Guest Testimonial of the Week

Flying E Ranch, Arizona...This place is pure magic. There aren't words to describe how much fun and relaxing this place is, yet it caters to every whim of a seasoned traveler. The hospitality will rival the Four Seasons, yet the atmosphere is so laid back that it's just what the doctor ordered for the couple of family that wants to get away to a time when things were more friendly and more simple. The horses!! OMG! Not a bad one in the bunch! And my friend who has come 13 times said she's always amazed that they manage to match you with the perfect horse for your personality. And if you want to try anoter horse, you're given the opportunity every single time you ride. If you go on one ranch vacation in your life, let it be here. The accomodations are squeaky clean but you still feel you can put your feet up. If you're looking for beautiful scenery, wonderful horses, and a friendly, accomodating staff continually at your beck and call, this is your next vacation. Just promise to say Kristin sent you when you check in! :-)

Happy New Year to All!!

From all of us at the DRA...

"We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called "Opportunity" and its first chapter is New Year's Day."
Edith Lovejoy Pierce

May you have a safe, happy and adventurous New Year!

Join the Party on the Pavilion at Smith Fork Ranch!

Announcing some exciting dining changes for 2010!
Smith Fork is announcing two new family-style dining events! Join us this summer to experience "SFR Fiesta Night" and "Tour of Italy Night" on our romantic pavilion!

"SFR Fiesta Night" will be a lively atmosphere featuring gourmet Spanish cuisine, mariachi music, and custom-blended margaritas. What about the kids? Well, what's a fiesta without a pinata? Bring the camera for some after-dinner candy-smashing fun!

Dine in the Venetian-style ambience of our "Tour of Italy" night! Enjoy specialty homemade pastas and sauces from secret family recipes never-before-seen outside of Italy. Of course, our amazing wine cellar has been updated with a number of incredible Italian wine selections for a truly cosmopolitan experience!

December 31st, 2009 New Year's Eve! Dude Ranch Murder Mystery games!

Sundance Trail Ranch, Red Feather Lakes Colorado...
Get away and recharge your batteries for this "all evening" New Year's Eve Murder Mystery affair - the game starting with appetizers and solved about midnight.
Champagne Toast at midnight followed by a Morning brunch and a morning or early afternoon horseback ride...
Or come make it a week-end get-away!

Dan & Ellen Morin and the gang at Sundance Trail Ranch.
More details

Cowgirl up! Arkansas Dude Ranch Hosts ‘Women’s Weekend’

(EMAILWIRE.COM, December 17, 2009 ) JASPER, Ark. – In the northwestern corner of Arkansas, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is quietly etched into the Ozarks, offering the perfect backdrop for leisurely horseback rides, hiking, rock climbing and soaking in nature’s beauty. When guests are done with their fun for the day, they retire to their luxury log cabins after being served mouthwatering meals. Read More...

Ski at C Lazy U Ranch This Winter

The C Lazy U Ranch's "One Stop Shop" Winter Wonderland just keeps getting better and better, and don't forget that KIDS STAY FREE this season (with restrictions).

We've expanded our ski terrain by 300% so now there's over 400 acres of skiable terrain.

Our private snow cat skiing gives our skiers access to six green groomed ‘beginner’ trails, eight blue intermediate runs, and boundless backcountry skiing for advanced levels, complete with bowls, chutes and tree shots. And no sitting on cold chair lifts here – our private snowcat skiing definitely sets us apart - after enjoying hot cocoa in our warming huts, our skiers ride in ‘high country’ style within the sheltered comfort of our snowcats right back up the mountain. We offer a morning and an afternoon session – three hours each – and our trained ski instructors can help beginners to advanced skiers progress to new heights! The cost of rentals and ski lessons are available at an additional cost. Contact us for more details.

Book your winter vacation now before it's too late! (A three-night minimum is required.) Our reservationists are standing by to take your call - why not treat your family to private cat skiing this season?!
They'll thank you for it!970-887-3344

Rowse 1+1 Ranch Award

Rowse's 1+1 Ranch in Nebraska Sandhills is awarded "The Best US Cowboy Experience" by Rustic Vacations.

We are extremely honored to share this award with our guests. Our guests come to have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams of being a cowboy and riding the range. Guests leave behind noise, crowds, traffic and the hasslte of everyday life to experience their vision of the Old West that still exists, cattle drives, sorting pairs, branding, roundups and roping. Generations of ranching traditions are very much a part of the Rowse family. Come ride with the 1+1 ranch and enjoy the Warm Western Hospitality. www.1plus1ranch.com

Dude Ranch Kids Qualify for USA Track & Field National Junior Olympics

The Van Berkum family of the Rainbow Trout Ranch in Antonito, Colorado is very proud of Caroline (9+) and Derek (8) Van Berkum who both qualified for the USA Track & Field (USATF) National Junior Olympics to be held in Reno, NV, December 12th, 2009. Caroline qualified individually and Derek qualified individually as well as with the team.

For the 2nd straight year the Penguin Track Club is going to the USATF National Junior Olympics Cross Country Championships. The club qualified a bantam boys cross country team and 4 individual runners in various other classifications at the Regional Meet in El Paso, TX. Each member of the club has put a great deal of energy and hard work into qualifying. These young athletes have been practicing 5 to 6 days a week for the last 6 weeks under the watchful eye of Coach Peter De La Cerda.”

Great job Caroline and Derek! Good luck in Reno!!

Guest ranching became a tradition for the Van Berkum family at the Rainbow Trout Ranch. Rainbow Trout Ranch is the perfect Colorado dude ranch for adults, families, singles, couples, groups and anyone else who wants a western getaway. Offering exceptional horseback riding, superb Colorado fly fishing, awesome children’s programs and a fun teen program, trapshooting, swimming, day trips to Taos, white water rafting and the chance to ride America’s highest and longest narrow-gauge steam train, the ranch brings timeless simpler pleasures to life all in a spectacular setting.

Vista Verde selected as "Best Resort Hotels in the World"

Just wanted to share this article with you...Vista Verde Guest Ranch was selected as one of the "Best Resort Hotels in the World" by the travel blog at www.holidayslangkawi.com
Read more...

ADULTS ONLY WEEK: September 5-11, 2010

The Red Rock Ranch, info@theredrockranch.com www.theredrockranch.com

Book your Adult Only vacation now that the kids are back in school. We have a small ranch setting so these spaces will fill up. Please contact me if I can answer any questions.

A testimonial from a past guest.

Please let your staff know how much we appreciated the top notch service they gave us all week; happily accommodating all sorts of things from peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to changes in rides! The most impressive thing to me was that you and your staff seemed genuinely happy to serve us. Not that I would have expected anything else but, I never felt the least bit patronized. Nor did I ever get a hint that all of the work you did for us was ever done begrudgingly. To be frank, this has not been my experience at other places. Certainly not on the whole scale version we received at the ranch! Truly a unique and special pleasure. I'm looking forward to my next visit.

Come See us at the NFR

Don’t Forget to come see us at the NFR. Stop by our booth for brochures from our many great dude ranches or pick up a free directory at the DRA Booth in the Pro-Rodeo Zone. We hope to see you at the Thomas Mac Arena.

Happy Thanksgiving

We would like to wish you and your family the safest and happiest of Thanksgivings!

"Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds. ~Theodore Roosevelt

Song of the Year Nomination...

Bryan Ragsdale, dude ranch entertainer and songwriter, has been recognized by the Independent Singer Songwriters Association for his song "Modern Day Mountain Man." Bryan's song has been nominated for Country Song of the Year by the Independent Singer Songwriters Association. It is a huge honor and he needs you help. You can go to www.issa-music.org to vote for Mountain Man or the song of your choosing. Please pass this on to all your friends, family, folks you don't know....help me put the Rocky Mountains back into mainstream music. Good Luck Bryan!!

The DRA will be at the NFR

The DRA will once again have a booth at the Thomas Mac Arena for this year's National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. The DRA and many of our fine ranches will be promoting dude ranch vacations at the 10 day show, December 3 - 12th 2009! Stop by and see us if you are in the ProRodeo Zone at the Thomas Mac!

Tanque Verde Family Dude Ranch by Travel Savvy Mom

This is a great article about Tanque Verde Guest Ranch that I thought I would share with you...


I grew up in Arizona, with two summers of horseback riding camp (Western style). So the idea of getting my kids on horses is appealing. So is the idea of a dude ranch, where you not only ride horses several times a day, but someone else cooks for you and watches your kids. Read more...

