Mountain Sky Guest Ranch Video

How to get all the Wranglers to spend their Saturday Night Playing Horseopoly with your Five-Year Old

This blog article came from Serena the "Sassy Chicago Mama"  that vacationed at the Covered Wagon Ranch this summer with her family. With her permission I am sharing it with you...enjoy... 

First of all, yes, there is a version of monopoly called “Horseopoly.” And no, you don’t need to rush out and buy it. Not only is it confusing, but the horses on the box look slightly demented and creepy. But when you are staying on a Dude Ranch in Montana and your 5-year-old son finds it in the game closet, you clearly need to play it.


What was surprising to me was that he somehow “wrangled” all the professional wranglers into playing it with him.

For those who don’t know what a wrangler is, let me explain–they are these fantastic people who spend their lives working outside and doing anything and everything that is needed for the horses. Which can consist of:

a) Feeding, cleaning, brushing, and exercising horses
b) Cleaning up their poop
c) Leading packs of people who say they have riding experience and really don’t on 3-hour riding trips in the mountains of Yellowstone

d) Tirelessly leading your 5-year-old around the ranch on “his” horse Joseph and insuring that Joseph wins the “horse race” (i.e. when the horses run up the mountain to take their Sunday pasture breaks) by personally riding and pushing him ahead of all the other horses that are probably 5 times younger AND faster than him.

Needless to say, those wranglers clearly need a break on Saturday nights. And yet, they stuck around after our communal dinner to play Horseopoly with us. How did G accomplish this, I wonder? I like to think it is because he is a good kid that people just like to hang around because they are so unaccustomed to 5-year-old children who don’t whine, throw tantrums, wear silly clothes with Disney characters on them, or glue themselves to some horrid hand-held video game. Or maybe because John and I are SO funny, we were the only entertainment those hard-working wranglers needed that night.

In reality, it is probably just because they are such good sports and secretly knew that ending our trip with a rousing game of Horseopoly with the wranglers would be the cherry on top of the sundae for G and that it would make his trip complete.

Which it did. 

So I thank you Boone, Erin, Chris, and Kirbee (who had to actually get up from the table and do her best galloping impression of a horse in order to not get sent to the “stable” or what us Monopoly players know as “jail) for making the last night of our stay memorable. I am positive it is not how you wanted to spend your night, but it is a night a little 5-year-old boy will remember forever.

And for those of you who have always dreamed of going to a Dude Ranch in Montana like I did, look no further: The Covered Wagon Ranch

We had the time of our lives and when I asked G if he would rather go back to (gulp) Disney World or come back to The Covered Wagon Ranch, he didn’t bat an eye and picked the ranch. So I guess one could say, “Go to The Covered Wagon Ranch! Children like it better than Disney World!”

Kids in Cowboy Action at the Latigo Ranch Colorado

LMR Outdoor Youth Adventures on Facebook

Lone Mountain Ranch Outdoor Youth Adventures (kids camp) is now on Facebook! This is the place to find out about our kids activities, adventures and cool happenings at Lone Mountain Ranch. A day in Lone Mountain Ranch’s Outdoor Youth Adventures may include canoeing, horseback riding, a kids rodeo, mountain biking, climbing wall, pony rides (under 6 years), pizza parties, high and low ropes, camping, backpacking, ice cream socials, archery, leather crafting and many other fun activities! We invite you and your family to “like” our page and learn more about the family fun at Lone Mountain Ranch!

Check it out!!!

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!! 

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...

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...

Mother's Day Brunch at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch

More information about Mother's Day Brunch at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch

Kay EL Bar Dude Ranch Guest Video

63 Ranch Celebrates 80 years of Dude Ranching!

The 63 Ranch, a dude and cattle ranch located in southwest Montana, will be celebrating their 80th season this summer 2010. The 63, still owned and operated by its original founding family, was the first dude ranch in Montana to be declared a National Historic Site and is not far from where the Dude Ranchers' Association was first organized in Bozeman, MT on September of 1926. Although not an official member of the association until 1936, the ranch ranks as one of the oldest member ranches still in operation today.


For over three-quarters of a century, the Christensen family has been in the business of creating memories that last a lifetime! Paul, Elmer and Johanna welcomed their first guests; three young men from Chicago, in 1930. Not unusual for the time, these first guests spent the entire summer at 63 before returning to Chicago to share their unforgettable experiences with others. The fact that relatively little has changed over the years continues to be the most popular topic of discussion among historical guests who return with the intention of sharing their own most memorable childhood experiences with younger generations. "It has always been about preserving the romance of the old west." adds Sandra Christensen.

In celebrating their significant milestone, The 63 Ranch is offering unique peak season vacation packages including 15% discounts for the weeks of July 4-11, 18-25 and August 8-15 with no added gratuities or service charges. Book the week of August 15-22 and one child 10 years or under stays for free! For availability, please contact: 63 Ranch at 1-888-395-5151, Vacations@63Ranch.com or visit http://www.sixtythree.com/

Boy Surprised With Dude Ranch Trip

COLUMBIA CITY, Ind., (WANE) - Seven-year-old Drew Sigler got the surprise of his life Thursday. After being kept in the back room of his family's Columbia City home part of the morning, Drew walked into the living room to find it full of family and friends.

He also found an important call waiting for him. It was Jerry Helmicki, owner of the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch in Parshall, Colorado with a message that Drew had won a week-long vacation to the resort in August.

"I'm very, very, very, very, very happy!" Drew told NewsChannel 15. READ MORE...


Drew Sigler and his family will be staying at the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch in Parshall, Colorado. Click here for more information on the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch

Article appeared on the Fort Wayne Indiana news website of www.wane.com. Written by Janice Allen.

DUDE RANCHES AND KIDS A GREAT COMBINATION!!

Making memories as a family is what a vacation should be all about. At an all inclusive dude or guest ranch vacation that is exactly what will happen. There is no standing in lines waiting for that 30 second ride the rides at a dude ranch vacation can last anywhere from 1 hour to all day. With the many different kids/teen programs you and your children are guaranteed a vacation that will be talked about for years to come.

The Vee Bar Guest Ranch located in Wyoming. Experience True Western Hospitality.

Ailing Florida girl experiences her dream on Colorado guest ranch

A dude ranch in Granby is making "Dreams Come True" this weekend for an 11-year-old Florida girl with a life-threatening illness.
Given her choice, Morgan Blackwell picked riding horseback in the Colorado snow for her dream-come- true. She browsed online and liked what she saw at The C Lazy U Guest Ranch & Resort.

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.

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.

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.

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 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...