Just "Dude" It – The Dude Ranchers' Association Blog
Helping People Find Quality Dude Ranches and Guest Ranch Vacations Since 1926

Posts Tagged ‘frequently asked questions’

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
Posted in Choosing a Ranch, Family Vacations, What am I going to do? | Comments Off

Meet Your Host – Colleen Hodson of the Dude Ranchers’ Association

July 20th, 2011 by Kim @ The DRA

Thought you might enjoy the following interview conducted by Equitrekking:

July 12, 2011

Meet Colleen Hodson, Executive Director of the Dude Ranchers’ Association (DRA), located in Cody, Wyoming. It is her job to ensure that the more than 100 ranch members of the association provide the most complete and memorable experience possible to guests. From Arkansas to California and all the way through British Columbia, Colleen has traveled to evaluate each ranch, ensuring that guests receive the type of experience they seek.

Equitrekking: You have visited a lot of ranches in your career with the Dude Ranchers’ Association. What’s been your favorite part of the experience and has it made you a better rider?

Colleen Hodson: I have visited over 110 ranches and being able to see the amazing places these ranches’ are located in is probably the best thing about my job. That being said, the ranchers, ranch managers and the entire staff at every DRA dude ranch goes way above and beyond to make sure your stay is exactly what you want it to be.

Having horses of my own and riding on regular basis for the past 30 years I thought I would find the riding a little regimented and more geared to just the beginner rider. Well was I wrong! They truly can accommodate any riding level from the most inexperienced to the most experienced. The wranglers at dude ranches are some of the most well rounded, diverse people I have ever been around. You may get a kid who grew up on a cattle ranch working cows since he was 4, or a kid that just graduated from Cornell and was on the polo team, and everything in between. The one thing they all have in common is their love of horses and people. Their ability to take a novice rider on day one of their stay and turn them into a good, if not great, rider by day three is amazing to watch. So to answer your question, yes – I have learned more about riding and the horse in general in these past 10 years than I ever thought I would and that has made me a much better rider.

Equitrekking: The Dude Ranchers’ Association has been around for a long time, since 1926, what is the mission of your historic organization?

Colleen Hodson: The association was started to help promote, protect and preserve not only the western way of life a dude ranch offers, but also to protect and preserve the places and the land that these ranches operate in and around. Our mission has not changed much over the years, we still want to help the ranches stay viable so that people who might not otherwise get the chance to experience the wonders of the west can still do so. The ranches truly do consider themselves stewards of the land. (read more)

Tags: dude Ranch History, frequently asked questions, Horses, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
Posted in Dude Ranch | 2 Comments »

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

Western Wear for your Western Vacation – what to wear to a Dude Ranch – Spring 2011

April 18th, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

By Katie Ennis of RCC Western Stores

After you decide to book a western vacation to a Dude Ranch, you now need Western wear , cowboy boots and western apparel for your trip. I really enjoyed Jamie Pearson’s article where she mentions to bring more clothes and she wished she had brought cuter clothes. I have just the thing! Western Clothing and apparel has to be durable and comfortable and I have picked some items for Men, Women and Children from RCC Western Stores that combine Western fashion and function for your dude ranch getaway. Cowboy hats, Western wear, Cowboy Boots & Western Accessories are some things you want to stock up on. Look great while on your western Dude Ranch vacation! Make sure you have the “cute clothes” Jamie refers to. I’m going to let you know what’s hot in western wear plus durable enough to withstand a day in the saddle. Let’s start at the top:

Cowboy Hats – Although most people think of a traditional felt cowboy hat, if you are going to a Dude ranch in the summer you will want a straw cowboy hat. Charlie 1 Horse Hats (pictured on the woman in this picture) are our best selling womens hats, but here are some of my overall top picks for mens, womens and kids cowboy hats:

Charlie 1 Horse Comanche Burnished Straw Cowboy Hat $36.98 Good-looking hat with plenty of protection from the sun

Atwood Dayworker Palm Leaf Cowboy Hat $54.98 Holds up in most all weather conditions, flexible brim

Lonestar Bangora Straw Cowboy Hat $19.98 Functional, economical choice for men or women

Lonestar Cheyenne Jr. Natural Straw Cowboy Hat $15.98 Kids Hat – Good old timeless western style for the young cowboy

Want to know how your cowboy hat should fit? Watch our Cowboy Hat Fit Video on Youtube.