Have Fun In The Snow This Winter

Thinking about a winter escape...here are a few to think about!

Come experience wintertime in Wyoming at the Heart Six Ranch! Snowmobile through fluffy white snow in Yellowstone National Park or the Continental Divide. For those who prefer the quiet of nature, you can ski or snowshoe through our groomed trails. A great meal and a cozy cabin await you at the end of your day.
If snowmobiling doesn’t strike your interest, we’ve got miles of groomed trails for you to explore by cross country skis or snowshoes. Both are available for rental or you can bring your own. This is a quiet backwoods experience with great views of the Buffalo Valley, perfect for both young and old alike.
Cozy log cabins await you at the end of your day. All of our rooms are modern, carpeted, and nicely decorated. Many of the cabins have fireplaces or wood-burning stoves and wonderful views. Finish off your evening by curling up by the lodge fire place with a good book or a loved one.
To start planning your next holiday get away, you can visit us on the web at www.heartsix.com, or call (307) 543-2477.

The Home Ranch transforms into a ski lodge during the winter months. We offer cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, winter horseback riding and tubing on the ranch. As an Orvis endorsed lodge, fly fishing is always an option as well. The Yampa river in Steamboat has open water all winter long or try your luck on the Elk before it blows out in March.
With 25 km of groomed trail on the ranch and endless miles of off ranch powder you are bound to find the perfect spot. You may downhill ski in nearby Steamboat Springs. We use local outfitters for snowmobiling and dog sledding.
If all these sports seem too exhasting, treat yourself to the less strenuous activities we offer. Indulge yourself with a cup of tea in front of the fireplace, browse through our library with its comfy couches, soak in the private hot tub on you cabin porch, or melt into a massage. And if shopping is what you’re after, you’ll enjoy the ranch’s Mustang Mercantile or the bustling town of Steamboat.

Sleigh Ride in Northern Idaho at the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch

During the winter season here at Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, we are busy doing sleigh rides for our guests. We have 5 teams of draft horses who take up to 150 people per day on our 2 mile loop route. After the ride, guests can warm up by the fire inside the lodge with hot coco and popcorn. Many of our guests have a tradition to return each year for their family winter outing. We also offer a romantic couples rides pulled by one of our draft horses. This winter magic has cast its spell and set the stage for many marriage proposals. For more information about the sleigh rides go to the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch website.

Christmas is Coming....

The Christmas holiday is a magical time spent with friends and family celebrating a season of cheer! A dude ranch makes a perfect location for making special holiday memories. Here are just a few highlights from a few of our ranches that offer some fun filled holiday cheer!


Vista Verde is a dude ranch near Steamboat Springs that welcomes families in winter as well as summer, and especially puts out the welcome mat during the holidays. Accommodation includes lodge rooms with private balcony, and luxury log cabins with woodstove and hot tub. Winter activities include: cross-country skiing and snowshoeing; horse riding and sleigh-rides; programs for kids and teens; off-ranch activities such as dog-sledding, or skiing at top-rated Steamboat ski resort. Many activities are included in packages, as are three meals daily. For the Christmas holidays, special activities include: going out on cross country skis to cut a Christmas tree, making homemade decorations, taking the horse drawn sleigh (with lots of sleigh bells!) to go caroling at the neighbor’s house, and of course a Christmas Day Feast. And after that-- a "Progressive Dinner" around the ranch, on skis and sleigh. Visit the Vista Verde Ranch site for more infomation.

Ho, Ho, Holidays! Hidden Meadow Ranch is getting out the twinkle lights and searching for the perfect Christmas tree for the Ranch House (though some of us have been removed from the selection committee due to extreme "Charlie Brown" tree incidents)! We have done our snow dance, and Santa is planning his visit to bring loads of gifts. And our staff is polishing its annual performance of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas," which gets better every year! New Year's Eve will rev it up with live entertainment and fabulous cuisine, as usual. Don't miss the best, most family-oriented get-together spot in the West for those holiday memories!

At the Home Ranch, sleigh rides, horseback riding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing and adventures in Steamboat Springs await those willing to brave the crowds and come west for a dude ranch vacation at Christmas. The Home Ranch has a long history of hosting families for Christmas and New Years and this year is no exception. The Home Ranch will open for the winter December 18, 2009. During the holiday season we ask for a five night stay. Most folks typically return home after Christmas on the 26th or 27th. This allow new folks to join us for the New Year beginning the 26th or 27th and stay through the 2nd of January.

New DRA Ranch Members

Membership in the Dude Ranchers' Association is not automatic. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two year inspection and approval process. It includes an application fee, a detailed written application, references from former guests, an appearance before the board of directors and on-site inspections during operations. These inspections focus on safety, livestock management and hospitality industry standards for all aspects of the ranch. Approximately 70% of the ranches that apply meet the high standards of the association and go on to become members.

Once accepted, ranches go through a year of probationary membership during which they undergo a second on-site inspection. Only after a satisfactory second inspection are they admitted to full membership. Once a full member, all ranches are accredited every five years.

At the 2009 Fall Board of Directors Meeting, there were seven ranches accepted on probationary status. The following ranches are in the first year of our two year application process. They are:
Hidden Meadow Guest Ranch, Arizona
4UR Ranch, Colorado
Zapata Ranch, Colorado
Lonesome Spur Ranch, Montana
Lazy E-L Ranch, Montana
K Diamond K Ranch, Washington
Red Reflet Guest Ranch, Wyoming

There were also seven new ranches accepted for full membership into the DRA. They are:
Rowse’s 1+1 Ranch, Nebraska
Red Horse Mountain Ranch, Idaho
Bar W Ranch, Montana
Covered Wagon Ranch, Montana
Geronimo Trails Ranch, New Mexico
Crossed Sabres Ranch, Wyoming
Rancho de los Caballeros, Arizona

The Dude Ranchers' Association has been preserving western ranch vacations by establishing and maintaining strict standards, while protecting the land and wildlife for over 80 years - We encourage you to “Ride the West with the Best!”

Vista Verde - Dude Ranch for the Holidays in Colorado

Check out this little article about the Vista Verde Ranch on About.com: Family Vacations

http://travelwithkids.about.com/od/christmasholidays/ss/happy_holidays_7.htm

Who's Cooking your Thanksgiving dinner?

Avoid the cold weather this winter season and spend Thanksgiving at one of these great Arizona Dude Ranches...Here is what just a few of our ranches offer for the Holiday season!

Crisp mountain air and a gourmet Thanksgiving dinner – that's what it's all about at Hidden Meadow Ranch. Our culinary team is cooking up a real feast, including:
• Cider-glazed turkey with applewood-smoked bacon
• Maple bourbon-glazed ham
• Cornbread and sage dressing
• Roasted butternut squash soup
• Homemade pumpkin pie
• And much, much more.
You'll just gobble it up! And if you're staying at the Ranch, don't forget our famous "Leftovers in the Loft." It's a great evening social gathering with football and those creative leftovers you usually only get at home ... in our living room without the dishes!

Thanksgiving is our favorite holiday here at Rancho De La Osa. Good food, great wine and the opportunity to see old friends and make new ones is always a pleasure. In fact, we have a few seats left at our Thanksgiving feast. Pack up the family, invite your friends and spend your holiday with us! Don't forget to ask for our Thanksgiving Special --Book 4 Nights and receive the 5th Night Free. Rancho De La Osa was established as a guest ranch on Thanksgiving Day 1923. We will be celebrating our 86th Season on Thanksgiving!

At Grapevine Canyon Ranch we kick off the holiday season a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner, with tasty slices being carved off the turkeys, and all the traditional trimming - pies and cakes and over-eating. Christmas brings a festively decorated lodge, with stockings hanging off the fireplace mantel, a big Christmas tree inside, and a Christmas tree fashioned from a decorated century plant loaded with baskets of bird seed for the feathered friends outside. And along with all that eating? Great horseback rides in fabulous mountain country, the long ago haunt of the Chiricahua Apaches, through the trails of history and romance. Come visit us! e-mail info@gcranch.com

Snowmobiling at the Rich Ranch a Montana Guest Ranch

Visit North Fork Ranch at the Grand Opening of the Orvis Store in Cleveland!!

