May we remember each day that the Memorial Day holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who died in military service for their country... because of them we have our Freedom! May you all have a safe and fun Memorial Day Weekend!
"The story of America's quest for freedom is inscribed on her history in the blood of her patriots."
~Randy Vader
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Guest Testimonials of the Week
Bar W Guest Ranch, Whitefish, Montana
“Our visit to the Bar W was two-fold. Firstly it has been a lifelong dream to visit Montana after years of writing to a pen pal here as child. Secondly it was to overcome a fear of horse riding as a result of a near fatal accident n the UK. Our visit here has met all our expectations, dreams and more! The careful management of the ranch by Ted is evident in all his people show have a “can do” attitude at all times (with safely and fun built in at all times). A special mention must go to Dave whom without I don’t believe I would have trusted myself to overcome my fears and enjoy the rest of the week. Thank you Dave! We would like to give special mention to Mandy who is not only a talented rider but a beautiful photographer and talented girl. Justin we thank for his manner and caring smile. James we thank for his fun and taking us on trails that needed to be ridden. Steve we thank for his kindness and genuine interest in people. Leah we thank for showing us some of the most stunning scenery in the world and her caring nature. Above all I must thank Blue Duck for taking care of me and restoring my faith in horses, they are God’s special creatures. If I could pack him in my suitcase I would take that gentleman home! Thank you all for a super holiday. We will be back.” I wrote this in 2007 and indeed did return to the Bar W in 2009 to experience the Cowgirl Up for the first time. In life we are taught never to go back as it may not live up to our memories, however, coming back here has broken that myth! The 2009 holiday afforded me time with friends, old (met at the Bar W in 2007) and new, fabulous riding thanks to Buster and as expected professional and knowledgeable staff whom have truly been a pleasure to interact with especially as they predict our needs before we even know we have any! I will be back!!! Thank you to everyone at Bar W! The Bar W in Montana is a little piece of heaven and I thoroughly recommend you visit soon. Pauline, Scotland, UK
Kay El Bar Ranch, Wickenburg, Arizona
The Most relaxing place on Earth, Kay El Bar we'll be back - My Wife and I had our second visit to the KL last year. It was like coming home. Everyone is so friendly, Guests and Staff. It is like one big family. The rides are amazing and tailored to your ability and what you would like. Fast paced loping ride or a long scenic mountain hike. All day ride with lunch overlooking fabulous canyons. Nothing is too much trouble the wranglers are great fun but professional too. The food is amazing, simple home cooking with family style seating discussing the rides and views and enjoying being relaxed. You don't need to think for the week you can just … be….and at the end of the day the sumptuous bed just floats you off to dreams of being a cowboy. Ready and refreshed more of the same. Not once did I want to see a TV, Phone or Newspaper, nor did I ever want to again. I could seriously live that life. Our second visit will NOT be our last. I seriously cannot stress how stress free a visit here is. It is well worth the 11hour flight in fact it is a positive bargain when you feel that stress just pour away into laughter. Thank you Kay El Bar. Daniel, West Sussex, England.
Spotted Horse Ranch, Jackson, Wyoming
Well I just returned from our trip out west with my daughter, son-in-law and my husband, I'm thankful we ended our final day of our vacation at the Spotted Horse Ranch. If we would have started our vacation at the ranch we would have not left to our other locations. The personal treated you like family, we where there only for a few days and felt we knew these people forever. The was a little of something for all of us. I am not a horse person but did go out riding a few times and was amazed at the view and how well the horses responded. We went whitewater rafting, hot springs swim, fly fishing which is more my thing, ate wonderful food and enjoyed entertainment in the evening at their private Saloon. I have been telling everyone about it and can't wait to return, but this time for the full week. If you haven't tried a dude ranch, this is the place, you will not be disappointed. Sincerely, Kathy Rader, Kenosha, WI.
Drowsy Water Ranch, Granby, Colorado
I have been to Drowsy Water Ranch five times and can't wait to get back this spring. I have taken several different friends with me, including my 82 year old aunt, and they all loved it. The valley is beautiful, the owners are so nice, and the staff goes out of their way to help you. Not only do you get to ride great horses, but you can go white water rafting, eat breakfast on the mountain top, square dance, hike in some of the most beautiful areas, kids can catch trout (and then eat them if they want to), wade in a mountain stream, see all kinds of wildlife, eat great meals (I gain 5 or 6 pounds every year), and so many more great things that I would have to write a whole page. They make you feel at home the whole time you are there plus they have so many activities you never miss the television or telephone. I especially would recommend Drowsy Water for folks with children. They have a wonderful children’s program with activities for all ages. I have seen so many happy first time riders, young and old. It is amazing what they can do for beginners in just a week. This is a great place for a vacation and I will be going back every chance I get. Paulette, Kentucky.
