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.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
“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
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
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
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 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.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
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.
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.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
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
"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
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
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!”
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.)
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.)
Friday, April 10, 2009
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
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
Guest Testimonial of the Week
Western Pleasure Guest Ranch
"We just got back from 4 days at the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch and the pleasure was all ours. What a wonderful place. Janice and Roley are gracious hosts, as are their two talented children. The lodge and cabin were beautiful and the food was terrific. The riding was outstanding. The wranglers led us through beautiful terrain on well-trained horses. We even got to try herding a few errant cows. My only complaint was that our stay was too short. We received the royal treatment and I can't wait to get back." -Beth
"We just got back from 4 days at the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch and the pleasure was all ours. What a wonderful place. Janice and Roley are gracious hosts, as are their two talented children. The lodge and cabin were beautiful and the food was terrific. The riding was outstanding. The wranglers led us through beautiful terrain on well-trained horses. We even got to try herding a few errant cows. My only complaint was that our stay was too short. We received the royal treatment and I can't wait to get back." -Beth
Friday, April 3, 2009
Guest Testimonial of the Week
We have just returned from our ninth visit to the Flying E Ranch where Ande and Steve Taylor work so successfully to provide the authentic western experience for all guests. We are now a party of over 25 American and English friends and family spread over three generations (aged from 80 to 2 years) who return each year to renew friendships in a true western setting; a perfect destination for the whole western experience. The riding is at all levels and always properly supervised. Herding and penning cattle are great fun for all ages especially in competitions with children against parents. Breakfast, lunch, and evening meals are sometimes taken out in the desert, and after dinner activities such as games and cowboy singing wind up a genuine western day. The atmosphere is established by Ande and Steve Taylor and their committed staff for whom nothing is too much trouble. They put their stamp of dedication to the guests's good time on everything. You arrive at first as a guest but leave as a firm friend. Big smiles, warm hearts, western sunsets, great food, friends and activities combine to make this as always an enjoyable experience worth crossing the world for. The best advert for their success is the continual return of old satisfied customers. This ranch and the managers' dedicated service is the best example of authentic western hospitality. We can't wait to return next year.
Michael and Felicity Byrne, Rainhill Merseyside England
Michael and Felicity Byrne, Rainhill Merseyside England
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