Western Shirts – It’s a toss up between a long sleeve shirt to protect against dust, sun or bugs and a short sleeve western shirt to stay cool. I would recommend both – one for hot mid-day and one for evening. Western shirts come in a variety of styles, from traditional western yokes to modern retro cowboy shirts. You will find a variety of styles and good deals to be had with a large amount of mens western shirts under $20 and womens western shirts under $30. I’ve also provided the links here for you to browse through.

Western Jeans – Here is one of the most important decisions you can make directly correlating to your comfort while riding. I’ve spent many hours in the saddle and I can truly recommend some jeans to keep you comfortable while looking great. Make sure you order them 2” longer than normal to allow for creep while in the saddle and to cover your boots creating the traditional “stacked” look preferred by cowboys and cowgirls.

Top picks for Womens western jeans for horseback riding:

Cruel Girl Georgia Dark Stonewash Relaxed Fit Jeans $44.88 Look and feel great all day long! Designed for riding, these also hug your curves. Love them!

Wrangler Q-Baby Tuff Buck Relaxed Fit Jean $39.98 Wow! Ultimate Riding Jeans – These fit any woman’s body shape. No gap waistband, minimal seam on inside of leg to reduce friction against the saddle.

Cowgirl Tuff Dark Don’t Fence Me In Jeans $74.98 Modern Styling on a cowgirl jean – designed by a barrel racer these jeans look amazing and are comfortable in the saddle. Rise is a bit lower than the previous 2 jeans.

Top picks for Mens western jeans for horseback riding:

Wrangler Prewashed 13MWZ Original Fit Cowboy Cut Jeans $29.98 Original Cowboy Cut jeans – official jeans of the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association. Enough said.
Cinch White Label Dark Stonewash Relaxed Fit Jeans $49.98 Cinch is extremely popular with cowboys looking for a more modern look and feel. Two 5 star reviews!
Cinch Bronze Label Slim Fit Jeans $39.98 Classy looking, durable jeans. If you have a problem with most jeans being baggy in the rear or appreciate a slim fit these are for you.

All of the Kids Jeans featured on our site from Wrangler, Cinch and Cowgirl Tuff are excellent for riding.

Cowboy Boots – There are so many choices for cowboy boots out there, but you want your feet to be happy on a vacation, so here are some based on comfort, safety and cowboy boot style.

Tony Lama Men’s Chocolate Vintage Smooth Ostrich Cowboy Boots $239.88 Handsome, supple leather, Made in USA. Square toe – Classy cowboy style.

Lucchese Cowgirl Collection Black Smooth Ostrich Boots $379.98 This high quality super comfy crepe sole boot features a bucking bronco for true cowgirl spirit. Pamper yourself in these handmade beauties.

Ariat Cowboy Boots – Overall, for those new to the game, Ariat is an excellent choice for your first cowboy boot. They are a very versatile boot and most have rubber soles designed to help keep your feet in the stirrups. Choices for under $90.

Buckaroo Cowboy Boots – These authentic cowboy boots are the trademark of a true cowboy or cowgirl. Buckaroo boots are popular with those spending all day in the saddle. Definite riding boots but bring casual footwear for walking, etc.

Kids Cowboy Boots in all colors and styles from infant to youth, choices under $40.

Western Accessories – Don’t forget western accessories to complete your look! Many of these western accessories double with your regular wardrobe and look great! I’ve also included some “must haves” for your Dude Ranch trip like stampede strings.

Western Belts – Rhinestone belts for women, concho and western belts for men.
Belt Buckles – Belt Buckles for everyone!
Boot Socks – special to fit perfect with your boots.
Hat Care and Stampede Strings – Take care of your hat and keep it on!
Cowboy Scarves and Bandanas – To protect your face from dust and silk scarves keep you warm in colder temps. or chilly mornings.

Thanks for reading this article and browsing the choices for western wear, cowboy boots and western accessories for your Dude Ranch getaway or western vacation. These items are tested and tried by real cowboys and cowgirls and I’m sure you will like them for yourself. If you are not sure about the fit and style of western wear, please see the Western Wear Sizing Center to help determine what size clothing, cowboy hat or cowboy boots to get. To find a Dude Ranch or pick out the perfect western vacation visit the Dude Ranch Association website. RCC Western Stores is prepared to outfit you for your western vacation – Visit the Dude Ranchers page to find approved western wear and cowboy boots as well as outerwear and casual shoes. Happy Trails!