“Our visit to the Bar W was two-fold. Firstly it has been a lifelong dream to visit Montana after years of writing to a pen pal here as child. Secondly it was to overcome a fear of horse riding as a result of a near fatal accident n the UK. Our visit here has met all our expectations, dreams and more! The careful management of the ranch by Ted is evident in all his people show have a “can do” attitude at all times (with safely and fun built in at all times). A special mention must go to Dave whom without I don’t believe I would have trusted myself to overcome my fears and enjoy the rest of the week. Thank you Dave! We would like to give special mention to Mandy who is not only a talented rider but a beautiful photographer and talented girl. Justin we thank for his manner and caring smile. James we thank for his fun and taking us on trails that needed to be ridden. Steve we thank for his kindness and genuine interest in people. Leah we thank for showing us some of the most stunning scenery in the world and her caring nature. Above all I must thank Blue Duck for taking care of me and restoring my faith in horses, they are God’s special creatures. If I could pack him in my suitcase I would take that gentleman home! Thank you all for a super holiday. We will be back.” I wrote this in 2007 and indeed did return to the Bar W in 2009 to experience the Cowgirl Up for the first time. In life we are taught never to go back as it may not live up to our memories, however, coming back here has broken that myth! The 2009 holiday afforded me time with friends, old (met at the Bar W in 2007) and new, fabulous riding thanks to Buster and as expected professional and knowledgeable staff whom have truly been a pleasure to interact with especially as they predict our needs before we even know we have any! I will be back!!! Thank you to everyone at Bar W! The Bar W in Montana is a little piece of heaven and I thoroughly recommend you visit soon. Pauline, Scotland, UK
Kay El Bar Ranch, Wickenburg, Arizona
The Most relaxing place on Earth, Kay El Bar we'll be back - My Wife and I had our second visit to the KL last year. It was like coming home. Everyone is so friendly, Guests and Staff. It is like one big family. The rides are amazing and tailored to your ability and what you would like. Fast paced loping ride or a long scenic mountain hike. All day ride with lunch overlooking fabulous canyons. Nothing is too much trouble the wranglers are great fun but professional too. The food is amazing, simple home cooking with family style seating discussing the rides and views and enjoying being relaxed. You don't need to think for the week you can just … be….and at the end of the day the sumptuous bed just floats you off to dreams of being a cowboy. Ready and refreshed more of the same. Not once did I want to see a TV, Phone or Newspaper, nor did I ever want to again. I could seriously live that life. Our second visit will NOT be our last. I seriously cannot stress how stress free a visit here is. It is well worth the 11hour flight in fact it is a positive bargain when you feel that stress just pour away into laughter. Thank you Kay El Bar. Daniel, West Sussex, England.
Spotted Horse Ranch, Jackson, Wyoming
Well I just returned from our trip out west with my daughter, son-in-law and my husband, I'm thankful we ended our final day of our vacation at the Spotted Horse Ranch. If we would have started our vacation at the ranch we would have not left to our other locations. The personal treated you like family, we where there only for a few days and felt we knew these people forever. The was a little of something for all of us. I am not a horse person but did go out riding a few times and was amazed at the view and how well the horses responded. We went whitewater rafting, hot springs swim, fly fishing which is more my thing, ate wonderful food and enjoyed entertainment in the evening at their private Saloon. I have been telling everyone about it and can't wait to return, but this time for the full week. If you haven't tried a dude ranch, this is the place, you will not be disappointed. Sincerely, Kathy Rader, Kenosha, WI.
Drowsy Water Ranch, Granby, Colorado
I have been to Drowsy Water Ranch five times and can't wait to get back this spring. I have taken several different friends with me, including my 82 year old aunt, and they all loved it. The valley is beautiful, the owners are so nice, and the staff goes out of their way to help you. Not only do you get to ride great horses, but you can go white water rafting, eat breakfast on the mountain top, square dance, hike in some of the most beautiful areas, kids can catch trout (and then eat them if they want to), wade in a mountain stream, see all kinds of wildlife, eat great meals (I gain 5 or 6 pounds every year), and so many more great things that I would have to write a whole page. They make you feel at home the whole time you are there plus they have so many activities you never miss the television or telephone. I especially would recommend Drowsy Water for folks with children. They have a wonderful children’s program with activities for all ages. I have seen so many happy first time riders, young and old. It is amazing what they can do for beginners in just a week. This is a great place for a vacation and I will be going back every chance I get. Paulette, Kentucky.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Colorado dude ranches: Drowsy Water Ranch
This article was posted on May 12, 3:29 PM by Denver Outdoor Travel Examiner Melanie Pahl on the www.examiner.com site....
