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Archive for the ‘What am I going to do?’ Category

What Makes Fishing at a Dude Ranch So Special?

May 22nd, 2013 by Kim @ The DRA

Is it the fresh mountain air or the wide open spaces?

…or could it be that flash of color rising from the dark, clear pool as that beautiful, sleek trout rises to your offering?

Why not experience all of this combined with spectacular scenery, miles of private fishing waters, experienced guides, and more…grab your fly rod and head to one of the Orvis Endorsed Dude Ranches listed below for the fishing experience of a lifetime!

North Fork Ranch & Fishing Lodge

Shawnee, Colorado Phone: +1 800-843-7895 Welcome to life at North Fork Ranch! One hour from Denver, in the majestic Rocky Mountains, you will find horseback riding, whitewater rafting, world class fly fishing (Orvis Endorsed), zip line, evening activities, intimate accommodations, dining with a gourmet flare and activities for all ages!

C Lazy U Ranch

Granby, Colorado Phone: +1 970-887-3344 Serving guests since 1919, the C Lazy U Ranch is known for providing the highest level of personalized service, professional horsemanship programs, first-class amenities, enriching children’s programs, gourmet meals and upscale accommodations.

Home Ranch

Clark, Colorado Phone: +1 970-879-1780 Featured in the first edition of “1,000 Places To See Before You Die”, The Home Ranch, located 18 miles north of Steamboat Springs, CO in the stunning Elk River Valley, is the only Relais & Chateaux dude ranch in Colorado, an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing lodge, and a year round paradise for families.

Hidden Meadow Ranch

Greer, Arizona Phone: +1 866-333-4080 Celebrate the seasons at this pristine quest ranch surrounded by thousands of acres of national forest in Arizona’s White Mountains.

Hubbards Six Quarter Circle Ranch

Emigrant, Montana Phone: +1 406-848-7755 We are a working cattle ranch with upscale accomodations and food. We feature a very personalized riding program that includes daily cattle drives, scenic trail rides, and the chance to canter through our alpine meadows.

The Lodge & Spa At Brush Creek Ranch

Saratoga, Wyoming Phone: 307-327-5284 Situated on 15,000 acres of expansive, rolling wilderness in Saratoga Wyoming between the peaks of the Sierra Madre and Snowy Mountain Ranges. Designed for high-end group experiences, the ranch offers something for everyone from horseback riding to guided fly fishing and snowmobiling.

Lone Mountain Ranch

Big Sky, Montana Phone: +1 800-514-4644 Discovery is in our Nature! Endless recreational possibilities at this historic ranch offering horseback riding , hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, fly fishing and Outdoor Youth Adventures just 18 miles from Yellowstone National Park. Cozy, comfortable log cabins with western furnishings.

High Lonesome Ranch

DeBeque, Colorado Phone: (970)283-9420 The High Lonesome Ranch is a high-end guest ranch that offers experiences ranging from sporting pursuits, weddings, corporate group retreats, family reunions and hunting leases. A getaway to the High Lonesome Ranch can be “exactly as wild as you want it” by customizing it to your specific needs.

Spotted Horse Ranch

Jackson Hole, Wyoming Phone: +1 800-528-2084 Located south of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the Spotted Horse Ranch offers a wide variety of activities for people of all ages. From horseback riding to river rafting; from the Jackson Hole Rodeo to bar-be-que cookouts, we offer something for everyone, which enhances your western experience.

Tags: Activities, adventure vacation, all-inclusive, Family Ranch Vacations, fishing, Fishing Lodges
Posted in Choosing a Ranch, Dude Ranch, Family Vacations, What am I going to do? | No Comments »

Dude Ranchers’ Association Kicks Off Summer Travel Season at 100+ Accredited Ranches

May 13th, 2013 by Kim @ The DRA

Dude ranches gear up for peak season as families continue to search for all-inclusive vacation options

CODY, WYOMING – April XX, 2013 – The saddle bags are dusted off, the horses are groomed and the wranglers are driving the cattle home all in preparation for the opening of another season at dude ranches throughout the western U.S. The Dude Ranchers’ Association – which currently has more than 100 accredited members – is proud to welcome guests back to its guest ranches for peak season, which runs from May through September for most member ranches.

The Dude Ranchers’ Association represents a broad spectrum of guest ranches across North America, ranging from rustic, no-frills working ranches to luxury resort-style ranches offering five-star cuisine and spa treatments, located in some of the most scenic areas of the country. Established in 1926, the non-profit organization was founded to preserve, protect and promote the unique experience and identity of a dude ranch vacation.