Karen May, owner of North Fork Ranch & Fishing Lodge, Orvis Endorsed, will have a table set up within the Orvis store in Woodmere, Ohio this weekend! This is their Grand Opening but far from it for North Fork... North Fork Ranch & Fishing Lodge will be celebrating their 25th year in 2010! Don't miss out! Stop in... visit with Karen...enjoy the Grand Opening of the Orvis Store in Cleveland, Ohio AND have the chance to register & win a Free Helios Rod along with Two Nights Lodging at North Fork Ranch & Fishing Lodge! Karen will have raffle tickets available at her table for you to enter the contest. Please stop by and visit her.
You will find the store hours and when Karen will be there, as well as the store location below:

Friday, Nov. 6th 10am-4pm
Saturday, Nov. 7th 10am-4pm
Sunday, Nov. 8th 12pm-3pm

Orvis Cleveland
28839 Chagrin Boulevard
Woodmere, OH 44122

Packaged valued at over $1,200.00

**Contest Rules: Minimum three nights lodging for one. Tax, gratuity, meals, additional people, guide & rod fee are extra. Only eligible to win by registering at the Orvis Grand Opening in Cleveland, Ohio**

Old-fashioned Holiday Events at an Historic Ranch

Experience old-fashioned holidays at Sylvan Dale Ranch! Hop on a horse-drawn hayride, then relax & feast on a traditional Thanksgiving Day buffet, served by "pilgrims." Have a family reunion with their "More Than Just Pumpkin Pie Weekend Special," including meals, lodging, horseback riding, hoe-down, sing-along, butter-making, game room, & hot tub! Get into the Christmas spirit with "Candlelight & Carols" on December 23rd, featuring sumptuous buffet, home-baked desserts, and festive music by Loveland Chorale Society.

www.SylvanDale.com
ranch@sylvandale.com
Toll-free 877-667-3999

10 Surprising Things to Do at a Dude Ranch

Does “dude ranch” conjure images of office workers doffing their Dockers in favor of denim? Do you envision time in the saddle, or sleeping under the stars, and think it might be fun for a day or two … but you’re not sure about an entire vacation?

There’s good news for travelers who would like a taste of the dude ranch experience blended with a heaping serving of other vacation-type activities. Today’s dude ranches cater to a diverse crowd – from families to couples to singles – with activities, attractions and services that travel far beyond the trail.

“While dude ranches still provide that one-of-a-kind ‘cowboy-style’ vacation you can’t find anywhere else, many have also expanded their offerings to appeal to the diverse and discriminating tastes of today’s traveler,” says Colleen Hodson of the Dude Ranchers’ Association, an organization that represents more than 100 dude ranches.

So if you’re considering a dude ranch vacation and would like to spend time out of the saddle, consider these 10 surprising things to do on today’s dude ranches:

1. Get a massage or spa treatment.

Hotels and resorts around the world have hopped on the spa bandwagon, spending millions to build lavish facilities or offer massage, salon and spa services. Many dude ranches now offer comparable services, like White Stallion Ranch in LOCATION, where guests can indulge in a massage.

2. Water ski.

Not all dude ranches are located in desert terrain. Ones like Wilderness Trails Ranch, which is located next to Vallecito Lake near Durango, Colorado, take full advantage of their waterfront setting. Guests can water ski, kneeboard or tube behind a tournament quality ski boat, or sail on a 24-foot Catalina.

3. Take a yoga class.

Many ranches that offer spa services also provide yoga classes and training. Before a long day in the saddle, guests can have a relaxing limbering-up session with certified trainers.

4. Indulge in a wine tasting.

Gourmet cuisine is gaining popularity at dude ranches, right alongside trail traditions like franks ‘n’ beans and strong coffee. Many ranches also offer wine tastings where guests can experience, savor and learn about different varietals.

5. Get married.

Picturesque settings, wide open spaces and top-notch amenities draw thousands of brides-to-be and their grooms to dude ranches each year. Some dude ranches even offer personal wedding planners to assist couples in planning every facet of their special day – a leading-edge service you would expect to find in the finest hotels or resorts. At Wilderness Trails, you can even rent the entire ranch for your event.

6. Catch a movie.

From 27-seat movie theaters to state-of-the art home theater equipment or simple, old-fashioned family-style viewing on a big-screen TV, dude ranches are equipped to show recently released films.

7. Work on your tennis serve.

Recognizing that your craving for sport might exceed chasing down an errant calf, some dude ranches like Paradise Ranch in LOCATION offer other sporting opportunities, such as lighted tennis courts.

8. Surf the Internet.

Demand for high-speed, wireless Internet access is high among both leisure and business travelers. Many dude ranches are in step with the times and offer guests free Internet access. Some may provide access only in guestrooms, while others feature access in some public areas as well.

9. Perform in a talent show.

Friendly competition can be found in many forms on dude ranches, from roping contests to talent shows. If lassoing a speeding calf isn’t your forte, you can sing, tap or joke your way to local stardom in a talent show.


10. Chase a chicken.

Immortalized on the TV reality show “Girl Meets Cowboy,” the chicken chase at Paradise Ranch pits man, woman or child against fowl. Several chickens are loosed in a pen and the human competitors must try to chase them down. No chickens are harmed in the competition and the activity is unusual fun for the other two-legged participants as well. To date, the score tally remains in favor of the chickens.

To learn more about a dude ranch vacation, visit www.duderanch.org.

Guest Testimonial of the Week

In 2004 we searched the web for weeks looking for a ranch where we could horseback ride in the snow; that is where we started. What we found was the most wonderful vacation experience of our lives at Vista Verde in Colorado. We had loved cruises in the past because of all the activities, food and mostly the individual attention. Nothing compares to the experience we received at VV. An all inclusive vacation with amazing staff, accomodations and activities was unbelievable! We returned for the next three years and each year was better than the last. We are so looking forward to 2010 because even more changes have been made including an indoor riding arena. Vista Verde is the best kept secret for a wonderful vacation (always winter for us with lots of snow). Age is not an issue with guests from all over the world from kids to 80 year olds.

Say Adios to "Old Man Winter"

The Farmers Almanac predicts this winter will be “especially harsh” in the Northern climes. That forecast, along with expectations of a continuing economic recovery make it advisable to firm up travel plans now. Reserve a spot to escape the coming freeze, somewhere perhaps like the sun drenched deserts of Arizona or the warm, enchanting lands of New Mexico.

The American Southwest is one of the sunniest spots in the country. It’s also the locale of numerous Western dude ranches, 12 of them proud members of The Dude Ranchers’ Association. The organization has kept the standards for the industry high since its inception in1926. A reservation at a ”DRA” member ranch comes with the guarantee of an authentic, quality, experience. Keeping travelers’ budget, preferred activities, and desired level of service in mind, DRA staffers steer vacationers to ranches best suited for them.

Plenty of Southwest dude ranches offer the same resort-like amenities and services of other popular “snowbird” destinations. What guests won’t find are added charges or daily resort fees. Instead, dude Ranches operate on the American plan. Lodging, activities and delicious, hearty meals are included in one “no-hassle” rate, a guarantee touted by Arizona’s Grapevine Canyon Ranch for their 2010 rates. It’s an upfront, straightforward policy, packaging accommodations, riding, all meals, even taxes and gratuities in one rate. Rates vary by season, with some of the lowest rates in January and February. The no-hassle rate starts at just $178 per person per day. Once the land of Dragoons and Apaches, there are still remnants of primitive Indian villages on ranch property and wild grapevines still flourish in the canyon. Located between Tucson and Tombstone, the working ranch provides an ultimate immersion into the Cowboy life of the Old West with the exception of lodging and meals. No bunkhouses and beans for Grapevine guests. Instead, guests retreat to cool, private casitas and feast on homemade meals made from “scratch."

In Southwest New Mexico’s pristine Gila National Forest, guests of Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch escape the cold and the frantic pace of modern society. Eighty-five miles from the nearest stoplight, solitude is the ranch mantra. The ranch accommodates only 15 guests at a time. Riding the trails, visitors may glimpse elk, wild turkey, even a mountain lion but rarely other people. Not a resort type guest ranch, visitors may add a spa experience at the Sierra Grande Lodge and Spa in nearby Truth or Consequences. Here, ranch guests are offered a 10% discount off all services. And many do choose to soak for a day or two in the spa’s geothermal, natural springs.

Ranches more like resorts are found near Tucson. Both the White Stallion Ranch and Tanque Verde Ranch, come with luxurious pools, spas, and tennis courts. The White Stallion offers a full calendar of special events: horse and riding seminars, cowgirl camps, and packages co-sponsored by Elderhostel. At the Tanque Verde there are special pack trips through December and a mountain bike adventure for serious pedalers.