Tags: all-inclusive, cowboys, cowgirls, Dude Ranch, Family Vacations, fishing, frequently asked questions, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
Posted in Dude Ranch, Family Vacations, Resort Ranch, What am I going to wear? | Comments Off

What To Consider When Taking a Dude Ranch Vacation

March 25th, 2011 by Colleen @ The DRA

Since every ranch is a direct reflection of the family operating it, there are no two dude ranches alike. For our first time guests, we’ve created a list of basic questions. We encourage you to visit the ranch web sites and The Dude Ranchers’ Association web site For guest comments, try looking the ranch up on tripadvisor.com or a similar web site. Call or e-mail the ranches that you are interested in and ask them to help you. If they don’t offer everything you’re looking for, they will recommend a ranch that does. Association dude ranches work together in a spirit of cooperation to insure that your next vacation is your best vacation!

How do we get there?
When making your reservations, discuss your travel plans with the ranch. They will gladly advise you. Most guests travel by commercial airlines and have the ranch pick them up at the nearest airport. Ranches are frequently located near regional airports which accommodate private aircraft. For those of you within reasonable distances or wishing to explore more of the West, driving is always an option. (Although, you won’t use your car once you get there.)

Where are most ranches located?
Member ranches are located in the following 12 Western states and 2 Canadian provinces: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, Wyoming, Alberta and British Columbia, Canada.

Who takes ranch vacations?
People from all walks of life enjoy ranch vacations. Because they are a family -oriented, intimate environment, they are perfect for people traveling alone. Staff and guests are quick to include you as part of the group. Families enjoy ranch vacations for the wholesome environment which fosters quality time and valuable learning experiences. Children experience an amazing sense of freedom on a ranch. It’s a safe haven where the only people they will come in contact with are staff and guests. Active adults enjoy ranch vacations for all the outdoor activities and the unique socializing. Many ranch guests form lasting friendships and plan their vacations together. The love of horses and the wilderness brings people together from all over the world, to create a unique and diverse group of friends.

Are there ever discounted or special rates?
Dude ranches are similar to hotels and resorts in the sense that they have busy periods and quiet times. It is quite possible that you will receive a discounted or special rate if you are traveling during a slow period. If you have some flexibility in your travel plans, be sure to ask the ranch for details. You will often see their “specials” highlighted on their web sites.

When should we make our reservations?
Ranches enjoy a large percent of returning guests each year, but you should be able to make your reservations in the same time-frame as any other vacation. Just remember that ranches are small, (compared to most hotels and resorts) and you will want to choose a busy or a quiet time based on your expectations. School vacation periods are typically busy – perfect if you’re traveling with children. For more of an “Adults Only” experience, just ask the ranch to recommend a quiet time, or inquire about special programs for adults.

When are they open?
You can plan a ranch vacation any time of the year. You’ll find the southern ranches are most popular in the winter months and the northern ranches are the most popular in the summer months – some ranches are open year round and some seasonal ranches offer special holiday activities.

What are the rates and what is included?
The “all inclusive rate” concept originated at Dude Ranches. Rooms, meals and activities have been included in the rate since the late 1800′s. Typical Full American Plan rates are inclusive of food and lodging. With the exception of one or two ranches, the riding program is included as well. You may find extra charges for riding lessons, alcoholic beverages, airport transfers, river rafting, pack trips and cattle drives. But, for the most part, you will find that your rate includes a full day of activities as well as your meals and lodging. Ranch vacations are a great value and make it easy to stay within a budget. Because of the high ratio of staff to guests, a gratuity is usually added to the final bill and distributed to all employees. Rate cards for all ranches clearly state what is included and any additional charges that may apply.

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

Choosing a Guest Ranch Like the Echo Valley Ranch & Spa

October 21st, 2010 by Kim @ The DRA

Choosing a guest ranch for an upcoming vacation has some important considerations to research before you decide.

Accommodations at a Guest Ranch

If you are planning a vacation, one crucial thing is getting good accommodations. The choice mostly depends on what you want in your vacation. Various types of guest ranch accommodations are available. If privacy is what you are seeking, you can choose a guest ranch that offers private cabins otherwise you can choose lodge accommodations to get along more easily with other guests. At Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, you have the option of both.

