Thursday, February 26, 2009
A Letter From the DRA President
Dude and Guest Ranch Vacations, A Sure Thing in Uncertain Times
My parents were children of The Great Depression. It shaped their lives and to some extent my own. If my grandfather was alive, I imagine he might say “I knew the great depression and this is no great depression”. But times are difficult and uncertain. In a fairly short time our confidence has been badly shaken and we aren’t sure what is going to happen next.
Dude Ranches go back to the late 1800’s and in fact many are still owned and operated by 3rd, 4th, even 5th generation families. These families and their guests have weathered many storms together over the years. Multiple generation families kept making the trip out West to some of the most beautiful and unspoiled parts of our country because in an ever changing world they knew what they were getting and what to expect.
Families also knew then and know today that the uncomplicated, uninterrupted realness of time on the ranch gives them what they need so much, time together sharing authentic experiences that bring them closer, creating a lifetime of memories to draw from forever. READ MORE
Thursday, February 19, 2009
A Ranch to Match Your Dreams
Imagine yourself taking the best vacation of your life at a dude ranch. The cool, fresh mountain air, the open spaces, the feel of a steady horse beneath you as you top the next rise... the flash of color from the dark pool as the monster trout rises to your offering...luxuriating in the warmth of the setting sun as you wait for the dinner bell's call ... shared time with family and friends.
The Dude Ranchers' Association, which was formed in 1926, has over 100 member ranches that offer all inclusive dude ranch vacation packages. Each of the DRA ranches are uniquely different and range from rustic to ritzy with everything in between.
Since every ranch is a direct reflection of the family operating it, there are no two ranches alike. For first time guests, we've created a list of basic questions addressing the question...
"How do you choose the ranch to match your dreams?"
Riding should be your first consideration - choose the riding environment that appeals to you; open meadows, prairies, mountain trails or southwestern desert. The location of the ranch determines the terrain.
Then, choose the type of riding you'd like; working livestock, cattle drives, pack trips, team penning and arena games or daily trail rides. All ranches fall into one of the following categories - which will help you make the best choice:
WORKING DUDE RANCH: These are working cattle or sheep operations. Your horseback riding adventures will be determined by the ranch's livestock and the work related to them. Be prepared to experience these activities first hand.
DUDE RANCH: Horseback riding is central to these ranches. The cowboy in you will experience Western riding and a variety of outdoor activities.
RESORT DUDE RANCH:Horseback riding is featured, and these ranches offer an array of diverse activities and onsite facilities. These are apt to be the larger ranches.
Your next consideration should be the time of year - typically, the ranches in the northern states (and cooler climates) are the busiest in the summer months, while the southern ranches offer warm weather riding in the winter months.
The number of guests that a ranch can host will also be something to think about - a stay at a ranch with only eight guests is a dramatically different experience than choosing a ranch that serves eighty or one hundred guests. The difference is most noticeable in the dining and social experiences.
Your accommodations are also an important consideration - ranch atmospheres range from rustic to luxurious, and everything in between. Ranches are always extremely clean and comfortable, but if you need hair dryers, TV's, Jacuzzi tubs, a daily massage and wireless Internet to make your dream vacation, just choose your ranch accordingly. With over one hundred unique ranches in the Association, we have one to match your dreams - perfectly. As you narrow your choices down to a couple ranches, call and explain to them what's most important to you - they'll help you make the best choice.
Membership in the Association is not automatic. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two year inspection and approval process. When you vacation at a Dude Ranchers' Association Dude Ranch, you can be sure of a quality vacation. Choose a Dude Ranchers' Association ranch and Ride The West with The Best!
The Dude Ranchers' Association, which was formed in 1926, has over 100 member ranches that offer all inclusive dude ranch vacation packages. Each of the DRA ranches are uniquely different and range from rustic to ritzy with everything in between.
Since every ranch is a direct reflection of the family operating it, there are no two ranches alike. For first time guests, we've created a list of basic questions addressing the question...
"How do you choose the ranch to match your dreams?"
Riding should be your first consideration - choose the riding environment that appeals to you; open meadows, prairies, mountain trails or southwestern desert. The location of the ranch determines the terrain.
Then, choose the type of riding you'd like; working livestock, cattle drives, pack trips, team penning and arena games or daily trail rides. All ranches fall into one of the following categories - which will help you make the best choice:
WORKING DUDE RANCH: These are working cattle or sheep operations. Your horseback riding adventures will be determined by the ranch's livestock and the work related to them. Be prepared to experience these activities first hand.
DUDE RANCH: Horseback riding is central to these ranches. The cowboy in you will experience Western riding and a variety of outdoor activities.
RESORT DUDE RANCH:Horseback riding is featured, and these ranches offer an array of diverse activities and onsite facilities. These are apt to be the larger ranches.
Your next consideration should be the time of year - typically, the ranches in the northern states (and cooler climates) are the busiest in the summer months, while the southern ranches offer warm weather riding in the winter months.
The number of guests that a ranch can host will also be something to think about - a stay at a ranch with only eight guests is a dramatically different experience than choosing a ranch that serves eighty or one hundred guests. The difference is most noticeable in the dining and social experiences.
Your accommodations are also an important consideration - ranch atmospheres range from rustic to luxurious, and everything in between. Ranches are always extremely clean and comfortable, but if you need hair dryers, TV's, Jacuzzi tubs, a daily massage and wireless Internet to make your dream vacation, just choose your ranch accordingly. With over one hundred unique ranches in the Association, we have one to match your dreams - perfectly. As you narrow your choices down to a couple ranches, call and explain to them what's most important to you - they'll help you make the best choice.
Membership in the Association is not automatic. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two year inspection and approval process. When you vacation at a Dude Ranchers' Association Dude Ranch, you can be sure of a quality vacation. Choose a Dude Ranchers' Association ranch and Ride The West with The Best!