Can’t get much further south in Arizona than DRA dude ranch resort; The Circle Z Ranch, straddling the border, minutes from Mexico. The ranch is recognized worldwide as a prime destination for “birders.” In the nearby Patagonia-Sonoita Nature Reserve, riders often glimpse vermillion fly catchers and other rare birds. First class amenities include an all-weather tennis court and heated pool. Colorful adobe cottages and meals served on the lodge patio entertain guests with panoramic views of the mountains and desert.

Live the American Dream Vacation at the West’s Best Dude Ranches

At the more than 100 dude ranches that make up The Dude Ranchers’ Association, guests are sure to find the All-American Western vacation they have been dreaming of—days spent in the saddle, enjoying stunning scenery and breathing fresh country air, and evenings enjoying tasty down-home cooking and ranch entertainment. Today, as it did over a century ago, the western dude ranch experience offers relief for both the body and spirit of those seeking refuge from the pressures and routine of modern life.

Dude ranch vacations are based on a lifestyle that stretches back more than a century. By the end of the 1800s, most of the American West had been explored and the stories of its natural wonders had spread throughout the Eastern portion of the country as well as Europe. Lured by the promise of awesome beauty, a spirit of romance and adventure, and the honest simplicity of the western way of life, travelers headed west in search of a respite from the crowded, noisy squalor of fast-paced cities.

Most dude ranch guests are looking for that same experience today—a chance to rejuvenate their souls and refresh their spirits. And with the impressive array of activities found at these dude ranches, everyone—Mom, Dad, kids, grandparents, couples or singles—can find something that interests them.

Dude ranches are ideal places for kids and families to re-discover each other. Without the typical distractions of TV, phones, computers and electronic games, families spend time together, riding, hiking, playing games or simply talking. And while dude ranches are a popular destination for families, couples, singles and groups of all types love this unique traveling option as well. Most ranches offer a wide variety of activities such as horseback riding, fly fishing, river rafting, swimming pools, children’s programs, cattle drives, cookouts, line dancing and plain relaxing on the porch swing, so everyone in a group is sure to find something that appeals to them. And since the cooking, cleaning and planning is all taken care of, everyone enjoys a true vacation.

Since 1926 The Dude Ranchers' Association has been helping folks find quality ranch vacations by establishing and enforcing high standards for its members. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two-year inspection and approval process, including a close review of their application, a review of references from former guests, an appearance before the board of directors and on-site inspections during actual dude ranch operations. Typically, only 70% of the ranches that apply meet the high standards of the Association. When guests book a vacation at a Dude Ranchers' Association member ranch, they can be assured that it is actually a ranch and not just a hotel with horses.

The Dude Ranchers’ Association's original membership of 35 ranches from the Yellowstone area has now grown to 100-plus member ranches in 13 western states and 2 Canadian provinces. In spite of this growth, the Association today remains dedicated to preserving the beauty, natural resources, and the original western ranch experiences that attracted the first visitors.

Now is the time to take advantage of shoulder-season discounts. For more information about the unique experience of a dude ranch vacation or to request a brochure, call 1-866-399-2339 or visit www.duderanch.org.

Guest Testimonial of the Week

Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch
We've just returned from the trip of a lifetime at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch in New Mexico. The horses, meals, trail rides and after dinner activities were more wonderful than we could have imagined. The Esterly family are warm, wonderful people who have worked very hard to make you not want to leave. This is not a dude ranch - it's a "trip back in time" to wonderful rides over breathtaking scenery all day and delicious meals and fun around the campfire at night. You won't find any better ranch to visit. 5 Stars to Geronimo Trail. Bill & Barb Jordan - Westerville,OH

Escape to the Southwest This Winter!

The Farmers Almanac predicts this winter will be “especially harsh” in the Northern climes. That forecast, along with expectations of a continuing economic recovery make it advisable to firm up travel plans now. Reserve a spot to escape the coming freeze, somewhere perhaps like the sun drenched deserts of Arizona or the warm, enchanting lands of New Mexico.

The American Southwest is one of the sunniest spots in the country. It’s also the locale of numerous Western dude ranches, 12 of them proud members of The Dude Ranchers’ Association. The organization has kept the standards for the industry high since its inception in 1926. A reservation at a ”DRA” member ranch comes with the guarantee of an authentic, quality, experience. Keeping travelers’ budget, preferred activities, and desired level of service in mind, DRA staffers steer vacationers to ranches best suited for them.

Plenty of Southwest dude ranches offer the same resort-like amenities and services of other popular “snowbird” destinations. What guests won’t find are added charges or daily resort fees. Instead, dude Ranches operate on the American plan. Lodging, activities and delicious, hearty meals are included in one “no-hassle” rate, a guarantee touted by Arizona’s Grapevine Canyon Ranch for their 2010 rates. It’s an upfront, straightforward policy, packaging accommodations, riding, all meals, even taxes and gratuities in one rate. Rates vary by season, with some of the lowest rates in January and February. The no-hassle rate starts at just $178 per person per day. Once the land of Dragoons and Apaches, there are still remnants of primitive Indian villages on ranch property and wild grapevines still flourish in the canyon. Located between Tucson and Tombstone, the working ranch provides ultimate immersion into the Cowboy life of the Old West with the exception of lodging and meals. No bunkhouses and beans for “Grapevine guests. Instead, guests retreat to cool, private casitas and feast on homemade meals made from “scratch.

In Southwest New Mexico’s pristine Gila National Forest, guests of Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch escape the cold and the frantic pace of modern society. Eighty-five miles from the nearest stoplight, solitude is the ranch mantra. The ranch accommodates only 15 guests at a time. Riding the trails, visitors may glimpse elk, wild turkey, even a mountain lion but rarely other people. Not a resort type guest ranch, visitors may add a spa experience at the Sierra Grande Lodge and Spa in nearby Truth or Consequences. Here, ranch guests are offered a 10% discount off all services. And many do choose to soak for a day or two in the spa’s geothermal, natural springs.

Ranches more like resorts are found near Tucson. Both the White Stallion Ranch and Tanque Verde Ranch, come with luxurious pools, spas, and tennis courts. The White Stallion offers a full calendar of special events -horse and riding seminars, cowgirl camps, and packages co-sponsored by Elderhostel. At the Tanque Verde there are special pack trips through December and a mountain bike adventure for serious pedalers.

Can’t get much further south in Arizona than DRA dude ranch resort, The Circle Z Ranch, straddling the border, minutes from Mexico. The ranch is recognized worldwide as a prime destination for “birders.” In the nearby Patagonia-Sonoita Nature Reserve, riders often glimpse vermillion fly catchers and other rare birds. First class amenities include an all-weather tennis court and heated pool. Colorful adobe cottages and meals served on the lodge patio entertain guests with panoramic views of the mountains and desert.

Covered Wagon Ranch

Guest Testimonial of the Week

My family has been coming to the Flying A since 1997...in all, we've spent at least 14 weeks with Deb and Keith (more than once we've visited two weeks in one year!) They have a fantastic herd of horses and they always pick the perfect horse for every guest. The remote location is part of the charm as we like to get away from the world and enjoy the fresh air and camaraderie that develops as a result of the small number of guests. The wranglers, led by Marcus, are very knowledgeable and safety-conscious and will take you on trails during the week that will take your breath away. You won't see the same trail twice (unless, like us, you have favorite trails and request a repeat visit!) Moose, elk, mule deer, sandhill cranes, antelope, bald eagles and more await you and your camera. Sunsets, rainbows and more stars than you can imagine await you! The weather is perfect for riding...cool at night and pleasant during the day. If you go in June, you'll see the babies as they are born and in September, the changing colors of the leaves on the aspens are amazing. The terrain varies and you can see open vistas, mountains, lakes with the reflection of the clouds and the grazing horses and wooded areas...it just depends on where you go. There are all-day rides with a picnic lunch or half-day rides with amazing luncheons in the lodge. If you don't ride, then the hiking and fly fishing should keep you busy. After dinner, there are activities like horseshoes, poker, darts, movies, games or...since you've had a busy day and tomorrow brings more of the same...a comfortable bed and a good book. Or, you could spend a few minutes and download the photos that you took during the day and share them with your friends and family!! Overall, this is a most relaxing vacation and we can't recommend it more highly...adventure during the day and luxury in the evening....a perfect combination. Montclair, NJ

12th Annual Home Ranch Canadian Sport Horse Sale

12th Annual Home Ranch Canadian Sport Horse Sale will be held September 19, 2009 at the Home Ranch in Clark, Colorado. There will be 30 Weanlings At Auction!

