Adventure awaits when you book a vacation on dude ranches. It’s the original Western vacation, which is all-inclusive, but they’re individual and unique as the land they sit on.
Experience the unique beauty of the American West, try your hand at a day’s work, or indulge in modern luxuries set against the backdrop of picturesque mountains. We’ll break down the best of cattle ranches, traditional dude ranches, and the new luxury ranches so you can jump on this rising travel trend.
What Are Dude Ranches?
Dude Ranches originated on horseback. Ranchers showcased their property to visiting individuals and introduced them to Western hospitality in the most raw (and fitting) way: on the back of a horse. Checking into a ranch today means escaping the world of social media and pressure. Depending on where you book, you might sign up for various activities, but one common thread is the adventure that comes with it. The activities include horseback riding, hiking, fishing, swimming, zip-lining, white water rafting, rodeos, cattle drives, western dancing, and fine dining. Dude ranches offer vacation destinations perfect for every traveler, including solo travelers, multi-generational families, and couples. Immerse yourself into a new way of life and take a load off.
Dude ranches have an off-grid vibe and encourage guests to disconnect, making them a fantastic vacation for families looking to reconnect. They’re an all-encompassing escape, and most ranches welcome kids with specialty children’s programming for ages 2-17. These programs, designed for kids, teach life lessons in responsibility, hard work ethic, and accountability while including time for fun. It’s one of the most unique ways to vacation with your kids. Let them get their hands dirty.
What To Consider When Booking A Dude Ranch Vacation
Now that you know what a dude ranch vacation is, how do you pick the one that’s best for you? There are so many different options, and while they’re all located in the West, the locations vary from Wyoming to Colorado. That’s a big difference, and there’s a lot of information to sort through while researching dude ranches.
First, consider the time of year you’re traveling. With so many outdoor activities, the offerings vary depending on the time of year. Winter might include sled rides and horseback riding through the snow, while warmer months are perfect for ATV rides or gold panning. Most dude ranches are close to regional airports, but consider the weather as well if you’re driving in.
The Dude Ranchers’ Association was formed in 1926 and is a fabulous resource for vacation planning. Ranches undergo a vetting process to be included in the Association’s list of approved destinations. Look for their gold seal of approval when booking your dude ranch vacation.
1. Hunewill Circle “H” Guest Ranch
Just a stone’s throw from Yosemite National Park, the Hunewell Circle “H” Guest Ranch is in the beautiful mountainous Bridgeport Valley of California. It’s a family-owned ranch perfect for horseback riding fans. The ranch has over 180 horses and over 1,200 heads of cattle.
Imagine lush green meadows, perfect California weather, and mountainous peaks. Wake up to the sound of thundering horses each morning. Go trout fishing in the nearby East Walker River, dance the night away at family nights, and enjoy home-cooked meals in the dining room of the founder’s Victorian ranch house.
If you want to feel what it’s like to be a cowboy, visit during one of the ranch’s special cattle events. The fall cattle work packages, The Big Fall Cattle Gather, and the traditional Fall Cattle Drive will undoubtedly give you a glimpse into a cowboy’s life. The Hunewell ranch website says cowboy boots are required, and that’s how you know it’s a genuine experience.
2. Red Horse Mountain Ranch
If you’re looking for a screen-free family vacation, check out Red Horse Mountain Ranch, which has famous kids’ programs for ages three and up. The ranch sits on 560 acres in Idaho and accepts vacation reservations from May through October. Lodging is available for an exclusive sixty guests. Some Red Horse Mountain Ranch activities include kayaking, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Red Horse is famous for its kids program, which includes activities dedicated to little ones. Kids can learn to kayak, shoot a bow and arrow, ride a horse, go on bike rides, and test their skills in the shooting range. Professionals overlook the kid-friendly dude ranch activities. Parents are invited along or can enjoy their adventures.
3. Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle & Guest Ranch
Long ago, gold hunters found their treasure in Montana on the land where Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle & Guest Ranch now stands. Today, lucky guests can get lucky and see remnants of that gold rush. The ranch hosts only 3-7 guests at a time and keeps the daily activities flexible, so it’s the ultimate place to relax. Visit the ranch’s historical sites, take a three or 7-hour horseback ride on the trails, and assist with cattle. Their three guest cabins sit along Clear Creek and offer the perfect escape from the chaos of your typical work week.
4. Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch
Embark on an adventure when you check into New Mexico’s Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch. Geronimo promises spectacular scenery, delicious food, cozy cabins, and exploration. The ranch is unique because it sits in the heart of the Gila National Forest. Saddle up for family horseback riding and enjoy gorgeous views of pristine, untouched scenery. Guests can also fish, hike, or visit the 1,000-year-old archaeological sites near the ranch. The archaeological sites showcase old South West life with pit houses, cliff dwellings, pottery shards, and historic pictographs.
Cozy in one of the ranch’s cabins. Three to five-night stays are available from March through early November. The ranch hosts up to six guests at a time, making it a great, intimate dude ranch vacation.
5. Flathead Lake Lodge
Combine a lake vacation with a dude ranch vacation when you check into Flathead Lake Lodge, which sits on the shores of Flathead Lake in Bigfork, Montana. They welcome guests from mid-May through mid-October, so the weather cooperates for fun on recreational lake activities. All-inclusive activities include horseback riding, sailing, mountain biking, water recreation, live music, and a meadow steak fry. Families are welcome all summer, but the ranch has exclusive adult-only packages during the spring and fall. If you want an excursion from the resort, check out Glacier National Park, which is only 40 miles away.
6. Majestic Dude Ranch
Expectations are high with a name like Majestic Dude Ranch. With advertised amenities like luxury suites, cocktail parties, and a bottomless cookie jar, the Colorado ranch lives up to its name. Ranch adventures include white water rafting, skeet shooting, UTV tours, archery, mountain biking, and hiking. The ranch also offers guided tours to nearby Mesa Verde National Park. Check into spacious, large enough cabins for extended families or opt for a more intimate two-person suite. The ranch is all-inclusive, and children three and under are free.
7. Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch
Arizona’s Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch is an hour from the nearest city, so the open wilderness is easy to find. The remote location allows guests to reconnect with nature and discover the Old West. If you’re a more experienced horseback rider, you’ll love the trotting and loping in the desert washes that can’t be found at other dude ranches. The ranch sits at the foot of the Mohave desert and Hualapai mountains, making every ride gorgeous. At night, family fun reigns with roping and bullwhipping demonstrations from real cowboys. Plus, the Grand Canyon is a short day trip away from the ranch.
8. Kara Creek Ranch
Feel the heart and soul of a real cowboy living with a stay at Kara Creek Ranch in Wyoming. If you’re looking for a working ranch vacation to get dirty, this is the ranch for you. The ranch invites guests from May – October and sits on 70,000 acres. Spend the day as a cowboy, round up the cattle, drive them to summer grazing or winter pastures, learn how to repair and build fences, or attend local rodeos and events. At night, relax in one of the ranch’s quaint cabins. Guest stays are seven nights.
9. Vista Verde Ranch
Vista Verde Ranch defines itself as a luxury ranch experience. It is located north of Steamboat Springs, Colorado’s renowned ski resort town. Their upscale rustic accommodations and gourmet chef dining are the perfect way to unwind after a day of being a cowboy. The ranch has two seasons, December – March and June – October. Learn how to drive cattle, paddleboard, pan for gold, or enjoy the petting zoo with the kids. There are so many activities at Vista Verde Ranch that it’ll be hard to pick which you want to do. Their specialty kids programs are designed for ages six and up. Stick together as a family or split up for some quality adult time.
10. Three Bars Ranch
An authentic cowboy experience goes beyond the States. Three Bars Ranch offers adventure in the Canadian Rockies in beautiful British Columbia, between Banff and Glacier National Park. This area is famous for its breathtaking scenery. The ranch provides 6-night all-inclusive adventure packages. Horseback riding, rafting, shooting, and kids’ programs are offered throughout the day. One of the ranch’s unique offerings includes an equine photography workshop with renowned photographer Ryan Courson. Relax on your cabin’s front porch and discuss the day’s adventures as you unwind with a cocktail.