Vacationing at dude ranches has been a long-standing tradition for many families as repeat visits are quite common. The Dude Ranchers’ Association has seen an increase in new bookings over the past couple of years, which the organization attributes to the fact that travelers are searching for an all-inclusive vacation experience without the large crowds often seen on cruise ships or very well-known tourist destinations. The U.S. Travel Association recently released a study citing that 62 percent of adult’s earliest memories were of family vacations taken when they were between ages 5 and 10, leaving many families in particular searching for a vacation that will create unique and lasting memories.

As the original all-inclusive vacation, dude ranches offer value and numerous advantages over other all-inclusive vacation options including no planning once you arrive, flexibility to customize your itinerary, and no additional costs once you arrive to your destination. Guest ranches also offer a wide variety of summer activities. From horseback riding and hiking, to ziplining and archery, to swimming and yoga, a dude ranch vacation guarantees a memorable experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

Choosing a summer vacation that makes everyone happy can present quite a challenge, from the stress of planning your vacation and budget considerations, to selecting a destination that has activities to please everyone. Whether you’re planning a vacation for multiple generations of the family, a romantic getaway for two, or the outdoor adventure of a lifetime, the Dude Ranchers’ Association can help you select and plan the perfect guest ranch vacation.

“As travelers continue to plan their summer vacations, we want to remind them that dude ranches are more than just cowboys and cattle drives – there’s a variety of activities at our ranches to suit guests of all ability levels, interest and ages,” said Colleen Hodson, executive director of the Dude Ranchers’ Association. “The Dude Ranchers’ Association is eager to welcome both new and repeat visitors for another season as our member ranches continue to provide guests with an authentic dude ranch experience they’ll never forget.”

No matter which guest ranch you choose, it is sure to strengthen the bond between your family, loved one or friends and become a destination you’ll want to return to time and time again. Like the ranches themselves, accommodations vary from luxurious and elegant to rustic and cowboy-chic, from private cabins that can sleep entire families to lodge rooms that share common space. All Dude Ranchers’ Association-accredited lodging options will soon feel like your “home away from home.

A complete listing of DRA-accredited dude and guest ranches can be found online at duderanch.org. Visitors can search for ranches by location or activities and amenities. For assistance planning your dude ranch vacation, contact the Dude Ranchers’ Association at (866) 399-2339.

About the Dude Ranchers’ Association
Dude ranches are the original Western vacation. The Dude Ranchers’ Association (DRA) was founded to preserve, protect and promote this unique vacation experience and its identity. Though guest expectations have changed and ranchers have had to change with them, the core principles of dude ranching remain the same: horses, hats, hospitality, heritage, honesty and heart. DRA was founded in 1926 and currently has more than 100 accredited members, all of which are required to uphold the highest quality and standards within the dude ranching industry. For more information on the DRA or individual ranches, visit www.duderanch.org. The DRA can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DudeRanchers and Twitter @DudeRanchers.

Tags: adventure vacation, all-inclusive, Family Ranch Vacations, fishing, Horses, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
Posted in Choosing a Ranch, Dude Ranch, Family Vacations, What am I going to do?, What am I going to eat?, What am I going to wear?, Where am I going to stay? | No Comments »

The Best of the West…The Deal on Dude Ranches

October 24th, 2012 by Kim @ The DRA

Last week Travel Courier ran a great article by Ian Stalker about our terrific ranches. Hope you enjoy!

Saddle Up to Dude Ranch Vacation

Colleen Hodson says those who opt for the type of vacation she promotes can saddle up or simply put their feet up.

Hodson is executive director of North America’s Dude Ranchers’ Association and says a stay at a dude ranch isn’t necessarily the type of vacation many expect.

“While most people usually associate dude ranches with cowboys and cattle drives, they are much more,” she says of the more than 100 accredited members in her association. “Dude ranches are the original all-inclusive vacation and are committed to preserving and sharing the Western way of life. Guests are able to customize thier dude ranch experience to suit their needs and desires. From yoga and cooking classes, to fly fishing and hiking, to swimming and bird-watching, a vacation at a DRA-accredited guest ranch guarantees a memorable experience ulike anything else.

“Horseback riding is, or course, one of the main activities on most DRA-accredited guest ranches, but their’s so much more. Dude ranches allow the flexibility to ride as much or as little as you would like: there are breakfast rides, lunch rides, all day rides, half-day rides, wine and cheese sunset rides, as well as horse clinics, riding lessons, team penning and cattle work. Or, if you’d rather, you can simply gaze at a pasture of horses, while you enjoy a good book or a glass of wine.”