Please contact Johnny Fisher for more information! Visit www.homeranch.com or call 970-879-1780

Top 5 Kid Friendly US Destinations

Just found this article posted on the Southern California Travel Blog and thought I would share it with you!

Top 5 Kid Friendly US Destinations

Guest Testimonial of the Week

Folks email the DRA office daily looking for their next dude ranch vacation...and occasionally they write back to "thank us" for a great experience.

Thank you very much for your directory and help in assisting me with selecting a great dude ranch for August 2009. We returned this past Sunday from the Vee Bar Guest Ranch near Laramie, WY and had a wonderful time! It was my first dude ranch experience and found Wyoming to be a beautiful state. I have passed along your website to numerous employees and friends letting them know how easy it was to narrow down our search with your directory and how helpful you were. Thank you again and I hope to return to the Vee Bar next year. The Cole family and staff made my sister and I feel very welcomed and comfortable. Elaine from PA!

The 84th Annual Dude Ranchers' Convention

The Dude Ranchers' Association 84th Annual Convention will be held at the Crowne Plaza in Billings, Montana February 2nd - 6th, 2010.

Convention Highlights!

Largest attended DRA Event of the Year. This year registration is on Tuesday, with the event ending Saturday morning, leaving all attendees time to travel home for Super Bowl Sunday!!! This 3 day event will include the following activities:

Build lasting relationships with all DRA Members!
Casino Night
Seminars & Round-Table Discussions
Marketing Tips & Trends
State of the Association Address
Horse Safety Courses
The BS Show & More Entertainment
20+ Vendors
Food, Family, Friends & FUN!
Annual Educational Trust Banquet & Auction
Call the DRA Office at (866) 399-2339 For Registration and for more Information

The 63 Ranch Video

New Release of "The Bar BC Chronicle"

“Conversations in building a real western experience”

An oral history of the Bar BC Ranch Jackson Hole Wyoming

By Renee Howard Smelker

To Purchase a copy please contact Casey Morton  (307) 733-0466 or email
amorton@bresnan.net

Here is the Book's Forward...

Against the stunning backdrop of the Teton Range, the story of dude ranching in Jackson Hole unfolds. Dudes came from outside the West and sought to hire accommodations, horses, and guiding and hunting services from local ranchers. Early visitors were often attracted to this remote country through Hollywood westerns, dime novels, and advertisements by railroads that fostered a sense of romance about this part of America. They visited the West seeking adventure, their notion of the Wild West, and a glimpse of that romantic American hero, the cowboy.

In Jackson Hole, dude ranching began in early years of the twentieth century. One of the most famous and beloved dude ranches was the Bar BC. It was founded in 1912 by Struthers Burt and Dr. Horace Carncross, both easterners and pioneers in the dude business. The location of the Bar BC was ideal. It was near the Snake River which provided water and excellent fishing. It was nestled below a bench beneath the Grand Teton which provided privacy for the ranch but rewarded its dudes with spectacular views of the Teton Range. Untouched lands and wild animals surrounded the ranch.

Burt and Carncross ran a successful and popular dude ranch. The Bar BC offered its guests an informal lifestyle and a family atmosphere. Dress was casual. Dudes favored horseback-riding, pack trips, hunting, and fishing. They enjoyed dances and dude rodeos. By the late 1920s, the heyday of dude ranching, the Bar BC was the best known dude ranch in Jackson Hole.

The later years of the Bar BC were directed by Irving Corse and Bill Howard. In 1937, Burt sold his interest in the Bar BC to then partner Irv Corse in order to devote himself to writing. Corse had come to the ranch as a truck driver in the early 1920s, and eventually became the foreman and then a partner in the ranch. Howard began work as a wrangler at the Bar BC in 1922 and became the foreman seven years later.

Letters between Irving Corse and Bill Howard tell the story of the Bar BC in the years after Burt and Dr. Carncross operated the ranch, spanning the time from 1929, after Carncross’ death, to 1942, when Howard left the ranch. They were compiled by Bill Howard’s daughter, Renee Howard Smelker, who spent most of her youth at the Bar BC Ranch where both of her parents worked for about 20 years. Smelker’s notes, drawn from her memory, supplement the letters and provide local color.

Interestingly the letters provide a glimpse into the operations side of a dude ranch rather than the fun and romance of the dude’s life. Through the years of correspondence chronicled in the book, a picture of the routines and concerns of maintaining a dude ranch, which also ran a cattle operation on the side, becomes clear. A sense of the challenges of work in the isolated and harsh environment of Jackson Hole and in a changing economy emerges, as does a feel for life in the valley and the importance of neighbors and friends. The tale is all the more compelling because it is told by the people who lived it.

The Bar BC Ranch holds a special place in the hearts of many who have lived in or visited Jackson Hole. Because of the work of Struthers Burt, the ranch is one of the most historically significant dude ranches in the valley. Unfortunately it lies in ruins today. Through the correspondence presented in this work, the later history of the ranch is captured in print, providing an engaging story for those wanting a taste of Jackson Hole’s past.

Lokey Lytjen
Executive Director
Jackson Hole Historical Society and Museum

Saying Goodbye...

The Dude Ranch Industry has lost two of their “pioneers” this last month, DRA Hall of Famers, Leo Hargrave of Hargrave Land and Cattle Guest Ranch and Nancy Ferguson of Eaton’s Ranch. They truly helped make the industry what it is today. Please take a moment to tip your hat to these two great dude ranchers’ I know they will be missed by all..

Nancy Ferguson
Nancy Eaton Ferguson, 88, of Wolf, passed away at her residence on July 21, 2009. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be at Eatons’ Ranch at a later date. Born Feb. 28, 1921, in Sheridan to William and Patty (Alderson) Eaton, she attended Sheridan schools and was a graduate of Sheridan High School. She married Tommy Ferguson at Eatons’ Ranch on Sept. 5, 1942. She was the Sheridan Rodeo Queen in 1939, served on the Wolf Creek School Board, the Hospital Auxiliary Board, and was a member of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in Wyoming, the Book Review Club, and was Lady President of the Dude Ranchers’ Association. She was preceded in death by her husband; a brother, Billy Eaton; and a daughter, Judy Ferguson. Survivors include her children, Susan Van Allen, Patty Kaufmann, William Ferguson, and Thomas J. Ferguson, Jr.; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Memorials may benefit the Nancy Eaton Ferguson Sheridan WYO Rodeo Scholarship Fund, c/o First Interstate Bank, PO Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.
The service  will be held on September 19 at the ranch at 4:00 p.m. and we will have a cocktail reception immediately following.

Leo Hargrave:
Charles Leo Hargrave, 87, died Saturday, July 11, 2009, at his home in Laclede, Kansas. Leo was a man of many talents honed from a humble upbringing during the Great Depression and WW II.
Leo married Ellen White of Laclede, KS, June 10, 1978. He built their Charolais operation and surrounding lease lands to the point that he was recognized as a model of sustainable environmental grazing practices. The couple simultaneously built a dude business on the cattle ranch. Guests from around the world joined them for the next 20 years in Living the Legend of a Montana cowboy. Leo spent 6 years helping to guide the Dude Ranchers’ Association as a board member and was honored with induction to the DRA Hall of Fame in 2007.

Travels with Timi Gustafson: Dude Ranching in Colorado

The DRA Wrangler Certification Update

The Wrangler Certification course has been established to train wranglers/guides in the skills needed to meet the Minimum Horse Safety Standards accepted by the DRA certified ranches. This course provides the skills and knowledge needed to prevent potential accidents, and how to anticipate dangerous situations on the trail. Participants in this program must already have a good working knowledge of horsemanship skills. This is both a hands on and classroom experience. The course follows the material presented in the DRA Horse Safety Manual.

The Wrangler Certification program has been very successful again this year:
• 6 Ranches have hosted the wrangler training
• 16 Ranches sent wranglers to be certified
• 58 wranglers have been certified this year making a total of 247 wranglers currently certified.

The Certified Wrangler Instructor Training course has been established to train instructors for the Wrangler Certification program. This covers presenting the material in the classroom and in a hands-on experience at the barn or on the trail. There are currently 58 Certified Wrangler Instructors.

Guest Testimonial of the Week

We visited the Red Rock Ranch in Kelly, Wyoming for the week and we would highly recommend it to those who seek thrilling landscapes, a fine management and staff operating the facility, overwhelming kindness and courtesies, superb riding and teaching skills by staff, good food, five star rooms and cabins; we are not strangers to Dude Ranch getaways and have visited 3 of the finest ones out there; we move Red Rock to the top of our list and we plan to return there, without any doubt. R. Gordon, Miami.