This is the second article in a series on the guest ranches of western Colorado.
Taking your family to a Colorado dude ranch is still considered the “great American vacation” after 100 years of these ranches being in existence. People can trade in their modern world of cell phones, internet and Ipods for horses, cowboy boots and blue jeans. These ranches also provide a spectacular setting for friends and families to connect and allow them to build lasting memories. READ MORE...
This is the second article in a series on the guest ranches of western Colorado.
Taking your family to a Colorado dude ranch is still considered the “great American vacation” after 100 years of these ranches being in existence. People can trade in their modern world of cell phones, internet and Ipods for horses, cowboy boots and blue jeans. These ranches also provide a spectacular setting for friends and families to connect and allow them to build lasting memories. READ MORE...
Monday, May 17, 2010
Dude Ranches Featured in American Cowboy Magazine!
American Cowboy Magazine highlighted "The Best Ranch Vacations of the West" in a nine page article in the June July 2009 issue written by Mark Bedor. Here is the link to the article...check it out!!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Colorado Dude Ranches Let Guests Experience The Old West
Thought I would share this great article with you that was on the http://www.examiner.com/ written by Melanie Pahl.
This is the first in a series on the guest ranches of Colorado.
Ever wanted to try your hand at cattle herding or feel what it’s like to ride the open range as the cowboys used to do in early Western movies? There are guest ranches all over Colorado that are still functioning as they have for decades and the owners are willing to share this western way of life. READ MORE...
This is the first in a series on the guest ranches of Colorado.
Ever wanted to try your hand at cattle herding or feel what it’s like to ride the open range as the cowboys used to do in early Western movies? There are guest ranches all over Colorado that are still functioning as they have for decades and the owners are willing to share this western way of life. READ MORE...
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Destination Dude Ranch: Adventure Vacations for Families
By: Tammy Tucker
There are countless people who have planned a destination vacation, gotten excited, only to end up disappointed, angry and frustrated at the outcomes. Many of the resort type packages offered are bare minimum activity plans, meaning you have to fill your stay with things to do. If you want to spend the day out hiking, you plan the path, the trails and any of the stops. If you decide to travel to a popular destination, it can mean hours of long waits, crowded places, and over priced food. There are easier options to bring you and your family closer.
Dude ranch adventure vacations are the way to go for families seeking the thrill of an amusement park, without the crowds. Our guest ranch has every part of your perfect holiday, all rolled into one great place. Start your adventure the minute you arrive. Pulling into our dude ranch parking lot, you will leave your car behind for the entire trip. No traffic jams or congestion to worry about up here. Everywhere you want to go will be done by horseback riding or your own two feet. Your experience will be a once in a lifetime adventure, so everything about our Durango dude ranch is meticulously thought out and planned, allowing you to start relaxing the minute you step out of your vehicle.
A guest ranch resort is different than any type of vacation you have been on. Instead of worrying about your children becoming bored, you will find them making friends instantly. This is because the resort guests become part of a close group of friends. Your children will be busy with different activities' thanks to our dude ranch kid programs. Watch them fall asleep soundly every night without a battle, and enjoy the quiet one on one time. With the children doing their own activities you are able to do what you want – something strange, I'm sure.
Spend time getting to know your horse. It will be simple, with endless journeys into the national park mountain forest, enjoying the stunning panoramic views. Partake in one riding adventure after another discovering all the sights our guest ranch has to offer. If horseback riding vacations aren't for you, enjoy the endless activities offered every day at Colorado Trails guest ranch.
