All dude, or guest, ranches center around horseback riding, catering to those from city slickers to experienced riders. Many ranches offer other activities, such as fishing, hiking, boating, biking and swimming. Guests vary from singles to extended families, with many dude ranches offering youth programs for young buckaroos.
Single and Family Adventure Vacations
Dude ranches are known for their family-oriented, intimate environments, appealing to single travelers and families. Singles are easily included in group activities, whereas families benefit from quality time together in wholesome surroundings. Children thrive in the safe haven of ranch life, only mingling with staff and guests. Adults appreciate the many outdoor activities available at dude ranches as well as socializing.
Many lasting friendships are formed at guest ranches, where the love of horses and the outdoors brings people together from all walks of life. Dude ranches draw repeat visitors for the camaraderie and wholesome lifestyle they offer.
When to Take a Dude Ranch Vacation
Many Northwest guest ranches are open year round, but their busiest season is usually summertime. The peak summer season is from mid-June through mid-August. Early reservations and bookings are encouraged for those taking dude ranch vacations during the summer. Space can be at a premium since ranches are small in comparison to most resorts.
Summer at dude ranches brings a full scope of activities for adults and children, with many offering specialized youth programs. Adults-only programs are offered at some dude ranches in the spring or fall. Seasonal or holiday activities may be featured as well.
Ranch Vacations — Guest, Resort and Working Ranches
Dude ranches tend to reflect the personalities of their owners. Each one is unique, varying from homey to luxurious. Some dude ranches provide simple amenities and rustic accommodations while others surround guests in luxurious pampering. Most dude ranches are somewhere between the rustic and lavish.
Dude, or guest, ranches offer Western pleasure horseback riding as the central focus of the vacation. Guests ride with real cowboys and wranglers, learning riding tips and experiencing an adventurous and relaxed way of life. Other outdoor activities are offered — from swimming and fishing to hiking and biking.
Resort dude ranches tend to be the largest spreads, accommodating more guests. Western riding is still a central activity, but more resort-type adventures and amenities are offered. From yoga and massage to fly fishing and skeet shooting, resort ranches feature specialized activities. Accommodations are more luxurious and meals may be multi-course accompanied by wines.
Working dude ranches are more Spartan, appealing to those who want to really get in the thick of the action on dude ranches. Ranch guests at working ranches get first-hand experience at jobs from herding cattle from the back of a horse to grooming their horse. Guests at working dude ranches are usually included in the ranch family, sharing meals and sometimes bunkhouses.
Where to Take a Guest Ranch Vacation
Once the type of dude ranch has been determined, a destination can be chosen. The Dude Ranchers’ Association has more than 100 member ranches in the Western U.S. and Canada. The states offering the most ranches are Wyoming, Colorado, Montana and Arizona. Dude ranches are also found in Idaho, Washington and Oregon.
Most dude ranch guests travel by commercial airline and are picked up by ranch staff at the nearest airport. Some travelers arrive at the ranch by car, exploring other destinations along the way.
Dude Ranch Vacation Packages and Amenities
The idea of “all-inclusive” rates originated at dude ranches, where rooms, meals and activities are included in the Full American Plan. Most ranches include the riding program in their rates as well. There may be extra charges for riding lessons, alcoholic beverages, airport transfers, river rafting, pack trips and cattle drives. Discounted rates or “specials” are featured in the off-season of fall and spring.
With meals, lodging and many of the day’s activities included in rates, ranch vacations are a good value, making it easy to stay within a budget. Because of the high ratio of staff to guests, gratuities are usually added to the final bill and distributed to all employees. Rate cards for dude ranches should clearly state what is included and any additional charges that may apply.
Though dude ranches evoke memories of the wild West, many ranches offer modern amenities. Guests not only learn how to ride horses but also participate in activities like boating and fishing. Whether it’s a basic working ranch or a luxurious resort, dude ranches are known for their flavorful atmosphere, camaraderie and fun.
Susan Lynne Hamilton - Award-winning writer Susan Lynne Hamilton is the Topic Editor of Suite 101's Northwest U.S. travel section, showcasing its rich ...