DRA Horse Safety Program

In 2004 the DRA introduced its first Association defined Horse Safety program. The program has seen a significant level of participation from membership. It is designed to assist ranches in managing risk and establish reasonable standards for the Industry. The Horse Safety Program consists of the DRA Horse Safety and Adaptive First Aid for the Trail Certifications, Certified Wrangler Instructor, and Certified Wrangler and is an endorsed insurance program.

The DRA Horse Safety and Adaptive First Aid for the Trail program reflects the minimum guidelines for member ranches and other trail riding programs related to Horse Safety and Adaptive First Aid for the Trail. This program provides an educational opportunity through a seminar approach. Our goal is to promote continual evaluation of safety procedures and skills to improve the quality of our programs. Currently there are a total of 107 DRA Ranches, Associate Member Ranches and Outfitters Horse Safety Certified.

The Dude Ranchers’ Association Horse Safety Program is the standard for anyone involved in Western Riding Programs. It's been developed by those with more experience and more guest hours in the saddle than any other organization in the world. Summer camps, trail ride operators and Western riding instructors would all greatly benefit by becoming a part of the Dude Ranchers’ Association and taking advantage of the expertise available there. Safe practices not only help provide a better experience for guests and more return riders, operating under policies established by the recognized leader in the field provide insurance companies with a greater comfort level which can lead to lower rates. DRA has an insurance program available to members. Call them and ask for more information.
Allen A. McBride, Camp Mac

Stellar Staff at Family-Friendly Elk Mountain Ranch in Buena Vista, Colorado

This link to the Traveling Mama's website was sent to us this last week. Just thought I would share it with you!

Stellar Staff at Family-Friendly Elk Mountain Ranch in Buena Vista, Colorado

Happy 4th of July!

Just a quick note to wish everyone a very Happy and Safe 4Th of July. Remember Freedom is not Free. A special thanks to all veterans, our troops and those that suuport our men and women in uniform.


"You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism." ~Erma Bombeck

5 Great Reasons to Have a Wedding at a Dude Ranch

1. The Scenic Setting
Picturesque surroundings such as the majestic Rocky Mountains or wide open spaces like the Arizona desert are frequently home to guest ranches. Some have rivers or lakes on their property; others have large pastures or dramatic ridges. A couple who said their outdoor wedding photographs at a ranch were so beautiful that folks asked if they were shot in a studio with a scenic backdrop!

2. Friendly, Down-to-Earth People
No snooty staff member would last long at a ranch! Everyone pulls their weight and works together to make your wedding a wonderful, personal experience. Ranch folks
will welcome you and treat you like one of the family. Don’t be surprised if, before
you leave, the staff know all your names, what you like to eat and which horse you
prefer to ride!

3. One-Stop Destination
Come for a Friday night rehearsal dinner, get married outdoors Saturday morning, have an elegant reception Saturday afternoon, then stay for a honeymoon after the wedding! Dude and guest ranches have comfortable accommodations to provide lodging for overnight guests after they’ve enjoyed the wedding and reception. That way, there’s more time for guests to have fun and it eliminates driving home in the dark! Also, since ranches are generally on large plots of land, the noise factor isn’t a problem for the neighbors.

4. Outdoor Activities
Most ranches offer good clean fun in the great outdoors - horseback riding, nature
hikes, hay rides, swimming pools, tennis and game courts fantastic trophy trout fly fishing and rock-climbing Many now have hot tubs and offer massages for relaxing after an active day. Some even offer spa services.

5. Location, Location, Location
Many ranches give you the feeling that you’re far away from the big city but they are actually close to airports and major highways. Often, shuttle buses from the local airport will drop folks off at the ranch property or at a nearby central location in town. Folks are usually amazed at what a beautiful ranch lies nestled in the valley just down the hill from the highway!

There are ranches all over the west that make perfect wedding destinations and there’s sure to be one just right for the two of you. Contact us for more information.

Top Ten Reasons to Visit a Dude Ranch

Fodors.com did a great piece is on the The Top Ten Reasons to Visit a Dude Ranch!

Guest Testimonial of the Week

I go this email from Heidi from Apple Valley, MN this week and thought I would share it with you.

Hello! I just wanted to let you know how happy I was with my stay at Covered Wagon Ranch in MT. The cabins were charming, the food was excellent, and the staff was outstanding. We were very impressed with Covered Wagon Ranch. I would definitely recommend them! This was our first dude ranch adventure. Thanks for all your help in planning! Thanks!! Heidi

Guest Testimonial of the Week

Sweet Grass Ranch
I've just returned from a wonderful week at Sweet Grass Ranch. Spectacular scenery, fantastic horses, and great food! The riding here went well beyond my expectations. Bill and Shelly are such wonderful hosts. Watching Rocco work with horses is a special treat. No wonder guests return year after year!

Guest Ranches Are Resilient When Faced With Economic Challenges

Dude ranchers are a savvy breed and know how to adapt to challenging economic conditions. Simply said, they know how to ride the storm out. It is no accident that Paradise Ranch, a western wilderness retreat in the Big Horn Mountains of northern Wyoming, has been around for over a century. The owners know the hospitality business and have a faithful following of visitors. Guest ranch vacationers know that all activities, meals and lodging are included in one flat fee.

Buffalo, WY (March 31, 2009) – Paradise Ranch, near the Old West town of Buffalo, Wyoming, has stood the test of time. “Paradise Ranch has been operating as a guest ranch for over 100 years. Our visitors recognize the fact that this is a cost-effective way to vacation.” says Paradise Ranch owner Clay Miller. Upon arrival, guests can put away their wallet because cash won’t needed for a full seven days. All activities, meals and lodging are included in one flat fee.

On a week-long stay at Paradise Ranch, guests can go horseback riding, perfect fly-fishing skills, hike in the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area, eat authentic cowboy cuisine, and stay in a cozy cabin for one all-inclusive price. To read more about the rates and the guest ranch options Click Here.

Live Like a Cowboy at the Historic Vee Bar’s 4th of July Jubilee

Laramie, Wyo.--Nestled in the shadows of the Snowy Range Mountains along the banks of the Little Laramie River, the Vee Bar Guest Ranch has a rich history that stretches back over a hundred years, and travelers who want to celebrate the 4th of July “Old West style” will have the opportunity to visit the ranch for an Independence Day Jubilee. Located just 2 1/2 hours north of Denver, this offers an easy and economical destination for road-trippers who want a change of scenery that’s not too far away.

The fun begins with trail riding, river tubing, fishing, and hiking early in the week. Later in the week, guests will be able to team-pen cattle, move some 400 cows and calves from one pasture to another, campout, and ride in the mountains, just like the cowboys of the Old West. On Friday evening, July 3rd, local musicians perform music to dance to, while the celebration continues. Dance until dark and celebrate the Fourth with an assortment of fireworks right on the ranch. Add a seventh night to the package and enjoy Fire in the Sky in Laramie, compliments of the Vee Bar. Fire in the Sky begins on the Fourth with a concert in the evening and a great fireworks display afterwards. The event kicks off Jubilee Days, Laramie’s hometown rodeo, and a week of festivities.

The highlight of the week for many, however, is the Vee Bar’s legendary horseback riding program. Horseback riding is the quintessential cowboy activity and by far the best way to see new country. What sets the Vee Bar’s horseback riding program apart is that guests are assigned one horse for the week so they have the opportunity to bond with their horse. Their horseback riding program is diverse to suit the needs of everybody in the group, and riders are not asked to ride head to tail in an uninspiring line and loping rides are offered.

All of this is enhanced by the accommodation, which is comfortable and inviting. The cabins and lodge offer antique furnishings from the Vee Bar's rich and colorful past. Perfect for a week-long vacation or a weekend getaway, the cabins are in close proximity to the Snowy Range Mountains. Whether travelers are looking for a romantic mountain getaway or a rough and tumble family vacation, these warm and inviting cabins will be a perfect fit.

Dates: June 28th-July 4th, 2009. For more information about the Vee Bar Guest Ranch, visit the website or contact Kari Kilmer at 307-745-7036. To Read more...

Guest Testimonial of the Week

Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
"My youngest daughter said it best, "We loved it so much that we want to live here." There was so much laughter and good times! The horseback riding, the petting zoo, the skeet shooting, the ping pong. and the friendships were wonderful! This was just what we needed as a family. Brought us much closer together. We would recommend this to many others, but we want to keep it for ourselves."

Sylvan Dale selected as a member of The Green Hotel Association!

