley Ranch

Now almost hidden by juniper and skunk brush, this popular dining room has not changed its menu since opening day in 1951. You will find the little red mud house fifteen miles south of Colorado Springs on Highway 115 on part of the Parker homestead. On a warm summer night in 1951, Ethel Shirola and Evelyn Ellis served a family style dinner of fried chicken and baked ham - with all of the homemade fixings, of course - to about 30 of their invited friends and guests as a trial run for Juniper Valley Ranch Restaurant. Since then untold thousands of visitors and locals alike have enjoyed the very same meal in the little mud house. Grandma Ethel and Aunt Evelyn are the daughters of Guy and Bessie Parker. Reservations Strongly Recommended Checks or Cash.Sorry, No Credit Cards Guy was one of the first babies born in Colorado Springs, and Bessie was born in Fountain, Colorado. Guy spent some of his early years guiding visitors via mule to the top of Pikes Peak. Over the years, at least 20 immediate family members have had a hand in the business, with the rest of the help being comprised of neighbors and friends. Today, Ethel's eldest grandson, Greg, runs the restaurant. Many things have changed since 1951, but at Juniper Valley, the menu, the atmosphere and the attitude that "you're always company at our house" have not.