K High Five Ranch Bed and Breakfast in Carson Valley is the creation of Helen E. Kolbe Johnson, a native to Gardnerville, Nevada and proprietor of this spacious ranch retreat. Born and raised on the property, Helen is the granddaughter of Gardnerville founders and brought her three sons up in the area. Now she wishes to share her home and its history with other people from around the country and the world.

Unlike other bed and breakfast inns in the area, K High Five Ranch has a working cattle ranch that encompasses approximately 225 acres of hay fields. The ranch is home to many types of wildlife, including bald and golden eagles during calving season (February) and coyotes and their pups during the haying months (June/July). White and blue herons, ducks, and geese are just a few of the birds in the area.

Your host's home is cozy yet elegant. Her collection of watercolors adorns the walls, and there are panoramic views from all the windows -- either of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada or the hay fields dotted with beef cows and their caves. The home is surrounded by incredible gardens with colors for all seasons. There are large patios on each side of the house, offering guests either cool shade or sunny relaxation. A large pond in the front yard thrives with water lilies, fish, and an occasional pair of ducks resting from their journey north or south.

You have a choice of two rooms and a suite, each individually decorated and thoughtfully appointed. The master suite provides a queen-size bed and private bath, and just out its French doors is a private hot tub for a relaxing or romantic weekend. The two rooms, one with queen-size bed and the other with a full-size bed, share a bath.

Breakfast is a smorgasbord-style event with fresh meats, cheeses, and breads, reflecting Helen's Danish heritage. A hot entree is served as well. Vegetarian menus can be provided upon request. Visit with your host over a second cup of coffee, or get some help planning your day's activities in the Gardnerville area and beyond.

K High Ranch offers the peace and relaxation of the high Nevada country combined with the adventure and beauty of the Lake Tahoe area. It is ideal for weddings, family reunions, and barbecues as well. The ranch home and the surrounding area are rich in history, and host Helen is eager to share it with you.

Visitors can bring their horses and ride the 200-plus acres.

Avid cyclists are out every sunny day, perhaps practicing for the yearly Death Ride (three mountain passes in one day).

Lake Tahoe is only 15 minutes away, and events in the the Reno/Tahoe area abound, including Hot August Nights, Street Vibrations motorcycle rally, and antique wooden boat races at Lake Tahoe, plus world-class soaring, skiing, and golf -- all within an hour of K High Five Ranch.

Hiking, picnicking, access to Indian petroglyphs, and fishing in the creek for brookies are available as well on 160 family acres high above Tahoe.