Escape The Winter Blues
Those eager to escape this winter’s especially icy grip, head for the deserts of the Southwest, where several fine dude ranches provide just the antidote for the wintertime blues. Not only do many ranches offer the same amenities and services found at typical “snowbird” destinations, a ranch getaway is generally more affordable than a resort stay as ranches operate on the American plan, with several offering special winter deals and programming as well.
While there are several ranches to choose from, be sure to select a member of The Dude Ranchers' Association. Since 1926 the DRA has steered folks to quality ranch vacations by establishing and enforcing high standards for its members.
DRA member ranch, The Circle Z Ranch straddles the Southern Arizona border, just minutes from Mexico. The ranch is surrounded by the rugged Santa Rita Mountains and shaded by grand cottonwood and sycamore trees. There are plenty of riding trails on 6,500 surrounding acres, including the old “saloon ride” leading to the town of Patagonia, so guests can get a slice of the real old West. (Close to the Patagonia-Sonoita Nature Reserve, it’s likely for riders to encounter uncommon bird species like the vermillion fly catcher or rare varieties of hummingbirds.) Resort like amenities includes an all-weather tennis court and heated pool. Cool and colorful adobe cottages substitute for cookie-cutter hotel rooms, and excellent food served on the patio of the main lodge treat diners to a panoramic view of the mountains and desert.
Located 65 miles Southwest of Tucson surrounded by the sacred Baboquivari mountain range is The Rancho De La Osa Guest Ranch. One of the last true haciendas in America, here guests develop an appreciation for Spanish culture and the seventeenth century missions found across the American Southwest. Each building of the Spanish-style estate has a rich history, lovingly restored for the utmost comfort and furnished with fine antiques and international art. The exquisite surroundings are an ideal setting for gourmet dining and fine wine and tequila tastings throughout the season. The natural beauty of the mountains invites exploration via hiking, mountain biking, birding, and riding. Many guests end the day with a dip in the pool, soak in the hot tub, or with a relaxing massage. The Rancho de la Osa is a very romantic ranch, and offers an internet special through February 15 with reduced rates as well as a very special Valentines Day package.
The White Stallion Ranch in Tucson has all the services and amenities of a fine resort. At the foot of the saguaro studded Tucson Mountains, one can’t imagine a more scenic, sun-splashed locale. With 3,000 wild acres adjacent to Saguaro National park, the riding selections are endless. It may even be difficult to fit every activity offered here during one stay. Guests spend time on the trails as well on the tennis courts, in the pool and working out in the fitness center. There’s a basketball and volleyball court and lots of evening entertainment too. The White Stallion offers special weeks and programming throughout the year with the exception of July and most of August when the ranch is closed. Coming up at the end of February is their popular Cactus Cowgirls-a five day holiday designed for girls who just want to have fun. Started in 1926, the DRA now boasts over 100-plus member ranches in 12 western states and two Canadian provinces. The association remains dedicated to preserving the beauty, natural resources, and authentic western ranch experience that first attracted visitors during every season of the year.
While there are several ranches to choose from, be sure to select a member of The Dude Ranchers' Association. Since 1926 the DRA has steered folks to quality ranch vacations by establishing and enforcing high standards for its members.
DRA member ranch, The Circle Z Ranch straddles the Southern Arizona border, just minutes from Mexico. The ranch is surrounded by the rugged Santa Rita Mountains and shaded by grand cottonwood and sycamore trees. There are plenty of riding trails on 6,500 surrounding acres, including the old “saloon ride” leading to the town of Patagonia, so guests can get a slice of the real old West. (Close to the Patagonia-Sonoita Nature Reserve, it’s likely for riders to encounter uncommon bird species like the vermillion fly catcher or rare varieties of hummingbirds.) Resort like amenities includes an all-weather tennis court and heated pool. Cool and colorful adobe cottages substitute for cookie-cutter hotel rooms, and excellent food served on the patio of the main lodge treat diners to a panoramic view of the mountains and desert.
Located 65 miles Southwest of Tucson surrounded by the sacred Baboquivari mountain range is The Rancho De La Osa Guest Ranch. One of the last true haciendas in America, here guests develop an appreciation for Spanish culture and the seventeenth century missions found across the American Southwest. Each building of the Spanish-style estate has a rich history, lovingly restored for the utmost comfort and furnished with fine antiques and international art. The exquisite surroundings are an ideal setting for gourmet dining and fine wine and tequila tastings throughout the season. The natural beauty of the mountains invites exploration via hiking, mountain biking, birding, and riding. Many guests end the day with a dip in the pool, soak in the hot tub, or with a relaxing massage. The Rancho de la Osa is a very romantic ranch, and offers an internet special through February 15 with reduced rates as well as a very special Valentines Day package.
The White Stallion Ranch in Tucson has all the services and amenities of a fine resort. At the foot of the saguaro studded Tucson Mountains, one can’t imagine a more scenic, sun-splashed locale. With 3,000 wild acres adjacent to Saguaro National park, the riding selections are endless. It may even be difficult to fit every activity offered here during one stay. Guests spend time on the trails as well on the tennis courts, in the pool and working out in the fitness center. There’s a basketball and volleyball court and lots of evening entertainment too. The White Stallion offers special weeks and programming throughout the year with the exception of July and most of August when the ranch is closed. Coming up at the end of February is their popular Cactus Cowgirls-a five day holiday designed for girls who just want to have fun. Started in 1926, the DRA now boasts over 100-plus member ranches in 12 western states and two Canadian provinces. The association remains dedicated to preserving the beauty, natural resources, and authentic western ranch experience that first attracted visitors during every season of the year.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)