Many association members now offer spa treatments, while other activities can include white-water rafting, hay rides, western dancing, golf, ATV rides, hiking, mountain biking, and baseball, while evenings may see cowboy singers, casino nights, western movies and star-gazing. (read more)

For more infomation about The Dude Ranchers’ Association or for assistance in picking the right ranch for your vacation please visit WWW.DUDERANCH.ORG or call 866-399-2339

Tags: added value, adventure vacation, all-inclusive, cowboys, cowgirls, The Dude Ranchers' Association, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
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Why Dude Ranches?

September 2nd, 2011 by Kim @ The DRA

Another great article from Travel Savvy News...

Dress Me Once More in a Sombrero that Flaps –
Spurs, Flannel Shirt, Slicker and Chaps –
Out Where the Sagebrush is Dusty and Gray –
Make me a Cowboy Again for a Day –

What is it that attracts so many of us to the allure of the West? Is it the cowboys, horses, cattle, wide-open spaces or just good old Western Hospitality? All of these things and more can be found on a Dude Ranch. Not only do today’s dude ranches supply guests with the real western experience, but they can also provide a family vacation value second to none.

Ever since dude ranches evolved around the turn of the century, horses have been one of the central attractions and remain so. Whether hearing the pounding hooves as the wranglers round up the string on a cool summer morning, climbing into the high country with family and friends to enjoy the spectacular views or Loping through a wildflower strewn mountain meadow, a ranch vacation will deliver images and memories of the horse that you will not soon forget. Today’s ranches however, have much more to offer.

Dude Ranches have expanded their activity list to include such adventures as blue ribbon fly fishing, naturalist guided hiking, natural water swimming, local history excursions, wilderness pack trips, mountain biking, spa treatments and white water rafting to name a few. What all of this comes down to is flexibility and options. With so many choices you will begin to feel that there just may not be enough hours in the day to do it all. Well…then you have the evenings which may include such entertaining events as chuck-wagon dinners, western dancing, cowboy poetry, star gazing, or just hanging out by the big bon fire exchanging stories with the cowboys.

A Dude Ranch vacation gives parents a chance to enjoy their own pursuits or spend time with their children having the peace of mind that the whole family is being well taken care of. Arts and crafts, pony rides, talent shows, kid’s rodeos and even overnight pack trips are just some of the kid’s activities offered. More importantly however, ranches have a way of reconnecting kids and adults with animals and the outdoors.

In addition to diversified activities, Dude Ranches can also supply you with the creature comforts that you have come to expect at fine resorts. Hearty Western cooking with a gourmet flair, fine wine lists, hot tubs, fire places and even massage are beginning to appear at many ranches for guest enjoyment. What really makes a ranch vacation special and unique are the people that you will meet and interact with in an environment that fosters lifelong friendships. Many guests return year after year on the same week each summer to their favorite ranch where the chemistry of family and friends is just right.

The gate is always open and the welcome sign out, so come enjoy the Original Western Vacation at its best.

For more information about all 104 Dude and Guest Ranches in The Dude Ranchers Association please visit our web site at www.duderanch.org or give us a call at 1-866-399-2339.
September 1st, 2011

Tags: Activities, Choosing a Ranch, The Dude Ranchers' Association
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Dude Ranches: Beyond the Stables

August 9th, 2011 by Kim @ The DRA

Anyone that’s been on a dude ranch vacation or retreat knows how much fun they have to offer. From arena games to family rides to pony rides for the kids, there’s truly something out there for everyone. Still, with all of the fun horse-riding activities and “ranch” related things to do, it’s sometimes easy to forget how many other great activities are offered on America’s Guest Ranches. Here is a list of five activities offered on various DRA Dude Ranches that you may not have known existed, but should make sure not to miss…

Western Dancing – While you’re out on the ranch, why not delve into a little dancing? There’s nothing like a sunset hoedown, and there are 51 different DRA certified ranches that offer such shindigs! Next time you’re out on a guest ranch vacation, throw on your dancing shoes and a cowboy hat and let the good times roll.

Zip Line – While riding around on the ground can be fun, zip lining through the sky can bring your trip to a whole new level. Guaranteed fun for both adults and kids, there are dude ranches in Arkansas, Colorado and Idaho that each offer zip lines. Get out there, and get ready to fly!

Fishing – Take your rec time from the stables to the lake for some good old-fashioned dude ranch fishing. There are 87 Dude Ranches that offer fishing activities, so there’s no excuse not to pull out the hook, line and sinker and catch tonight’s dinner!

Yoga – Vacations are all about relaxing, and when it comes to relaxing, there is nothing like a little bit of yoga. Whether you want to start your day with a short session before you head out into the wilderness, or you just want to finish the day off with a nice calming activity, yoga has what you’re looking for. There are fifteen different dude ranches that offer yoga, so if this is something that interests you, you’re in luck!

