While the term ‘dude ranch’ usually brings to mind images of cowboys and cattle drives, dude ranches are actually all this and much more – especially when it comes to wellness experiences. In keeping with the belief that wellness starts from within, many DRA-accredited ranches offer a variety of rejuvenating activities and services in a lush oasis environment to give you “whole body” relief from the stress of modern life. Imagine enjoying a spa escape or a yoga class in some of the most spectacular areas in the country, from valleys complete with untouched Rocky Mountain backdrops to desert sunsets across the Southwest.
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. There are more than 100 DRA-accredited dude ranches in North America (two in Canada), all of which uphold the highest quality of services within the industry. No matter what type of getaway you’re in search of, there is the perfect dude ranch out there for you. Please see below for a sampling of DRA-accredited ranches that feature unique wellness experiences.
The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch
Located in Saratoga, Wyoming, The Trailhead Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is a place to feed and rejuvenate the soul in an environment where the indoor elements reflect the Western landscape of the ranch itself. Incorporating traditions of the American West with indigenous ingredients to create a truly sensory experience, a day at The Trailhead Spa will quench your restorative needs just as the stunning natural landscape quenches your adventurous side. Brush Creek Ranch also offers a number of fitness and wellness programs and activities, including yoga and personal training.
If there was one phrase to capture Echo Valley’s wellness philosophy, it would be “Sabai Sabai,” a Thai term used to describe balanced harmony of mental, physical and spiritual health and wellbeing. Everything at this destination wellness resort and luxury spa in British Columbia sets the stage for the perfect wellness retreat. At Echo Valley, the water you drink is taken from one of the five natural springs located on the ranch. Echo Valley also offers two types of spa experiences: a Thai-style spa offering a range of authentic Thai therapies and a Western-style spa offering contemporary aesthetic services.
Every year, Diamond D Ranch in Stanley, Idaho hosts an annual weeklong health retreat to soothe the soul and inspire a healthier life. Guests connect with supportive professionals who teach resilience in the modern world and explore new activities while nourishing the body, mind and spirit such as yoga, Pilates, hiking, trail running, massages, horseback riding and much more. While at the ranch, guests enjoy superb accommodations and facilities, delicious cuisine, and the breathtaking Salmon River Mountains. This year’s health retreat is TBD but more information will be available soon.
For more information about these ranches or any of the other ranches in The Dude Ranchers’ Association please call 866-399-2339 or visit www.duderanch.org.