Activities at a Guest Ranch

There are plenty of activities available at a guest ranch vacation. If a real cowboy experience is what you are looking for then a working ranch would be ideal. If your Preference is horseback riding, skiing, river rafting or skeet shooting; you can choose a guest ranch that offers these kinds of activities. Evening activities are also another important factor, if you want a massage or facial, you can choose a ranch resort spa such as Echo Valley Ranch & Spa. If singing songs around a campfire, playing games, dancing, watching movies or just relaxing is your idea of fun, in that case, you can choose those guest ranches that offer various nightly entertainments.

Guest Ranch Vacations for Families

If your vacation plan is for the whole family, you should choose a ranch that offers entertaining activities for the kids. Choosing a guest ranch that offers a full kids program would be wise. There are many guest ranches available that offer accommodations for family groups and contain an array of activities for the kids.

Seasons

The season and weather also play an important role in your vacation decisions. Depending on your preferences about summer and winter activities you can choose the season you want to book your guest ranch vacation. However, you will find many ranches that are open year round and will offer different entertainment opportunities depending on the season. Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is open year round currently. Please contact us for the various activities offered depending on the season.

Horseback Riding

No matter whether you are an experienced rider looking for a riding adventure or a novice looking for lessons, you will surely find guest ranches that will offer exactly what you want about horseback riding. Echo Valley Ranch & Spa has over 30 horses so there is a good selection for riders of all levels. Our wranglers will also hone your skills in the saddle with horseback riding lessons and guided horseback rides.

Dining at a Guest Ranch

Food is another factor that will influence your selection of guest ranches. If you want special cuisine, you can notify the guest ranch earlier as most ranches can prepare special food on demand. Normally you will get quality food as well as special items like BBQ’s or other items on theme nights. At Echo Valley, we have a gourmet chef on staff who prepares a variety of healthy gourmet organic meals. There is also a variety of Thai cuisine on the menu.

Vacation Cost

Budget is another thing that will influence your vacation. Guest ranch vacations vary in price depending on the season and type of accommodations. Usually the vacation package will cover all meals and most of the activities. The total cost will usually depend on the rating of the ranch. Guest ranches are rated from 1 star to 5 star accommodations. You will find accommodations from basic single rooms to luxurious cabins for bigger groups. Choosing extra activities will sometimes cost you some more money. It would be wise to check out the costs of various ranches before selecting one.

Location of Guest Ranch

You will find guest ranches in almost all the states and provinces of US and Canada. Where you want to go depends on your preference. You can choose one that is remotely placed or you can choose one near a major city or national park.

You should thoroughly evaluate all these areas before booking for your next guest ranch vacation. This way, you will be able to find a destination that fits your expectations the most.

Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is a 4.5 star luxury guest ranch with onside spa. Please visit us at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa

Author: Christine789

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1791158_29.html

Tags: Activities, adventure vacation, all-inclusive, Canadian Dude Ranch, frequently asked questions, Horse Information, Resort Ranch, Riding, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations
Posted in Family Vacations, Resort Ranch, What am I going to do?, What am I going to eat?, Where am I going to stay? | Comments Off

Dude Ranches Featured in American Cowboy Magazine!

May 17th, 2010 by Kim @ The DRA

American Cowboy Magazine highlighted “The Best Ranch Vacations of the West” in a nine page article in the June July 2009 issue written by Mark Bedor. Here is the link to the article…check it out!!

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

Frequently Asked Questions

May 19th, 2009 by Kim @ The DRA

Since every ranch is a direct reflection of the family operating it, there are no two ranches alike. The 100+ DRA member ranches offer a very wide variety of vacations. The ranches go from really luxurious to rustic, with everything in between. The great news is… there really is a ranch for every one’s dreams.

For our first time guests, we’ve created a list of basic questions.

• How do we get there?
• Where are most ranches located?
• Who takes ranch vacations?
• Are there ever discounted or special rates?
• When should we make our reservations?
• When are they open?
• What are the rates and what is included?

You will find the answers to all these questions and more on our website.
We encourage you to visit the ranch web sites and call or e-mail the ranches that you are interested in and ask them to help you. If they don’t offer everything you’re looking for, they will recommend a ranch that does. Association ranches work together in a spirit of cooperation to insure that your next vacation is your best vacation!

Tags: frequently asked questions, Things to know about Dude Ranch Vacations, Travel agent advice
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Dude Ranchers' Association