DRA Member, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch in Loveland was recently selected as a member of The Green Hotel Association in offering an eco-friendly place to stay. This membership certifies Sylvan Dale as a practicing green business committed to operating in ways that assure protection and conservation of their natural resources.

The ranch owners have preserved over 1,700 acres of foothills views and wildlife habitat through conservation easements. Last Summer, the ranch was named the “2008 Conservationist of the Year" for the Upper South Platte Watershed by the Big Thompson Conservation District in Colorado. This year, they were selected by the Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce as the winner of the 2008 Environmental Business Award.

Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch is located in the Rocky Mountain foothills in Loveland, Colorado, close to Estes Park. For more information about the ranch’s sustainable practices, visit their web site at www.sylvandale.com and click on Green Practices.

Discover Dude Ranching

Let us help you find a Ranch to Match Your Dreams
Enjoy a taste of the authentic American West where horses, hats, history and hospitality abound. With over 100 carefully chosen member ranches, the Dude Ranchers' Association (DRA) has one to match your dream vacation – perfectly, all while protecting lands, parks, forests and wildlife.
Our Dude, Resort and Working Ranches are in the most picturesque regions of the USA and Canada near historic sites and national parks for a photographer’s heyday! Each has its own unique history, incredible horseback riding tailored to the rider’s age and ability, and exciting outdoor adventures like white water rafting, paradise fishing on scenic rivers, fun hay rides, hikes, golfing. Blue skies, starry nights and the sounds of silence are also included in your dude ranch vacation. Lounge in a hammock until the dinner bell rings and then breathe pure clean air as you rediscover the brightest shining stars peaking out from Heaven.
Want to gaze into a crackling fire instead of a computer screen? Then, it’s time you discovered the majestic beauty of the land and got reacquainted with your family and friends. Join us anytime of year for genuine western hospitality. Prices, programs and activities vary. We guarantee the lodging industry’s highest standards whether staying in a rustic cabin or top end ranch resort. Once you’ve had a taste of a dude ranch, you may never want to go anywhere else on vacation again.
Contact our members today to reserve your perfect dude ranch getaway, or go to http://www.duderanch.org/ for our vacation guide. What a vacation it can be!

There is still time to book your summer dude ranch vacation!

The selection of savings on a family dude ranch vacation this summer are as varied as the ranches themselves. With the array of added value programs and specials at these ranches ranging from Alberta, Canada to Wyoming - there is no better time to pack up the family and head west for that vacation you have been dreaming of:

Why Vacation at a DRA Dude Ranch?
All inclusive packages: meals, lodging, housekeeping, activities at the ranch, horse and tack for the duration of your stay are included in the package.

FAMILY REUNIONS, COUPLES, FAMILIES & SINGLES ALL WELCOME: It make perfect sense! It frees everyone up to have a good time. The cooks, housekeepers and support staff necessary to provide a restful and meaningful event are all provided.

There is something for everyone:
You can choose between a variety of activities: riding, taking a leisurely walk, getting a relaxing massage, sitting on the porch reading a book all the while feeling the stress and tension of everyday life slip away. You do not have to worry about your spouse and the kids or the other guests because they are off having a great time riding, roping, white water rafting, fishing, team penning, swimming, playing tennis, trap shooting , going on hay rides and much much more. By evening everyone is in for a treat. While dinning on down home cooking or feasting on gourmet fare you know there are no dishes to be done. Close the evening out with western dancing, camp fire sing along, a game of billiards or relaxing in the Hot Tub.

Each year families, couples and those traveling alone, are experiencing the wonderful hidden value of the simpler, caring way of life found on a dude ranch. They are learning that dude ranches are extra friendly places for kids and families to re-discover each other, and the single traveler. The new adventures and exciting experiences that fill dude ranch days and enable us all to weather the more difficult times in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

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!

Testimonial of the Week

Vee Bar Guest Ranch
"This trip was a life changing event for us. It made us think of the rat race we are living and to slow down a bit. We had a great week and loved our horses, the guests and the staff. Thank you Vee Bar. We will return with more of our friends." -Dani & Shane

North Fork Ranch Video

2009-2010 Scholarships Awarded

In today’s tough economic times it is harder and harder to fund a quality college education. The Educational Trust was set up to do just that. The Educational Trust began in 1988 by Mark Grubbs. Mark and his wife, Amy, were co-executive directors and former dude ranch owners. Mark’s dream was to establish a fund to give scholarships to young people who wanted to be in the Dude Ranch industry. The scholarship fund has been administered by our Executive Director (s) and the Educational Trust Board of Directors from it’s inception to the present. Each year the DRA Educational Trust awards scholarships to students who will perpetuate the dude ranch industry.

The Educational Trust Board awarded 8 scholarships worth a total of $12,000 for the 2009/2010 school year. The recipients are:

Darcey Anthony - Colorado, Haley Chesser - New Mexico, Spencer George - Colorado, Susannah Jackson - Massachusetts, Kameron Kelsey - Montana, Haley May - Colorado, Kelly Rich - Montana, Steven True - Arizona.

Congratulations!
Since the first scholarship was awarded for the 1990-1991 school year, the Educational Trust has awarded a total of $149,000.

“Welcome!” to North Fork Ranch & Fishing Lodge!

“Home” of the newest addition to the Colorado Orvis Endorsed Lodge Program. Our diverse program, intimate size and personal attention set us apart from being just a fishing lodge. Settle in, you’ll quickly realize there is a magic here, a place that feels as good as home.

Only footsteps off the back porch rests 2.5 miles of Dwight D. Eisenhower’s favorite fishing, the North Fork of the South Platte River. Teeming with an amazing abundance of Rainbow, Brown, Cutbow, Snake River Cutthroat and Brook Trout, whether out for the first time or a seasoned angler, you are in for an experience of a lifetime. Orvis guides offer fly fishing instruction in addition to half and full day guided trips. Conveniently located 50 miles southwest of Denver with transfers available. While others are still traveling, you’ll be wetting a line in the Colorado Rocky Mountains breathing in the fresh, mountain air.

If fishing is your passion, our combination is the perfect fit. Join Kevin Gregory; the ranches personal fly fishing guide with over 20 years of experience. His easy personality and contagious laugh will complete your day of fishing. Whether you choose the warmth of the summer with clear blue skies, our spectacular fall with crisp, clear air, or a winter wonderland, you will enjoy this jewel of a property.

North Fork Ranch offers something to please every interest. Our summer “Dude Ranch” package provides activities for families of all ages. Join us in the corral and meet one of our terrific horses that is sure to take care of you whether you choose a full day, lunch, brunch, bushwhacking or loping ride. So many other options to fill your days such as: whitewater rafting, hiking in spectacular alpine meadows, bow & arrow, and target shooting. After a busy day, refresh in our heated pool or hot tubs along side the river and let’s not forget to enjoy a therapeutic massage. The aroma of bread baking and cookies straight from the oven will certainly entice your appetite. Guests boast about our dining with a gourmet flare! Your day is not finished when the sun goes down; enjoy fun filled evenings with campfire & cowboy ballads, hayride, square dance, & an authentic Mountain Man! So many options; don’t forget to sit back, relax and rejuvenate on your front porch counting stars or enjoy a glass of wine in front of a crackling fire in your cozy cabin. You too have discovered a secret hideaway.

With Great pride, we welcome you into our home. The May’s, Dean, Karen and their children, Hayley & Tyler, have been your hosts since 1985. We enjoy getting to know each and every one of our guests. Hospitality is our passion, whether you spend a day or a week, you will quickly absorb that comfortable feeling. You will arrive as our guest and depart as our friend.

From all of us, it is our pleasure to extend an invitation to join us where time is measured by clear blue skies, the arc of the sun, and shimmering shadows on the river mountain sides.

Article in Orvis Sporting Traditions Newspaper, Volume XLII Number 1, January/February 2009 Issue, pg. 14

The DRA will be at QuarterFest in Murfreesboro, Tennessee

QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration of the American Quarter Horse Association’s 68th anniversary where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.

Colleen Hodson, Executive Director of the Dude Ranchers' Association will be at the QuarterFest in the Dude Ranchers' Association booth. David & Jane Van Berkum from the Rainbow Trout Ranch will be helping out with the kids riding programs during the weekend event. If you are at the event, stop by the DRA booth.

Everyone is welcome – come for the fun and bring the family. Learn more about all the QuarterFest activities by visiting www.aqha.com/quarterfest. Hurry, tickets are going fast!

WIN YOUR SUMMER VACATION AT THE AQHA's QUARTERFEST EXTRAVAGANZA!