Find your sense of adventure with our river rafting trip or power tubing on the crystal clear waters. Search through the forest for the perfect view of the breathtaking landscape on one of many hiking trails. After a day of thrill, relax in the soothing hot tub, feeling the cool evening breeze at your back
For More Information Visit ......
http://www.coloradotrails.com
About the Author
Colorado Trails Ranch is dude ranch in Durango, CO offering activities including horseback riding, western dancing, fly fishing, and much more. Call us today to plan your family reunion with us. www.coloradotrails.com
Read more: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/destination-dude-ranch-adventure-vacations-for-families-2322132.html#ixzz0nqcPfDCm
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
There are countless people who have planned a destination vacation, gotten excited, only to end up disappointed, angry and frustrated at the outcomes. Many of the resort type packages offered are bare minimum activity plans, meaning you have to fill your stay with things to do. If you want to spend the day out hiking, you plan the path, the trails and any of the stops. If you decide to travel to a popular destination, it can mean hours of long waits, crowded places, and over priced food. There are easier options to bring you and your family closer.
Dude ranch adventure vacations are the way to go for families seeking the thrill of an amusement park, without the crowds. Our guest ranch has every part of your perfect holiday, all rolled into one great place. Start your adventure the minute you arrive. Pulling into our dude ranch parking lot, you will leave your car behind for the entire trip. No traffic jams or congestion to worry about up here. Everywhere you want to go will be done by horseback riding or your own two feet. Your experience will be a once in a lifetime adventure, so everything about our Durango dude ranch is meticulously thought out and planned, allowing you to start relaxing the minute you step out of your vehicle.
A guest ranch resort is different than any type of vacation you have been on. Instead of worrying about your children becoming bored, you will find them making friends instantly. This is because the resort guests become part of a close group of friends. Your children will be busy with different activities' thanks to our dude ranch kid programs. Watch them fall asleep soundly every night without a battle, and enjoy the quiet one on one time. With the children doing their own activities you are able to do what you want – something strange, I'm sure.
Spend time getting to know your horse. It will be simple, with endless journeys into the national park mountain forest, enjoying the stunning panoramic views. Partake in one riding adventure after another discovering all the sights our guest ranch has to offer. If horseback riding vacations aren't for you, enjoy the endless activities offered every day at Colorado Trails guest ranch.
Find your sense of adventure with our river rafting trip or power tubing on the crystal clear waters. Search through the forest for the perfect view of the breathtaking landscape on one of many hiking trails. After a day of thrill, relax in the soothing hot tub, feeling the cool evening breeze at your back
For More Information Visit ......
http://www.coloradotrails.com
About the Author
Colorado Trails Ranch is dude ranch in Durango, CO offering activities including horseback riding, western dancing, fly fishing, and much more. Call us today to plan your family reunion with us. www.coloradotrails.com
(ArticlesBase SC #2322132)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Destination Dude Ranch: Adventure Vacations for FamiliesRead more: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/destination-dude-ranch-adventure-vacations-for-families-2322132.html#ixzz0nqcPfDCm
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Ranches with Adult Only Weeks
Sometimes you just want to get away with your significant other, adult friends or even by yourself. Dude ranchers understand that and have set aside a few weeks of their seasons for just that purpose. These “adult only” weeks are usually in the spring or fall when there are fewer number of guests. This gives you a chance to experience the ranch on a more personal level. So grab a little time for yourself and come see some of the most spectacular fall colors from the back of a horse at one of the DRA ranches. See List of Ranches that offer Adult Only Weeks.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
June at Smith Fork Ranch
Grand Opening Weekend - June 4th - 6th
Join us Friday June 4th, 2010 for a fabulous weekend marking the start of summer in this enchanting region of Western Colorado. The festivities commence with an exciting evening of regional mesa cuisine prepared by Chef Matthew Dusharme using local and seasonal ingredients from our own garden and live music on the pavilion offering unparalleled views of the West Elk Mountains. Tour the vineyards of the North Fork Valley, ride horseback or hike our miles of private trails, fly fish the epic waters of the Gunnison River or our own private waters of the Smith Fork and stocked ponds, cycle around the mesas, enjoy a relaxing creekside massage, and end your day with a glass of wine from our extensive private cellar and a meal celebrating the slow food movement of the valley. Discover Smith Fork Ranch, your private ranch.
Special discounted rates for Coloradans start at just $166/night/couple, space is limited, call now to
reserve!*
*two night minimum stay, includes breakfast. Taxes, service charge, & alcohol not included. Three night all inclusive package also available.