Archery – When you think of a dude ranch you don’t necessarily think of archery, but there are thirty different DRA ranches that offer such activities. Nothing’s more fun for the family then a little bit of friendly competition, and archery is the perfect outlet for this. Take a break from horses and test your skills and coordination, archery can be more fun than you might expect!

As far as fun non-riding activities offered on dude ranches, this is a great start, but the list is by no means exhaustive. Bird watching, mountain climbing, river rafting and more are all available at guest ranches across the country. Next time you visit a guest ranch, make sure to take advantage of all the activities they have to offer, and you’re sure to have the time of your life.

Tags: Activities, adventure vacation, all-inclusive, Family Vacations, frequently asked questions, Riding, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
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Where will I Stay, What will I Eat and What will I do at a Dude Ranch?

June 14th, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

A Dude Ranch Vacation is all about YOU the guest. All member ranches of The Dude Ranchers’ Association are committed to making sure you have the vacation of a life time. With our warm western hospitality, our outstanding horses, great food, accommodations and our spectacular locations, we guarantee a vacation you and your loved ones will not soon forget.. Come experience the Original Western Vacation at its Best.

Where will I Stay?

Imagine yourself sitting in a big overstuffed chair with your favorite book by a crackling fire. Now, imagine glancing out the big picture window to a view that simply takes your breath away. No noisy streets, no high-rise buildings, just you, your book and that spectacular view. Dude Ranch accommodations will vary from ranch to ranch from luxurious to elegant rustic to Cowboy Chic. Whether you are staying in your own private cabin or in a lodge room, rest assured you will be sleeping on comfortable beds, in superbly kept rooms with all the amenities you will need.

What will I Eat?

You will discover that dining at a dude ranch will be one of the most memorable parts of your vacation. Whether you are dining around a camp fire, under the stars, enjoining a pool side barbecue or sitting at an elegant candlelit table, the food is simply amazing. The fare will range from home-style cooking to the finest western cuisine you will find anywhere. Ranches offer freshly baked pastries and breads, fresh fruits and vegetables (often grown right on the ranch) and some of the most delectable desserts you have ever imagined. Your dining experience is truly one of our highest priorities; special dietary needs are always accommodated upon request.

What Will I Do?

The pace at all dude ranches can be as leisurely or as active as you would like it to be. While unlimited Horseback riding is the main focus of all DRA ranches the other activities you can experience are endless. Hiking in National Parks and forests, white water rafting, world class fly fishing on private waters, overnight pack trips, trap shooting, golf, children’s programs, evening entertainment, cattle work and much, much more….There really is something for everyone.

Area Attractions:

Many of our ranches are located next to National Parks, National Forests and monuments. Many are located on or near rivers and lakes all having world class fishing. Some of the many activities included are of course world class horseback riding and fishing, white water rafting, hiking, trap shooting, children’s programs, cattle work, evening entertainment, campfires, star gazing, bird watching and overnight camp trips just to name a few.

Tags: Activities, adventure vacation, Choosing a Ranch, Dude Ranch, Family Vacations, frequently asked questions, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
Posted in Choosing a Ranch, Dude Ranch, Family Vacations, What am I going to do?, What am I going to eat?, Where am I going to stay? | Comments Off

Summer Dude Ranch Specials Near Yellowstone

May 25th, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

The UXU Guest Ranch, located 17 miles from the east entrance to the Yellowstone National Park would like to share its outstanding scenery with you this summer. This is a very spacious Ranch situated on the North Fork of the Shoshone River with an abundance of adequate water and open space allowing the UXU Ranch a perfect setting for dining in the open air while overlooking horses eating in a lush green mountain pasture. The UXU Guest Ranch is offering the following specials:

Select weeks in July they will be offering a 10% discount. Please call for details.

For the week of July 3^rd through 9^th, the UXU Ranch will be celebrating July 4^th with festivities in the Rodeo Capital of the World, Cody, Wyoming, at no additional charge. This includes the July 4^th Cody Stampede Rodeo, the Cody Fireworks Display, and Cody Stampede Parade. Please call for availability for this Independence Day special offer.

You can contact the UXU Guest Ranch at (800)373-9027

http://www.uxuranch.com

Tags: Activities, all-inclusive, Holidays on the Ranch, Wyoming Dude Ranch
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Family Dude Ranches in Colorado

May 23rd, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

Colorado dude ranches offer many different styles of family vacations ranging from rustic to luxurious. While the classic dude ranch vacation has always revolved around cattle drives and bunkhouse accommodations, many modern dude ranches also offer family-oriented activities, gourmet meals and lavish accommodations. Most dude ranches are only open during summer, though a handful of Colorado’s dude ranch proprietors offer big-game hunting expeditions during winter for more-adventurous families.