America’s Horse, April 27, 2009 – Got any summer vacation plans? You might if you attend the QuarterFest Extravaganza May 1 and 2 and win a trip to a Dude Ranchers’ of America dude ranch in Arizona or Colorado.

The Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, and Tarryall River Ranch in Lake George, Colorado, are just itchin’ to host the winners from the QuarterFest Extravaganza, www.aqha.com/quarterfest/allstar_extravaganza.html.

Nestled among the majestic natural beauty of the Rincon Mountains between Saguaro National Park and the Coronado National Forest, the Tanque Verde dude ranch, in business since 1868, is set on 60,000 acres of unspoiled southwest landscape surrounding plush accommodations, unparalleled amenities and a diverse menu of daily rides and activities. Guests are invited to take part in a variety of horseback adventures, hit the trails on a mountain bike, or hike, fish, swim and just play at the Tanque Verde.

The winners of the Colorado dude ranch vacation will be welcomed to the Tarryall River Ranch by the Tesch family. At the Tarryall, you can fish, hike or spend the entire time horseback. You’ll appreciate the wranglers and the thorough instruction provided. Beginners will be made to feel comfortable on the most gentle of horses, while intermediate and advanced riders will be matched with a horse that will perfectly compliment their abilities. With the choice of half-day or all-day rides, you’ll also be able to chose the ride you want: touring beautiful spots, instructional rides to sharpen your skills, leisurely rides or more advanced rides in groups or with your family. An overnight pack trip is available, too. There is also opportunity to work in the arena, team-penning or practicing for the ranch rodeo.

The vacations, which must be used during the 2009 season, are both four-night packages for two people and are based upon availability. Airfare is not included, and some restrictions may apply. Again, one dude ranch vacation will be given away each night – May 1 and 2 – at the QuarterFest Extravaganza. No purchase necessary. Must be 18 to win. Complete contest rules available at www.aqha.com/quarterfest/media/extravaganza_DR_Rules.pdf.

The Western Dude Ranch Rejuvenates & Boosts Health of Each Guest.

According to experts, taking a vacation is good for your health. Despite this fact, Americans and Canadians tend to shortchange their vacation time, often leaving earned time on the table or taking a day here and a day there instead of a week or more at one stretch. Since 1926 the Dude Ranchers’ Association shaped and established the highest quality standards in the guest ranch industry. A DRA (as it’s known,) guest ranch is the epitome of a Western holiday and providing both the time and environment to foster good health. Surrounded by spectacular beauty, far from the noise and crowds of fast-paced cities, serenity comes easy to each guest.

According to the career website, Workopolis, “Psychologists say that it takes five to seven days to de-stress from work, so doing it piecemeal can be counter productive. Most of the studies show people need about two weeks in one block a year to feel the benefits of a vacation.” During summer the majority of DRA guest ranches operate in week-long increments, allowing guests the time to unwind, settle in and savor the experience.

In addition to horsemanship, ranches offer activities satisfying the recreational and social needs of each generation. Tennis clinics, mountain biking, rock climbing, zip-lining, bird watching, crafts, hiking, whitewater rafting, and golf; each can be enjoyed during a Western ranch vacation. Some ranches also offer known stress reducers like yoga, meditation, massages and other soothing spa treatments.

Dude ranches are ideal places for kids and families to re-connect. Without the typical distractions of TV, phones, computers and electronic games, families spend quality time together sometimes just hanging out on the porch swing or sitting around the campfire.

There are more than 100 members of the Dude Ranchers’ Association in the Western US and Canada. Each is a little different but each DRA dude ranch vacation is the most potent tonic to combat the stress caused by the uncertain times we live in.

Guest Testimonial of the Week

63 Ranch
"It is nearly one year since I came to stay at your Ranch in Montana. I wanted to write and tell you that I dont think another holiday could ever match the week i spent at the 63 Ranch. Even after all this time I often still think about the great times, the horses, the staff, the scenery and all the fantastic people I met in that week. I have seen many places all over the world but I dont think anywhere is as beautiful as Montana." -Tina W

Help for Travel Agents

Your time is valuable! Let us help you find the dude ranch vacation of your client's dreams!

Tools To Help You Find the Right Ranch At www.duderanch.org

Search for your "dream dude ranch vacation” with the New & Up-To-Date Activities & Amenities Search at www.duderanch.org/ranches.cfm?  Find out quickly which ranches pay travel agent commissions with the new "WORKS WITH TRAVEL AGENTS” option.  (The majority of DRA Ranches do.)

Have a specific dates of travel, questions or special needs for your client’s vacation? You can have direct and quick contact with member ranches by using the “Request Brochure” Feature. Fill out the contact form, select a state or states, and ask your question. This one email will go to each ranch in the states that YOU select. Quick & Easy!

Free 2009 Dude Ranch Directories are available upon request. Call, Email or fill out the "Request A Brochure" from online to get your copy. (Look for the link to request your copy at the right of this blog!)

As always, if you would like to talk to someone directly, please call the DRA office toll free at 866-399-2339.

Why Choose a DRA Ranch?
When you book a vacation at a member ranch, you can be assured of genuine, western hospitality combined with the lodging industry’s latest standards. Membership in the Association is not automatic. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two year inspection and approval process. The Dude Ranchers' Association has been preserving western ranch vacations by establishing and maintaining strict standards, while protecting the land and wildlife for over 80 years - We encourage you to “Ride the West with the Best!”

"Staycation" At a Dude Ranch is a Great Summer Vacation Option

Happily, there’s a middle ground between boarding a jet to a coastal luxury resort or nixing the family vacation altogether. The less expensive (and far less stressful) “staycation” is an option. The local guest dude ranch makes an excellent choice for a “drive-to” destination. These quintessential Western getaways have always offered tremendous value for the money, and with today’s tenuous economic climate, a trip to a dude ranch in one’s home state or province looks even better.

In the Western US & Canada located in 12 Western states and two Canadian provinces, there are more than 100 ranch members of the Dude Ranchers’ Association. Folks wary about committing to a summer vacation may want to consider the value of a dude ranch getaway offering all the traditional Western pleasures and much more.

In addition to riding, wrangling, fishing, and hiking, folks enjoy whitewater rafting, canoeing, tennis, mountain biking, even hot air ballooning or rock climbing! There are programs available for kids of all ages. At some ranches it’s possible for Dad to play a round of golf and for Mom to relax with spa treatments. Choosing a dude ranch in your home state guarantees a less costly vacation while at the same time assuring a quality experience. Only authentic ranches of high quality are granted entrance to the DRA. In fact, only 50% of ranches that apply make it through the rigorous process.

With more than 100 member ranches in the Western US and Canada from Alberta to Arizona and from California to Arkansas. A dude ranch “staycation” can be the perfect compromise for thousands of families this summer. To locate a dude ranch close to your home, assistance is just a click away by going to the DRA website, or by phoning the organization to request a free catalog at 866-399-2339.

(*Since 1926 the Dude Ranchers' Association has been helping folks find quality ranch vacations by establishing and enforcing high standards for its members. The association’s original membership of 35 ranches from the Yellowstone area. has grown to 100-plus member ranches in 12 western states and two Canadian provinces. Despite this growth, the association remains dedicated to preserving the beauty, natural resources, and the original western ranch experiences that attracted the first visitors.)

Canary in the Coal Mine ~ Letter from the President Russell True

As the cacti start to bloom in the desert, we here at our ranch are a few weeks from our season beginning to wind down. We entered our season September 1st with a great season on the books and watched as cancellations mounted following the financial collapse.
What we experienced following the collapse might just make us the proverbial canary in the coal mine for the Northern ranches. For the last twenty plus years we have had the good fortune to be able to maintain a six night minimum stay during our high season and a 4 night minimum stay during our off-season periods. Very quickly we dropped our minimum stays to 4 and 3 nights. People were booking last minute and our 44 year core business of families during high season was giving way to more couples and singles. Our UK and European business held up more than we expected.
The bottom line included some surprises and some realized expectations. Not surprisingly, we found an increased demand for shorter stays and a greatly shortened booking window. The big surprise was the decrease in family business and the increase in couples and singles. We wonder if the stability of the UK and European business is a result of the wholesalers collecting the money up front. Foreign bookings for next season are slightly down. Re-booking for couples and singles are up, for families it is down.
Honestly, I don’t know if any of this has any bearing on your ranches’ upcoming seasons. What I do know is, we must be flexible and innovative.
My very best to all of you.
Russell True, DRA President