True West Weekend - June 11th - 13th
Join us Friday June 11th for a special weekend filled with authentic western amusements - start the weekend off Friday night at the Old Elk Lodge Pavilion here at Smith Fork Ranch with a barbecue cookout, beer from local Revolution Brewery, and live bluegrass music! Saturday morning the fun continues with our local town of Crawford Pioneer Days Parade - help us carry on the tradition and participate in float making and parading alongside our horse drawn wagon. Take a history tour by horse on a trail ride with our knowledgeable wranglers, learn to shoot with a bow and arrow, step into the real wild west on a flora and fauna naturalist guided walk, or kick back in a rocking chair under the stars and let the world go by. Escape to Smith Fork Ranch, your private ranch.
Special discounted rates for Coloradans start at just $166/night/couple, space is limited, call now to
reserve!*
*two night minimum stay, includes breakfast. Taxes, service charge, & alcohol not included. Three night all inclusive package also available.
Napa Valley Culinary Event - June 15 - 18th
Join us Tuesday June 15th for a unique three night experience celebrating the wines of the Napa Valley. Featuring special guest vintners from Steltzner Vineyards and Fountainhead Cellars, youʼll be whisked away on a culinary journey with our in house chef Mathew Dusharme who will be using local and seasonal ingredients from our own garden to create a delightful five course meal with wine pairing. Ride scenic Colorado Rocky Mountain trails amidst the wild flowers and budding summer foliage, or fly-fish the private waters of our ponds and the Smith Fork of the Gunnison River, savor our 5-star cuisine, and soak in our hot tubs - then gather with your friends and a glass of wine around the fire at the end of the day. Stay with us for this fantastic journey and then go on to the world renowned Food and Wine Classic in Aspen or linger longer here for the weekend! This week of wining and dining is one you won’t soon forget!
Special all inclusive gourmand package rates available starting at $700/night/couple, space is limited, call
now to reserve!*
*three night stay, includes lodging, all meals, half day guided on ranch activity, and amenities. Taxes, service charge, & alcohol (excepting mini course and wine pairing dinner) not included.
For more information contact the Smith For Ranch at 970.921.3454 or visit http://www.smithforkranch.com/
Monday, May 10, 2010
Dude Ranch Vacations Offer A Taste Of The Old West
I found this good article about Dude Ranches on the Travel & Leisure - Article Fabric blog...Articles from all over the world on Travel and Leisure weaved into one site! Here is a few paragraghs...
Dude ranch vacations were born in the late 1800's, but they really began to become popular in the post-World War I years. Society became more mobile, thanks to the automobile, and economically, the times were good. The movies were a popular form of entertainment, and westerns were dominant in films, creating a desire among large numbers of people to visit the Wild West. The only problem was that the west had been tamed.
And so was born a new American tourist attraction--the dude ranch. For a few days, tenderfoots could become cowboys, but without the perils true cowboys had faced. In a structured environment, dudes could learn to ride and roam the wide open spaces under the protective eye of a guide.
Virtually every state west of the Mississippi has at least one dude ranch. While no two are identical in the activities offered, they all share one thing--a lot of time will be spent on horseback. Novice riders will be given lessons, an appropriate mount will be provided, and a cowboy is born. Ranch hands will lead the dudes on trail rides of varying lengths, and many ranches offer the opportunity to spend two or three days riding the range and sleeping in the open. READ MORE...
Dude ranch vacations were born in the late 1800's, but they really began to become popular in the post-World War I years. Society became more mobile, thanks to the automobile, and economically, the times were good. The movies were a popular form of entertainment, and westerns were dominant in films, creating a desire among large numbers of people to visit the Wild West. The only problem was that the west had been tamed.
And so was born a new American tourist attraction--the dude ranch. For a few days, tenderfoots could become cowboys, but without the perils true cowboys had faced. In a structured environment, dudes could learn to ride and roam the wide open spaces under the protective eye of a guide.
Virtually every state west of the Mississippi has at least one dude ranch. While no two are identical in the activities offered, they all share one thing--a lot of time will be spent on horseback. Novice riders will be given lessons, an appropriate mount will be provided, and a cowboy is born. Ranch hands will lead the dudes on trail rides of varying lengths, and many ranches offer the opportunity to spend two or three days riding the range and sleeping in the open. READ MORE...
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Mothers Day Special at the Three Bars Ranch
The Three Bars Ranch posted this on their blog...just thought I would let you all know of this great special.
Still looking for that perfect Mothers Day gift? Book any summer package before May 9th and Mom’s stay is free. Yes, mom comes free! All moms love family trips, this year show mom how special she is by booking a family trip to Three Bars and as a special bonus to mom she travels free! Visit us online for all the special details!
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