Northern Colorado

The Wind River Christian Dude Ranch (windriverranch.com) welcomes families to embrace their spiritual heritage while experiencing Colorado’s frontier lifestyle. This large, 80-year-old resort is close to Rocky Mountain National Park and offers an abundance of outdoor activities to explore the breathtaking countryside. Wind River offers all-inclusive resort pricing for six-day stays complete with all meals and activities that range from golf to fishing. Core programs at the ranch revolve around morning activities catering to the needs of children, pre-teens and teenagers.

Western Colorado

The San Juan Mountains are one of Colorado’s most rugged and remote areas. This mountain range is home to three wilderness areas with abundant recreation opportunities, historic mining ghost towns and several of the state’s “fourteeners,” mountains over 14,000 feet tall. (read more)

South-Central Colorado

Tarryall River Ranch offers seven-day all-inclusive packages that cater to families who want an active and social vacation. Located within two hours of Denver in rural Park County, Tarryall River Ranch is a small family-owned operation featuring cabin rentals for up to 30 guests, horseback riding, fly-fishing, river-rafting and kid-friendly amenities, including a petting zoo, a jungle gym and special riding programs for teens. During the cooler fall months, Tarryall offers adults-only weeks, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and guided hunting trips.

Eastern Colorado

Eastern Colorado is vastly different from the rugged, mountainous Western Slope region. This windswept area is shaped by rolling prairies, open plains and far-reaching views of the Rocky Mountains. The Colorado Cattle Company and Guest Ranch (coloradocattlecompany.com) is a working guest ranch geared toward adults and older teens who want to perfect the fine art of roping a steer from horseback, as well as participate in arena games like pole-bending and barrel-racing. Shooting games, fishing and wildlife-watching are other popular activities. This rustic ranch has accommodations that can house up to 20 guests at a time and meals are included in the price. (read more)

Tags: colorado dude ranch, Family Vacations
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2011 Fly Fishing Special Packages

May 18th, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana is running a great promotion for all of the fishermen and women out there. This is a fantastic example of one of the many activities offered at Dude Ranches across the West! Here are the details:

Get the Helios Rod of your choice free with your Fly Fishing Package!

4 night/ 3 day Fly Fishing Package

Includes 3 days guided fly fishing, 4 nights lodging, all meals, one free Helios rod of your choice, rental gear, flies and transportation to and from the Bozeman, Montana airport.

*Package price based on double occupancy in a small cabin. Each double occupancy booking receives one Helios fly rod valued at $775. Must book before June 30, 2011. Trips available June 12 thru September 25, 2011. Single occupancy rates also available.

7 night/ 6 day Fly Fishing Package

Includes 6 days guided fly fishing, 7 nights lodging, all meals, two free Helios rods of your choice, rental gear, flies and transportation to and from the Bozeman, Montana airport.

*Package price based on double occupancy. Each double occupancy booking for this package receives two Helios rods valued at $1550. Must book before June 30, 2011. Trips available June 12 thru September 25, 2011. Single occupancy rates also available.

Return guests to Lone Mountain Ranch receive an additional 10% off the Fly Fishing Package

For the more adventurous fly fisherman, we also offer day and overnight fishing in Yellowstone National Park and alpine lake fishing in the Spanish Peaks and Lee Metcalf Wilderness. (read more)

Tags: Activities, Dude Ranch, fishing, Montana Dude Ranch
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Horse Vacations

May 16th, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

Written by Jennifer Walker | 02 May 2011
Posted in Articles

Dude Ranches/Guest Ranches

Dude ranches, also known as guest ranches, are the classic vacation idea to get the complete western experience. They are generally all-inclusive, with accommodations on-site in cabins or quaint inns and food served in the ranch’s dining room or by the campfire.

Dude ranch vacations are usually free-form rather than structured, allowing guests to participate in whichever activities they like. Choices vary from ranch to ranch, but horseback riding is universal. Guided or independent trail rides can last anywhere from a couple of hours to all day.

Another requisite dude ranch activity is a campfire or cookout. Guests are transported back to the old west, when cowboys sat around the campfire singing songs. Guests will gather around for a delicious cook-out meal and sing songs together—a great social activity.

Some other common dude ranch activities include country dancing, trips to ghost towns or other site-seeing spots, fishing, hunting, swimming and boating. There is something for every member of the family, young and old. (read more)

Tags: Activities, adventure vacation, cowboys, cowgirls, Family Vacations, kids
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